Sites and Scenery

Island Park is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and fun getaway. There are so many things to do and see in Island Park as well as in the surrounding area. It is known for its scenic beauty and its prime location for those looking to have any kind of fun. Here are some excellent selections of things to do if you are looking to have a good time, experience new things, and see amazing sights.

Big Jud’s Country Diner

American burgers, fresh cut fries, and delicious ice-cream are what make Big Jud’s a real treat. They are very kid friendly to those traveling families looking for a good meal for all and friendly all around for anyone interested in tasty American food. Located in Ashton, Big Jud’s is famous for their burger and ice-cream challenges. Visit their restaurant for more information on their food challenges and for a good time.

Phone: (208) 652-7806
Hours: Open Monday – Saturday from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Address: 1370 Hwy 20 Ashton, ID 83420

Big Springs and Johnny Sack Cabin

Producing over 120 million gallons of water each day, Big Springs a Natural National Landmark, is one of the 40 largest natural springs in the world. It clear, cool water is home to many animals including moose, muskrat, rainbow trout, ducks, and more. Come view this picturesque spot where you can feed the large rainbow trout and visit Johnny Sack’s cabin. Johnny Sack’s cabin and nearby water-wheel located in Big Springs, Island Park have long been one of the most photographed sites in Island Park. The cabin attracts thousands of visitors each summer interested in the log and stone structure as well as the building’s colorful creator. The cabin is open to the public from mid-June through mid-September, and visitors are invited to visit and see firsthand the unique craftsmanship of one of Island Park’s early settlers.

Earthquake Lake – “Quake Lake”

What do you get when an Earthquake and water combine? Earthquake Lake, or “Quake Lake” as most people would refer to this amazing area of Island Park. In 1959, Yellowstone experienced an earthquake measuring 7.3 – 7.5 on the Richter scale. Due to the magnitude of the earthquake, a huge landslide occurred cutting off the waters outflow through the Madison River, thus creating Quake Lake. Today, people from all over the world enjoy kayaking, fishing, boating, white water rafting, and camping at the Lake. Come take a look at this incredible, natural phenomenon and stop by the Earthquake Lake visitors center to learn more about its history and other seismic activity going on in the region.

Island Park Reservoir

Island Park Reservoir is a great place to visit for those who enjoy breath taking scenery as well as fishing off the banks of its waters. It is most popular for its fishing and contains rainbow trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee and whitefish. Fuel, parking and docks are all available for your convenience as you spend time enjoying the beauty and fishing of Island Park Reservoir.

Mack’s Inn Playhouse

Located in the heart of Island Park, the theatre at Mack’s Inn has become a family tradition for many. Formerly Mack’s Inn Dinner Theatre, the Mack’s Inn Playhouse has launched into a new direction offering fresh family musical parodies. Please enjoy a night full of fun, great food and laughter. (You may choose dinner and a show or the show only.)

Phone: (208) 558-7871
Hours: The Mack’s Inn Playhouse is open during the summer months. Give them a call for more information or visit their website: http://www.macksinnplayhouse.com
Address: Located just off Hwy 20 in Island Park, ID 83433

Playmill Theatre

The Playmill Theatre has been around for 50 years and has a history of providing fun, family entertainment for those looking for live performances. They are a popular go to place in West Yellowstone performing plays and musicals starting in May and ending in August. Every season they switch up their cast, comprised of promising young artists, as well as their shows offering different choices for those that enjoy coming back year after year. (For information about performances and ticket prices, visit www.playmill.com.)

St. Anthony Sand Dunes

If you are into dirt bike riding, dune buggies, four-wheelers, or any other ATV with wheels and an engine, the St. Anthony Sand Dunes is the place to be. These world famous white quartz sand dunes were created by the winds in Idaho carrying sand from nearby  river beds. With sand dunes up to 400 feet high and spanning about 11,000 acres, this is the ultimate playground for any off-roader.  http://www.duneguide.com/sand_dune_guide_st_anthony.htm

Yellowstone Bear World: Drive-thru wildlife park

Yellowstone Bear World is a drive-through wildlife park like no other in the Yellowstone Region. Here the animals roam freely in their natural habitat while you view them from the comfort and safety of your vehicle or RV. The wildlife you will encounter include the Rocky Mountain Elk, Bison, Mountain Goats, Mule Deer, White-Tail Deer, Moose and of course American Black Bears, Grizzly Bears and Gray Wolves. Other exciting experiences and adventures to be had at Yellowstone Bear World include bottle-feeding bear cubs, the curator tour (which also includes feeding other animals), the petting zoo, and amusement rides for kids. It is the perfect place to get up close to live animals with your family and is guaranteed to give you a smile and a happy memory for the whole family.

Phone: (208) 359-9688 or visit www.yellowstonebearworld.com
Hours: Open Daily at 9:00 a.m. from mid-May till mid-October
Address: 6010 South 4300 West Rexburg, Idaho 83440

Yellowstone Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is an AZA Accredited, Not-for-Profit Wildlife Park and Educational Facility open year round. Its main purpose is to help visitors gain knowledge about grizzlies and wolves through educational programs. Visitors can spend their time watching these fascinating animals interact in their outdoor habitats. The Center offers a variety of different programs and activities for the whole family. (For more information, visit www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org)

VIRGINIA CITY, MONTANA

Virginia City and Nevada City lie along Alder Gulch about one mile apart, the site of the richest placer gold strike in the Rocky Mountains with an estimate total value of 100 million dollars throughout the 18th and 19th century. In the early 1860s, during the first three seasons, an estimated $30 million worth of gold was removed from the gulch. Stay the night in homey historic lodging, ride the train, pan for gold, attend a live theater show, shop in unique gift and specialty shops and enjoy fine dining and old-fashioned candy shop goods.

HARRIMAN STATE PARK

Owned by Union Pacific Railroad investors from 1902 to 1977, the park acreage served as a cattle ranch and private retreat for the Harriman and Guggenheim families. Today, Harriman State Park provides visitors a perfect setting to enjoy the unique history and natural beauty of the area.  Horse rental also at this location.