Have you ever looked forward to a vacation but dreaded the hustle and bustle of every tourist spot? If this sounds all too familiar, hop in the car and head to Albion, Idaho. Just a quick two and a half hours north of Salt Lake City, Utah, this quiet town is the perfect place to get away from the world, do a little reset, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Camp Out
Albion is surrounded by ideal spots to set up your tent or trailer, including Thompson Flats, City of Rocks, Lake Cleveland, and more. If you still want to enjoy modern luxuries, the Willow Glamping Yurt features a king-sized bed, mini fridge, heater, and perfectly placed skylight for stargazing.
Hit the Slopes
Situated just 20 minutes up the mountain, Pomerelle Mountain Resort has two ski lifts, many easy-to-learn runs, and virtually no wait times. Purchase your tickets on their website to skip the line at the ticket office and get a discount.
Experience the Bottomless Lake
Lake Cleveland, the beautiful mountain haven that locals claim to be bottomless, is just a few minutes from Pomerelle. You’ll love kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, climbing the surrounding rocks, and relaxing at the nearby picnic spots.
Tour a City Like No Other
The famous formations of the City of Rocks are about 45 minutes from Albion, but the views and adventures are well worth the drive. Explore Bathtub Rock, scale the Twin Sisters, bike around Register Rock, or clip on your cross-country skis or snowshoes for a wintertime excursion.
Decompress in the Hot Springs
You may have a bit of a chill after your skiing outing or sore muscles from scrambling around the rocks, and Durfee Hot Springs is just the spot to rest and relax. With a cooler kiddie pool for the littles, a large lukewarm pool for shooting hoops and playing, and two steaming hot pools for unwinding, it’s the perfect stop for the whole family.
Get Spooked
If you opt for a fall trip, you won’t want to miss the famous Haunted Mansions of Albion. Open Thursday to Saturday through October, the attraction features various themed houses and a spooky, old-timey vibe you’ll love. Get tickets online ahead of time to secure your spot.
Grab a Bite to Eat
After your full days of adventuring, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite! Tank Hills Pizza Café is located across the street from the Haunted Mansions and features a delicious selection of pizza, pasta, salads, and sandwiches in a cozy setup. When it’s time for dessert, Albion Mercantile Co. is just a few steps away with homemade ice cream (served with color-changing spoons!) and local snacks.
While it’s not the most glamorous, Instagram-worthy destination, the old-fashioned charm and easy access to the fresh air make Albion the perfect vacation for anyone looking for some peace, quiet, and adventure.