Things to do in Island Park

Upper and Lower Mesa Falls

Mesa Falls is split into two sections, Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. The Upper is fabulous, you don’t want to miss it. After parking at the trailhead, walk over to the small Visitor Center. Inside you’ll find rangers, information, and restrooms. A short walk from the visitor center is an easy, short (.6-m round trip) trail that leads down to the viewing platform for a closer look at the Upper Mesa Falls.

Lower Mesa Falls is just a mile or two up the road. There is a pullout with an overlook and you see the cascade from there. The waterfall is large and impressive, but it is very far away from this viewpoint.

Take in the crystal clear water and feed the trout at Big Springs on your way to Johnny Sack's historic log cabin. 

Big Springs and johnny sack cabin

Sawtell Peak scenic drive

The Sawtell Peak Scenic Drive is a short, twelve-mile route that climbs to the top of the 9875-foot summit of Sawtell Peak. Don’t miss the incredible views of the Island Park Caldera, nearby Yellowstone National Park, Island Park Reservoir, and Henrys Lake.

If you are heading into Island Park on Highway 20 from the north, take a right onto Sawtelle Road. It’s about 13 miles to the top of the mountain.

Watch for ATVs and drive slowly. The Sawtell Peak Road is closed between November 1st and June 1st.

visit Yellowstone national park

 

Take in the crystal clear water and feed the trout at Big Springs on your way to Johnny Sack's historic log cabin. 

Big Springs produces 120 million gallons of water per day. The crystal clear pools are filled with trout. A paved trail leads to historic Johnny Sack's cabin, which is open for tours during the summer.

Park in the paved lot to the north of the wooden bridge. From the bridge, continue south and follow the signs for Johnny Sack's Cabin (open in the summer from 10:00 to 4:00). Keep an eye out for waterfowl and minx.

Hiking trails in Island Park

Coffee Pot Rapids Trail

Big Springs Lookout Tower

Sheep Falls

Johnny Sack Cabin

Big Springs Interpretive Trail

Targhee Creek Trail

Box Canyon Campground to Rosie’s Observation Point


Fishing

The Henry’s Fork is one of the most famous trout streams in the lower 48. Public access is plentiful. Fishing is year-round for coho salmon, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, bluegill, and yellow perch.

Island Park Reservoir is a beautiful, large reservoir along the Henry’s Fork that is stocked with rainbow trout and kokanee. Explore 60 miles of shoreline from a boat or fish from the bank during spring and fall. The elevation is 6,300 feet above sea level. Winter offers ice fishing once the ice is safe.

Box Canyon is a 3.5 mile stretch of river and produces some of the best fishing. This fast flowing section is primarily nymphing water due to an abundant food supply consisting primarily of stonefly nymphs.

Watch a show at the yellowstone playhouse

Yellowstone Playhouse is a family-friendly dinner theater featuring live musical comedy. Their calendar fills up quickly, so don’t hesitate to make reservations.

Groceries

Sam Patch

4150 N Big Springs Loop

(208) 558-7440

Horseback Riding

Outfitters and Guides:

Eagle Ridge Ranch

The Diamond P Ranch

Dry Ridge Outfitters

Paradise Adventure Company

Visit one of America’s most loved National Parks, known for it’s striking views and abundant wildlife. View geysers, hot pools, mud pots, alpine lakes, and more. Photograph waterfalls, vistas, bison, bears, moose, and more.

Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park has something for everyone, including mountain biking, hiking, fishing, birding, horseback riding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing. Opportunities to view moose, elk, trumpeter swans, and waterfowl are abundant.

Hiking trails in Harriman State Park:

  • River Trail and Ranch Loop. Easy

  • Ranch Loop. Easy

  • Golden Lake Loop. Moderate

  • Harriman Ridge Trail Loop. Moderate

  • Thurman Creek and Meadow Loop. Moderate

  • Thurman Creek Inner Loop

  • John Muir Trail

  • Silver Lake Trail and Thurmon Creek Loop

Restaurants

Connie’s Restaurant

4130 Quakie Lane, Island Park, Idaho

(208) 558-6987

Cafe Sabor

4298 US Highway 20, Island Park, Idaho

(208) 558-9300

Lakeside Lodge

3857 Lakeside Lodge Lane, Island Park, Idaho

(208) 558-9770

Last Chance Bar & Grill

3227 N Highway 20, Island Park, ID

(208) 558-8006

Pond’s Lodge

3757 US Highway 20, Island Park, ID

(208) 558-7221