Idaho’s Harriman State Park and Wildlife Refuge
Located in eastern Idaho just 38 miles from Yellowstone National Park, Harriman State Park offers many of the same natural wonders and wildlife viewing opportunities as its larger cousin, but with smaller crowds and lower entry fees.
Harriman State Park rests on a 16,000-acre wildlife refuge that’s part of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem and plays home to moose, trumpeter swans and many other memorable animals.
Hit the Hiking Trail
If hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding is your activity of choice, Harriman has options for you. The park offers 22 miles of trail that span meadowlands, wooded forests and riverbanks.
Henry’s Fork Fly Fishing
Known as one of the best fly-fishing streams in the nation, the Henrys Fork meanders for 8 miles through Harriman. More than 20 miles of trails are available for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-county skiing, and the park offers guided walks, too.
Wildlife Watching in Harriman Park
Moved to see a moose? Spurred to watch a trumpeter swan? Excited to view elk? Harriman is home to each of these species and more.
Harriman in the Winter
Those headed to Harriman during the winter months can try their hand at cross-country skiing. If you’re out on a weekend, zip over to the warming hut for great views of Henrys Fork and (hopefully) some wildlife.
Want to visit Mesa Falls? Unfortunately, Scenic Byway 47 isn’t open to vehicles during the snowy Idaho winter, but the road is groomed for snowmobiles and cross-country skis. Park at Bear Gulch on Highway 47 east of Ashton and ski or snowmobile the 5 miles to Mesa Falls. Take caution though. The path down to the falls is likely to be snowy and icy.
Overnight Camping and Lodging Options
Harriman State Park offers a wide range of housing options for overnight visits. Ranging from the Railroad Ranch Dormitory/Dining Hall, which can house up to 40 people, to the more intimate three-bedroom Cattle Foreman’s House, the options are equipped for groups, conferences, weddings, retreats and experiential learning opportunities. Want to try something really unique? Stay in a Harriman Yurt. Located near Silver Lake, two of these Mongolian-style domed tents are available to overnighters.
With 65 RV parks and campgrounds nearby, try setting up camp in eastern Idaho outside of the park. For a free Idaho campground directory, call (800) 847-4843 or go to rvidaho.org.
Motor Vehicle Entry Fee: $5 per vehicle