Idaho
Give Idaho some credit, it's not all about potatoes (or soy beans), like it's Eastern and Western neighbors, Idaho is chock full of amazing natural beauty. Hiking, Fishing, Skiing, Boating and nature are all abundant.
Lake Pend Oreille.
I have a friend (who may or may not read this blog) Who hiked thousands of miles up the Pacific Northwest, The Rocky Mountains , The Cabinet and The Bitteroot Mountains. I'm positive there are others as well. One year he moved to Eastern Washington. He constantly posts images of Lake Pend Orielle. From the wildlife, to his winter shots of the lake, I have been captivated. While I've not been here in person, I have this idea that the lake is one of those magical, heavenly fog covered places. It's shores are mostly uninhabited and there is an access point. The area boasts trails for hiking, ample fishing and camping.
More info : http://www.visitidaho.org/attraction/lakes-rivers/lake-pend-oreille/
More info : http://www.visitidaho.org/attraction/lakes-rivers/lake-pend-oreille/
Old Mission State Park.
Settled atop a hill to the south of interstate 90 is the Sacred Heart Mission, it's beautiful Spanish colors set boldly among the green valley it overlooks. More Information: http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/coeur-d-alenes-old-mission
Mesa Falls.
Located in the Targhee Forest in Eastern Idaho, Mesa Falls is a stunning view for any kind of traveler or tourist. The two sets of falls boast a 115 foot upper falls area and a 65 foot Lower falls. if you find yourself on highway 47 near Ashton, be sure to not miss these gorgeous works of nature!
More Information:http://www.visitidaho.org/attraction/waterfall/mesa-falls/
More Information:http://www.visitidaho.org/attraction/waterfall/mesa-falls/
Washington
Thorp Fruit
It's not natural, well, maybe it is. Thorp fruit is a highway attraction fruit market in Thorp Washington. But it's not just fruit! Make sure to try the massive variety of salt water taffy. Located on US I-90 just west of Ellensburg at the Thorp Exit.
Mt Baker Highway.
Leaving Seattle and heading East. Get off of 90 and take your time for a drive from ocean overlooks in Bellingham , past sweeping meadows of Heather and through the beautiful Baker-Snoqualmie forest. It's worth the out of the way drive but be sure to fuel up before your adventure and make sure to pack a lunch!
Snoqualmie Falls
Located between Snoqualmie and Fall City, Snoqualmie Falls is 270 feet of stunning views.
More information:http://www.snoqualmiefalls.com/
More information:http://www.snoqualmiefalls.com/
Montana
Lewis and Clark Trail and Interpretative Center
History buff? Check out this knowledge filled interactive museum sitting in the heart of Central Montana (Great Falls) . Lewis and Clark discovered the Falls from which the town gets it's name. The community also boasts many historical museums such as the Russel Museum (Charlie Russell artwork and history), The Great Falls History Museum and The First People's Buffalo Jump near Ulm, MT, which highlights a 13 foot deep bone graveyard from the American Bison hunted by the First People.
Crown Butte Reserve.
This largely undisturbed reserve is one of Central Montana's best kept secrets. Stunning views and a great hike make it a must see. But be aware, you'll want to go in the cooler months as the summer is full of Rattle snakes!
More Info: http://visitmt.com/listings/general/wildlife-refuge/crown-butte-preserve.html
More Info: http://visitmt.com/listings/general/wildlife-refuge/crown-butte-preserve.html
Lewis and Clark Caverns (Whitehall)
If you find yourself heading to Yellowstone, or east on I-90 near Whitehall Montana, be sure to stop and check out the Lewis and Clark caverns! These are Stalactite caverns filled with wonders and maybe an occasional bat. But well worth seeing! More Info: http://stateparks.mt.gov/lewis-and-clark-caverns
Oregon
Crater Lake
One of the more popular Oregon attractions is Crater Lake. A beautiful Caldera formed lake with Wizard island as a crowning treat. More Info:
Timberline Lodge, MT Hood
A total two for one. Timberline Lodge is located on Portlands own onlooker, Mt Hood, we may or may not slip in that Timberline happened to play a very important role in the cult horror classic "The Shining" . While your there take in the abundance of outdoor awesomeness that is Mt. Hood.
International Rose Test Garden
It's no secret one of Portlands many nicknames includes Rose City (City of Roses), and it's not hard to see why, the city is home to a huge assortment of them. One of the best places to view them is the Rose Test Gardens in Western Portland. But While your there, you're right near the Japanese Gardens and the Oregon Zoo. Take a day to see it all!