Travel Guide

Hunting and fishing in the Lost River Idaho area is a favorite attraction for many. Anglers are drawn to the populations of rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout, as well as mountain whitefish. For hunters, the surrounding ranges have big game such as mule deer, elk, and pronghorn. 

Mackay has earned its nickname as the “ATV Capital of Idaho.” From right in town, riders can legally access hundreds of miles of interconnected trails and backcountry roads, making it easy to ride straight from your lodging to the mountains without trailering. 

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve features vast fields of hardened lava, cinder cones, and rugged basalt formations. Visitors can explore the monument via a drive or hiking trails. 

White Knob is one of the best Idaho ghost towns, allowing visitors to explore remnants of its mining history, including wooden structures, mining equipment, and interpretive signs that highlight the town's past. White Knob is typically accessed via ATV or high-clearance vehicle routes. 

Golfing in Mackay offers a relaxed and scenic experience for golfers of all skill levels. The local favorite, River Park Golf Course, is a charming nine-hole course known for its laid-back atmosphere, affordability, wide-open fairways, and beautiful views. 

Housed in a historic building, the museum showcases a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the Lost River Valley. Displays also highlight industries like sheep herding and moonshine production as part of the area's historic past. 

The creek serves as the heart of the popular Lower Cedar Creek Falls Trail, a roughly 3‑mile out‑and‑back hike that follows the water past an early‑20th‑century hydroelectric plant site, and up to a striking “hole in the wall” waterfall that pours through a narrow cliff opening.

Mackay Reservoir offers a peaceful setting for fishing, boating, and picnicking. It is well-stocked with rainbow trout and other game fish which attracts anglers from all over. It also appeals to kayakers, canoeists, paddleboarders, picknickers, wildlife spotters, and nature enthusiasts. 

The Big Lost River and the Pioneer Mountains are connected features of Idaho’s landscape. Their combination supports outdoor activities such as fishing and rafting on the river to hiking, wildlife viewing, and peak bagging in the mountains.