Top 4 Movie Filming Locations in Idaho

Sawtooth National Recreation Area (Featured in "Fandango," "Almost Famous," and "Dante's Peak")

Nestled in the heart of Idaho's rugged wilderness, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a breathtaking expanse of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and pristine forests that have captivated filmmakers for decades. This vast playground spanning 756,000 acres offers a dazzling array of landscapes, from the towering Sawtooth Mountains to the serene shores of Redfish Lake.

Visitors can retrace the steps of iconic films like "Fandango," where the awe-inspiring vistas served as the backdrop for a road trip adventure. The area's rugged terrain and untamed beauty also provided the perfect setting for the drama of "Dante's Peak" and the coming-of-age story of "Almost Famous."

To truly experience the Sawtooths, avid hikers can embark on the renowned Alice Lake Trail, a challenging yet rewarding trek that rewards with stunning alpine scenery. For a more leisurely experience, the Redfish Lake area offers ample opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking while basking in the grandeur of the surrounding peaks.

Wallace, Idaho (Featured in "Dante's Peak" and "Heaven's Gate")

Tucked away in the Panhandle of northern Idaho, Wallace is a quaint mining town that has served as the backdrop for several Hollywood productions, including the disaster thriller "Dante's Peak" and the controversial drama "Heaven's Gate."

With its historic downtown lined with Victorian-era buildings and the towering mountains looming in the distance, Wallace exudes a rugged charm that transports visitors back in time. Stroll along Cedar Street, where the storefronts and saloons served as film sets, or visit the Wallace District Mining Museum to delve into the town's rich mining heritage.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Hiawatha Trail offers a unique experience – a 15-mile trail built on an abandoned railroad grade, complete with trestles and tunnels carved through solid rock. Hiking or biking this scenic route provides a front-row seat to the area's natural splendor that has graced the silver screen.

Snake River (Featured in "Tuck Everlasting" and "River of No Return")

Winding its way through the heart of Idaho, the Snake River is a majestic waterway that has played a starring role in several Hollywood productions, including the fantasy film "Tuck Everlasting" and the adventure classic "River of No Return."

With its crystal-clear waters, dramatic canyons, and abundant wildlife, the Snake River offers a truly cinematic experience. Embark on a rafting or kayaking adventure to fully immerse yourself in the river's untamed beauty, or cast a line for world-class fishing opportunities.

For a bird's-eye view of the Snake River's grandeur, take a scenic drive along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, where you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the river carving its way through the rugged landscape. Stop at one of the many viewpoints to witness the awe-inspiring power of the waterfalls tumbling over the basalt cliffs.

Craters of the Moon National Monument (Featured in "Fandango" and "Starman")

Imagine a desolate, otherworldly landscape where jagged lava formations stretch as far as the eye can see – this is the Craters of the Moon National Monument, a geological wonder that has served as the backdrop for several science fiction and adventure films.

This vast expanse of basalt and cinder cones, sculpted by volcanic activity over millions of years, provided the perfect setting for the road trip adventure "Fandango" and the extraterrestrial drama "Starman." As you explore the park's network of hiking trails, you'll feel as though you've been transported to another planet, with the otherworldly formations and stark beauty surrounding you at every turn.

For a truly immersive experience, join one of the park's guided tours or attend a ranger-led program to learn about the area's fascinating geology and volcanic history. After dark, the monument's remote location offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities, allowing you to gaze upon the same celestial wonders that have captivated filmmakers and audiences alike.

Idaho's rugged landscapes and untamed wilderness have long been a siren call for filmmakers seeking the perfect backdrop for their cinematic visions. From towering mountain ranges to rushing rivers and otherworldly geological formations, this state offers a diverse array of natural wonders that have graced the silver screen time and time again.

Whether you're a movie buff seeking to retrace the steps of your favorite films or an outdoor enthusiast drawn to Idaho's breathtaking scenery, this guide will take you on a journey through the state's most iconic filming locations. Prepare to be transported to worlds both familiar and fantastical, where the line between reality and Hollywood magic blurs, creating an unforgettable experience for all who venture forth.