Steal my Vegas to Boise, Idaho Road Trip Itinerary
From Las Vegas to Boise: My 5-Day Road Trip Through the West
There’s something about hitting the open road that never gets old. This time, I took a five-day road trip from Las Vegas to Boise, Idaho, chasing scenic drives, mountain air, and all the unexpected beauty in between.
The route took me through quiet desert highways, rugged canyons, and eventually into some of the most stunning alpine scenery I’ve ever seen — the kind of places that remind you how wild and underrated this part of the country really is.
If you’re planning a drive through Nevada and Idaho, or just looking for ideas for your next mountain getaway, this itinerary has all the best stops, campsites, and must-see spots — plus everything pinned on my custom Google Maps so you can plan your own route with ease.
Selecting Your Road Trip Vehicle
Planning a Nevada to Idaho road trip? Whether you’re sticking to this itinerary or creating your own, choosing the right vehicle is key to making the most of your adventure. Since public transportation options are limited outside the major cities in these states, having your own set of wheels is essential.
Step 1: Decide Your Route and Accommodations
Once you have a general idea of your road trip itinerary or driving route, it’s time to think about accommodations. Both Nevada and Idaho are known for their incredible outdoor adventures and accessible camping options, so camping is often the best bet. If you’re using a personal car or renting one, you’ll need to bring or rent camping gear.
If camping isn’t your thing, you can find accommodations along the way.
However, keep in mind that some areas are pretty remote, and many of the lodging options might feel like stepping back in time – not necessarily a bad thing if you’re looking for charm and character!
Step 2: Consider a Campervan
For the ultimate flexibility and comfort, I recommend renting either a campervan or an RV Share. It’s the perfect way to explore Nevada and Idaho because it combines your transportation and accommodations in one. With a campervan, you’ll have a cozy bed, storage, a sink, and even heat – basically, all the comforts of home on wheels. Plus, you won’t have to worry about setting up or packing down gear every night.
Another big win? Some campervan rental companies offer one-way rentals, so you can pick up your van in one location and drop it off in another (usually for an extra fee). This means more time exploring and less time backtracking!
My Campervan Recommendation
For this trip, I used Wandervans, a U.S.- based campervan company headquartered in Boise, Idaho—making it an ideal choice for a Nevada to Idaho road trip.
Wandervans offer one-way rentals, so you can pick up in Boise and drop off elsewhere (or vice versa). If you’re planning to explore just Idaho, you can easily start and end your trip in Boise, which is super convenient.
Steal My Itinerary
Starting Your Road Trip in Vegas
Why Vegas?
There were a few reasons I chose Las Vegas as the starting point for my road trip to Boise. While my main goal was to explore Idaho, I found that flights into Vegas were way cheaper than flying into Boise. Plus, I realized I’d never really explored much of Nevada, and let’s be real, you need a good reason to drive through Nevada’s vast open landscapes. This road trip was the perfect excuse!
And let’s not forget, Vegas is amazing. It’s one of those places where you can find anything you’re into. From gambling and world-class shows to incredible restaurants and nightlife, Vegas has it all.
Not a fan of the typical Vegas vibe? No problem, there’s also plenty of outdoor adventures nearby, like The Valley of Fire or hiking in the surrounding desert.
If you’re planning a road trip, spending a night or two in Vegas is the ultimate way to kick things off, or wrap it up with a bang.
Picking Up The Campervan
This was my first time renting a campervan, and since I was doing it solo, I was a little nervous about the whole experience. But honestly? It went way smoother than I expected!
Wandervan partners with outdoor enthusiasts to provide pick-up locations in areas where they don’t have headquarters, so I Ubered from the Vegas Strip to a quiet residential area where my van was ready and waiting. A few days before pick-up, they sent detailed instructions, which made the whole process super straightforward. I got familiar with the van, checked out all its features, and hit the road feeling totally prepared.
Pro Tip: Before you leave Vegas, make your first stop at a grocery store. Once you’re out of the area, options are slim. Stock up on food, drinks, snacks, and essentials like propane (depending on your cooking system), paper towels, utensils, paper plates, and trash bags.
Take a quick inventory of the van’s supplies before you head inside, and if you can, make a packing list before your trip—it’ll save you so much time and stress.
Discovering Nevada’s Hidden Gems
Exploring Cathedral Gorge State Park, Nevada
If you’re planning a Nevada road trip, add Cathedral Gorge State Park to your itinerary! Located about 2.5 hours north of Las Vegas, this small but stunning state park is a must-see for its one-of-a-kind scenery. The park’s unique rock formations, made of soft bentonite clay shaped by volcanic activity and an ancient lake bed, make it feel like stepping onto another planet.
What to Do: Cathedral Gorge might be small, but it packs a punch. Don’t miss:
- Miller Point Trail: A short but rewarding hike with sweeping views of the gorge.
- Moon Caves: A maze of narrow slot canyons and otherworldly formations—perfect for exploring and snapping some epic photos.
Where to Sleep
If you have the time, this is one of those parks where camping is so worth it. The campground has 22 sites, each with a table, grill, and shade ramada, plus electric hookups if needed. Year-round water and flush restrooms with showers make it super convenient, so you can focus on soaking up the desert vibes.
Passing Through Great Basin National Park
If you’re driving up the 93, you’ll pass the exit for Great Basin National Park. This park is pretty remote, so this might be your one and only chance to check it out.
While I didn’t have time to stop during my road trip, the park is known for its ancient bristlecone pines (some of the oldest trees in the world), the incredible Lehman Caves, and being one of the best stargazing spots in Nevada. The night skies here are legendary, thanks to the park’s lack of light pollution. If you’re into camping, this is a prime spot to pitch a tent and experience the stars like never before.
Exploring the Ward Charcoal Ovens in Nevada
If you’re a fan of quirky roadside stops, add Ward Charcoal Ovens in Nevada to your list! Located just 20 miles south of Ely along the Great Basin Highway and the Loneliest Road in America, these 30-foot-tall, beehive-shaped kilns are a fascinating piece of history. Built in the 1870s during the mining boom, they’re some of the best-preserved historical landmarks in Nevada, and rumor has it they were once hideouts for stagecoach bandits.
I initially stopped by because, let’s be real, they looked super cool in photos. And they totally lived up to the hype. If you’re passing through Ely, it’s a quick detour, and since there’s not much else out this way, it’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and take in the fresh air.
A couple of things to note: You’ll need to drive down a long dirt road to get there, but it’s well-maintained, so no stress. There’s also no cell service, and you’re pretty much in the middle of nowhere, so plan accordingly.
Fun fact: I didn’t hear about the bandit hideout rumors until after my visit. As a solo female traveler, maybe I wouldn’t head back at night, knowing that, haha. But during the day, it’s an easy, unique stop that gives you a glimpse into Nevada’s mining past!
Lamoille Canyon & Ruby Valley Hot Springs
If I had the chance to swing back through, Lamoille Canyon would be at the top of my list. This gem in the Ruby Mountains is especially stunning in the fall when the leaves are turning golden and the crisp air makes every hike feel extra refreshing. The canyon is full of scenic trails, like the Castle Lake Trail or the more challenging Solider Lakes Basin, both offering jaw-dropping mountain views. I’ve heard the wildflowers in summer are incredible too, but fall foliage here is a whole other level.
Another spot I wish I could’ve squeezed into my itinerary is Ruby Valley Hot Springs. Tucked away in a remote part of Nevada, these natural hot springs are perfect for relaxing after a day of driving or hiking.So
Exploring Idaho’s Natural Beauty
Twin Falls: Shoshone Falls & Perrine Coulee Falls
First stop in Idaho, Twin Falls should be on everyone’s list.
My main goal here was Shoshone Falls, but I learned the hard way that it’s fed by a dam. Depending on the time of year, they actually stop releasing water, which means some of the water activities are closed, and in my case, I didn’t even get to access the viewpoint. Definitely a bummer, but it’s given me a reason to come back.
The silver lining? Perrine Coulee Falls. This gorgeous waterfall is right in town and literally off the side of the road, making it the perfect quick stop. If you have the time, you can hike the full loop for a longer adventure, but even a short visit is totally worth it. This is also a good chance to refuel in town, grab supplies, and stock up on food before hitting the next part of your journey.
Where next? You have some options...
After leaving Twin Falls, your route up to the Sawtooth Wilderness or Stanley can be shaped however you want, and there are some amazing spots worth adding to your road trip. Since I was on a tighter timeline, I went straight to Sawtooth to camp, but if you have the flexibility, you could easily detour to some incredible hot springs or natural wonders along the way.
Places like Blue Heart Springs for a some paddle boarding, Craters of the Moon, or other hidden gems are all worth a stop. I’ve pinned all of these on my custom Google Map of Idaho, so you can see exactly where each one is and plan your own route without missing a thing.
Sawtooth National Forest
Sawtooth National Forest is a must for Idaho outdoor adventures. For hiking, some standout trails include the Alice Lake Trail for stunning alpine lakes, the Redfish Lake Loop for a moderate forested hike with lake views, and Sawtooth Lake via Iron Creek if you’re up for a longer trek with jaw-dropping scenery.
Camping here is a dream for any outdoors enthusiast. Redfish Lake Campground and Glacier View Campground are both well-maintained and don’t always require reservations, making it easy to find a spot even on short notice.
Dispersed camping is also common throughout the forest if you want a more secluded experience. Spending time here is all about hiking the trails, snapping photos of iconic peaks and lakes, and enjoying the peace of the forest under the stars.
Stanley, Idaho
Welcome to Stanley
I absolutely loved Stanley and would tell any outdoorsy traveler not to miss it. This town looks like a postcard. While Stanley itself is tiny, there’s no shortage of things to do. As a hot springs girly, I spent my time hopping between the natural springs in the area, but the options don’t stop there. Stanley is also perfect for fishing, hunting, hiking, or just relaxing and soaking in the views.
A Hot Spring Haven
If you’re a fan of natural hot springs, Stanley is paradise. There are a few standout spots that are easy to access and totally worth your time:
Sunbeam Hot Springs – Free and right along the Salmon River. The water is warm and relaxing, and the surrounding views are incredible.
Cove Creek Hot Springs – Another free gem, tucked into a quiet spot along the river. Perfect for a morning soak before hitting the trails.
Boat Box Hot Springs – Also free, and just a short walk from the parking area. Early arrival is key here since these springs are small and popular.
Sitting in any of these hot springs, with the cold Salmon River rushing nearby, honestly felt like a little slice of heaven.
For a more private experience, check out Mountain Village Hot Springs. These are paid (around $50 per soak for two people) and require a reservation, but they’re well worth it if you want a more curated experience with additional amenities.
All of these are pinned on my custom Idaho Google Map, so you can easily plan your route and know exactly where to go.
Stanley, Lake
Just outside of town, Stanley Lake is one of the most peaceful spots in the area and a must for anyone who loves being outdoors. You can spend the day kayaking across the glassy water, fishing along the shoreline, or just relaxing and soaking in the Sawtooth peaks reflecting off the lake.
Kirkham Hot Springs
If there’s one place you absolutely have to stop on your way to Boise, it’s Kirkham Hot Springs. Known for being some of the best hot springs in Idaho, this spot is a must for any road trip through the area. I got super lucky when I visited—the parking lot was under construction, so it was surprisingly quiet, but I don’t think that’s the norm. Usually, these springs are pretty popular, and for good reason.
There are several pools to choose from, each with different temperatures, all tucked along the river with steam rising into the mountain air. I’d recommend wearing water shoes, since the rocks can get a little slippery, and giving yourself a few hours here to really relax and hop between the different springs.
Ending in Boise, Idaho
Boise was my final stop on this road trip, and I wish I’d had more time to explore. I dropped off my campervan at Wandervans, which is conveniently based right in Boise, and headed straight to the airport.
From what I’ve seen (and heard from locals), Boise has an amazing mix of outdoor access, local restaurants, and that friendly small-city energy Idaho is known for. It’s definitely on my list to come back and experience more of next time.
I drove from Las Vegas to Boise, Idaho in five days — and if I could do it again, here’s what I’d change.
I’d either drive fewer miles each day (which means adding a few extra days — definitely my preferred option) or skip Nevada altogether and spend the entire trip exploring Idaho instead.
I’d plan a little earlier too — I didn’t realize until it was too late that Shoshone Falls closes and most activities there pause during certain seasons.
Next time, I’d spend more time by the river — fishing, soaking in hot springs, and just relaxing. I’d also leave more time for hiking in the Sawtooth Wilderness and spend a full day in Stanley, because it’s way more amazing than I ever expected.
And honestly? I’d bring someone with me. Idaho’s beauty is something you’ll want to share with someone — every turn, every mountain view, every quiet moment by the water.