Embrace the Chill
The Snow Geese are starting to arrive and we know what that means. Colder temps are coming soon! A lot of us are drawn to hibernate during this season and we say absolutely! Our cozy rooms, salt water hot tub, and next door restaurant have you covered. But also, if you’re a rebel and want to still explore, Hagerman has milder temps to keep you occupied.
We guarantee you’ll find rest and relaxation during your stay with us. We can be your bear cave away from home for the weekend. While you’re catching up on the zz’s, here are a few things to occupy your time (if you’re feeling adventurous).
1. Yoga at Banbury
There’s nothing like warming up after a day in the snow by taking a dip in silky-smooth, naturally heated water. Get even looser, with special water yoga at Banbury Hot Springs. Only open for limited stretches, it’s a great way to experience this hot spring and stretch out all of those 2025 cramps. Miracle Hot Springs and 1000 Springs are also a wonderful way to enjoy the area’s unique hot spring water.
2. Bird Watching
Hagerman is located along a migration trail for many types of birds. The Snake River, wildlife sanctuaries and open fields, make Hagerman a known spot for bird watching. Close to the famed Eagle Tree, onlookers can sometimes catch hundreds of Bald Eagles roosting in trees near the West Point Restaurant. Make sure to grab a bite while you’re there, the food is amazing! A little further down the road, you can sometimes see the Eagles swooping through the canyon at Box Canyon State Park. Near the Hagerman Wildlife Sanctuary and fish hatchery, you’ll see hundreds of ducks, geese and even a few swans. You’ll definitely want to bring binoculars for this trip.
3. Basecamp for Soldier Mountain Skiing & Boarding
Soldier Mountain is a great small resort north of Hagerman. When you stay in Hagerman, you can ski and soak all in one day. Magic Mountain and Pomerelle are also great ski hills in the area to check out. Soldier’s budget friendly ski packages and fun terrain make it so you can’t go wrong exploring their mountain. Plus, if you’re extra adventurous they have some of Idaho’s best backcountry cat skiing. They can accomodate small or large groups. The cat drivers will get you to the best powder sweet spots.
4. Enjoy Winter Photography
Winter is a great time for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning images of Hagerman. The contrast of blue skies and slate colored rock against white snow and unique light can create breathtaking photographs. Lemmon Falls might be one of the prettiest frozen waterfall in the area and you can get right up to its’ base. The drive into the canyon may be icy, so make sure you’re prepared before adventuring. Explore all seven state parks for frozen waterfalls, blue water and the scenic views of the canyon.
5. Hagerman Fossil Beds & Historical Museum
Dive into winter quiet and explore a time long ago. The Hagerman Fossil Beds offer a unique opportunity to learn about prehistoric life. The fossil beds are an incredible site for exploration, and while the visitor center may have limited hours in winter, the surrounding area is accessible for hikes and fossil spotting. Find even more fossil history at the museum as well as local history. Did you know that the Wilson’s Club is the longest continuously operating bar in Idaho? Ritter Island was once owned by a woman entrepenuer who raised prize winning Gernsie cows. You can still see the barn and homestead today. Find so many interesting stories from the Bonnevile Flood, Native Americans, Pliocene Epoch, Oregon Trail, township and more.
6. Visit Local Cafes and Restaurants
We have all your creature comforts, right in one place and perfect for hibernating. Try a few of our tasty restaurants most within walking distance from the Inn. Indulge in local cuisine, warm up with hot drinks, and dance all night at one of our clubs. Francesca’s Wine & Dine has some great farm to table meals and you can’t miss the finger steaks at Riverboat. Lot’s of places will offer winter specials and hours, so be sure to plan ahead for any late night dining.
Conclusion
Winter in Hagerman, Idaho, is not just about enduring the cold. It’s about embracing the unique experiences of the slower season. And it counts if it’s from the comfort of your bed, snuggled under the covers. For those that do decide to venture out for more, you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Hagerman has something warm waiting for you this winter!
