Most of our visitors come to see Yellowstone National Park, and everyone should see Yellowstone it is the main attraction for a reason. There is nothing like it in the world. Yellowstone National Park What many don't realize is Island Park, ID is a hidden gem. We are surrounded by some of the most world renowned scenic site and we have world class recreation year around. I am in love with our beautiful small community.
A day adventure in Island Park...
Island Park is considered to be a paradise for lovers of the outdoors in Idaho. Located within close proximity to Yellowstone National Park, there are numerous things to do in the area, including activities in both summer and winter. With outdoor activities abound in Island Park, visitors can find opportunities for mountain biking, horseback riding, fly fishing, canoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and much more. One of the state’s best kept secrets, Island Park’s historic landscape is home to a variety of outdoor adventures, as well as natural scenery that’s worth bringing a camera for. Be sure to call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.
One of the Snake River’s headwaters, Big Springs near Island Park, Idaho is a large spring that features a massive volume of gushing crystal clear waters. There are two things that Big Springs is known best for. The first one is Johnny Sacks cabin and the second is the large trout that can be seen from the bridge over the springs. While the springs are known for the huge rainbow trout, fishing isn’t permitted. A particularly popular place during the summer months, facilities around Big Springs include a picnic area, walking trails that include a handicap-accessible trail, camping areas, and parking.
Situated at Big Springs, the Johnny Sack Cabin can be found in Island Park, Idaho approximately five miles to the east of Mack’s Inn along Highway 20. Visitors can reach the one-of-a-kind cabin by way of a paved, short walking path that starts at the Big Springs campground. The unique furnishings, construction, and location of the cabin offers an interesting visit. Part of what makes Johnny Sack’s craftsmanship unique is his use of bark in the cabin’s details, as well as the furniture inside, giving color and creative texture to ceiling lamps, wall panels, beds, desks, chairs, and more.
When given the opportunity, our small town thrives on tourism so please support local when you can. You won't find chains here, but most of our beautiful community is local, hardworking small town folks. TRR Outfitters is a family-owned and operated outfitting company run by Three Rivers Ranch in the town of Island Park, Idaho. For almost one hundred years, TRR has been providing top quality resources, education, and gear to anglers, as well as guided fishing trips and lodging in Idaho, Yellowstone National Park, Oregon, and Montana. TRR Outfitters operates a full-service fly fishing shop on the banks of Snake River’s Henry's Fork, where anglers can find a full selection of fly fishing gear. In addition to all manner of fly fishing equipment, the store also carries some supplies for camping.
Recently, we drove as a family up to the top of Sawtelle Peak. It was breath taking and beautiful, and honestly very high up, but so worth the climb in the ATV. The Peak is at an elevation of 9,866 feet so be prepared for sudden changes in the weather and chilly, windy weather even during the summer months.
You can either drive up your personal vehicle or take rented ATV to the top. We opted for the later and rode to the top in our open-air ATV. The road (during the summer months) is really well maintained and we saw trucks and cars alike handle the road just fine.
“The Sawtell Peak Scenic Drive is a short, twelve-mile route that climbs to the top of the 9875-foot summit of Sawtell Peak. The route follows a well-conditioned gravel road, called Sawtell Peak Road, between the town of Island Park, Idaho, and Sawtell Summit.” -Bigskyfishing.com
What we loved about our ride was that it was so safe, anybody can feel comfortable riding one, and it created a lasting memory that we will have forever. Polaris Adventures have so many different locations scattered through the U.S. but the location in Island Park is called High Mountain Adventures.
