Island Park's Winter Magic: Snowmobiling, Ice Skating, Ice Fishing, and Nordic Skiing

January….when wintertime recreation truly begins!

From now until Spring, we get the “Best in Snow!” From snowmobiling, cross country skiing, ice skating to snowshoeing...Island Park has something for everyone—even a simple walk through the snow-covered trees watching the winter wildlife.

While it’s tempting to hibernate all winter long, it’s more important than ever to be exposed to nature’s beauty even in the cold months ahead to keep our vitality and spirits up. Island Park, Idaho is a wintry wonderland where you can escape the stress and breathe while exploring the beauty of wild nature without all the crowds.

Escape to the quiet beauty of winter through miles of trails in Island Park, Idaho.

Here are a few of our favorite wintertime things to do nearby the cabins:

Winter Trails at Harriman State Park 

Just minutes from the Little Chalet in the Forest, even closer than West Yellowstone, there is another snowy kingdom called Harriman State Park, with 22 miles of trails anchored in a wildlife refuge that is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. According to Idaho Parks and Recreation, some of the best fly fishing waters in the country flow through Harriman State Park, known by angler’s worldwide as “the Ranch;” and its 16,000 acres of abundant evergreen forests, meadows, and river banks offer over 24 miles of groomed trails perfect for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking with views of Henry’s Fork and wintering wildlife.

Ice Skating, Tournaments, and Shows at Lakeside Lodge

Lakeside Lodge is a hot spot for winter play with views of Jefferson and Sawtell peaks with a bar serving up ice cold beer and spirits to warm you up. There you can find snowmobile rentals, ice skating, Ice Fishing Tournament (1/23), a Vintage Snowmobile Show (1/16), and more! 

Island Park is a snowmobile haven.

Ice Fishing at Henry’s Fork and Henry’s Lake

Henry’s Fork of the Snake River is one of the finest trout streams in the country, famous for fly fishing and voted #1 stream in the country by Trout Unlimited. Tail-walking rainbows, mountain whitefish, and some big browns can be found under the ice this time of year. And Henry’s Lake is probably the best ice-fishing spot in all of Idaho brimming with big cutthroats, rainbow-cutthroat hybrids and trophy brook trout.

If the winter woods are calling you, there’s still room at the Little Chalet! It’s perfect for you and your darling, and just big enough to bring the kids along, too.

Henry’s Fork is a sanctuary whether you’re looking for one of the best ice fishing spots in the country, or to simply wander and catch a glimpse of wintering wildlife.

All of our cabins are available for summer bookings now, so hurry and reserve yours before they’re gone! We can’t wait for you to experience the magic…