SUP Explorer | 10 Paddle Board Hidden Gems in Idaho

Idaho may be landlocked, but it’s packed with freshwater gems perfect for stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). From calm city lakes to wild mountain reservoirs and serene rivers, Idaho offers something for every kind of paddler.

Whether you’re an experienced SUP adventurer or new to the board, these are the top places to paddle board in Idaho:

1. Payette Lake
2. Redfish Lake
3. Lake Coeur d'Alene
4. Lucky Peak Reservoir
5. Priest Lake
6. Snake River
7. Cascade Lake
8. Blue Heart Springs
9. Alturas Lake
10. Black Canyon Reservoir

1. Payette Lake

Located in McCall, Payette Lake is a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by pine forests and mountains. Perfect for SUP camping, early morning paddles, or post-hike cool-downs with pet-friendly beaches and lots of space to roam.

Tip: Paddle early to avoid afternoon winds and boat traffic.

2. Redfish Lake

Located in Stanley near Sawtooth Mountains, Redfish Lake very well may be Idaho’s most scenic paddle with views of jagged Sawtooth peaks. The scenery is great for photographers, nature lovers, and paddling at golden hour.

Look out for rentals available at Redfish Lake Lodge

3. Lake Coeur d'Alene

One of Idaho’s largest and most popular lakes, with bays, islands, and long-distance routes, is located in Northern Idaho. Launch from downtown for urban paddling, or escape to quieter coves nearby.

Sunset paddles are especially stunning at Lake Coeur d'Alene

4. Lucky Peak Reservoir

Located near Boise, Lucky Peak Reservoir is a local favourite with easy access from the city and a long season. The calm waters make it ideal for SUP yoga, fitness, and casual cruising.

Bonus: Picnic areas, sandy beaches, and great for groups

5. Priest Lake

If you're looking for somewhere in Northern Idaho near the Canadian border, Priest Lake is remote and peaceful, with wild shorelines and clear, cold water. Some pros are less boat traffic than some bigger lakes so you can get a full-day adventure or weekend escape.

Make sure you wear a life jacket or PFD during paddling trips, especially in remote areas

6. Snake River

Paddle beneath scenic canyon walls, waterfalls, and bridges near the Idaho Falls area. Top spots include Perrine Bridge (Twin Falls), where you can paddle right under this iconic 500-ft structure and Shoshone Falls section, with calm stretches below the falls.

Be on the lookout for wildlife like eagles, herons, fish, and more

7. Cascade Lake

Located near Donnelly/McCall, Cascade Lake is popular with great campgrounds, fishing, and calm paddling bays. This large lake has dog-friendly areas, especially along the western shores.

SUP fishing is popular here: try out a fishing SUP board to start casting and reeling.

8. Blue Heart Springs

Launch from Banbury Hot Springs or Thousand Springs to a surreal, spring-fed lagoon on the Snake River with glassy blue water. Capture shots for your Instagram feed at Blue Heart Springs.

Remote areas are best with a guided trip or GPS

9. Alturas Lake

Located in Sawtooth National Recreational Area, you can find a peaceful mountain lake near Redfish, but far less crowded. Up your experience by camping or picnic on the shoreline.

Wildlife sightings are most common in the early morning or at dusk

10. Black Canyon Reservoir

Located near Emmett, Black Canyon Reservoir is a quiet reservoir with scenic canyon views and calm water. It is seasonal access, so the best times to go would be May through early fall.

Calm waters in reservoirs are perfect for SUP yoga and beginners

Found a favourite in Idaho? There's plenty more where that came from. Browse the SUP Explorer map for your next paddle, and gear up with a Thurso board built for exploring.