5 Must-Do Fall Adventures Near Rexburg, Idaho

Cozy Up at Idaho Sky RV Resort—Your Perfect Autumn Home Base

When autumn rolls into eastern Idaho, it transforms the landscape into a painter’s palette of golds, ambers, and rust-reds. Crisp mornings give way to sun-drenched afternoons, and the mountain air smells of pine and possibility. If you’re searching for one of the best RV parks near Idaho Falls to experience the season in all its glory, Idaho Sky RV Resort in Rexburg is your launchpad for fall’s most magical adventures.

At Idaho Sky RV Resort, you’ll find the perfect home base with your choice of Cozy Cabins and Retro RV rentals, or full-hookup RV sites—so you can return from your adventures to a warm, inviting space. Whether you’re traveling in your own rig, booking a retro trailer, or settling into one of our luxury tiny homes, you’ll have everything you need to relax, recharge, and soak up the season in comfort.

And with so many things to do near Idaho Falls—from scenic drives and hot springs to wildlife viewing and pumpkin patches—you’re perfectly positioned to explore the very best of the region without ever straying too far from home.

1. Chase the Colors on Scenic Fall Drives

When autumn arrives in eastern Idaho, the roads turn into ribbons of color—framed by fiery aspens, golden cottonwoods, and deep evergreen backdrops. From peaceful byways to dramatic mountain routes, there’s no shortage of breathtaking drives within a short trip from Idaho Sky RV Resort.

Start close to home with the Teton Scenic Byway, which passes through Driggs and Victor on your way toward the Wyoming border. The route offers unforgettable views of the Teton Range, where jagged peaks rise behind a canvas of glowing fall foliage. These quiet mountain towns are great for a coffee break or lunch stop before heading onward.

Just beyond lies one of the most iconic drives in the region: Scenic Loop Drive through Grand Teton National Park. Located less than two hours from the resort, this world-famous route delivers unbeatable fall color, wildlife sightings, and panoramic reflections like those seen at Oxbow Bend, where the Tetons mirror perfectly in the Snake River surrounded by golden trees. It’s a bucket-list autumn day trip you won’t forget.

For a slower, more local pace, explore the Ashton-Tetonia Road (Hwy 32)—a quiet pastoral route with wide-open farmland, rustic barns, and vibrant foliage, all with the distant Tetons standing watch. This lesser-known gem is a favorite among photographers and leaf peepers alike.

Prefer something a bit more off the beaten path? The drive along the Snake River to Heise and Kelly Canyon is rich with glowing trees and winding riverside views. Pull over for a picnic or short hike—then cruise back in time for sunset.

And if you’re craving reflections and solitude, take a longer loop through Island Park, where lakes and rivers turn into mirrors for the season’s color show.

No matter which direction you head, eastern Idaho’s fall drives are a masterclass in beauty. And when the roads wind down, Idaho Sky RV Resort is ready to welcome you back—offering warmth, stillness, and a front-row seat to the season’s best.

2. Hike to Hidden Trails and Waterfalls

Fall is one of the best times to explore eastern Idaho on foot. The trails around Rexburg are quieter, the air is crisp, and the forest canopy glows with golden hues. Whether you’re chasing the thunderous beauty of Mesa Falls or wandering a lesser-known path, every hike feels more intimate in autumn.

One of the easiest ways to experience this magic is on the Lower Mesa Falls Trail—a scenic, accessible path with sweeping views and plenty of photo opportunities. The nearby Upper Mesa Falls boardwalk also offers a short, rewarding stroll right above the roaring cascade. As you walk, keep an eye out for mule deer quietly grazing in the underbrush or ruffed grouse rustling through fallen leaves—common sights along these peaceful forested paths.

These trails are ideal for travelers looking for a light hike with a huge scenic payoff—and maybe even a surprise wildlife moment or two.

One of the easiest ways to experience this magic is on the Lower Mesa Falls Trail—a scenic, accessible path with sweeping views and plenty of photo opportunities. The nearby Upper Mesa Falls boardwalk also offers a short, rewarding stroll right above the roaring cascade. These trails are ideal for travelers looking for a light hike with a huge scenic payoff.

Want to explore further? Take a day trip to:

• Cress Creek Nature Trail (about 25 minutes from the resort): A family-friendly hike with paved and dirt trail options, interpretive signs, and panoramic views over the Snake River.
• Menan Buttes (20 minutes away): Hike the rim of a dormant volcanic crater with 360-degree views of farmland and the Snake River Plain.
• Darby Canyon Wind Cave Trail (just over an hour from the resort): A moderate-to-challenging trail leading to a striking cave and waterfall tucked into the Tetons—well worth the trip for experienced hikers.
• Upper Palisades Lake Trail (1 hour 15 minutes): This stunning trail winds through aspens and evergreens, offering lakeside views framed by golden foliage in the fall.

Wherever your feet take you, the rhythm of fall is always present—leaves crunching underfoot, cool air filling your lungs, and streams whispering through quiet canyons. Be sure to bring layers; mornings and late afternoons get brisk.

And when your legs are tired and your soul is full, Idaho Sky RV Resort is waiting with a hot shower, a cozy fire, and everything you need to relax and recharge.

3. Soak in the Warm Waters of Heise Hot Springs

Few things complement a crisp fall day like a soak in a natural hot spring—and Heise Hot Springs, just 35 minutes from Idaho Sky RV Resort, is one of the area’s most cherished spots to unwind. This historic resort features a variety of soaking options, including a large warm pool, a steamy mineral pool averaging around 104°F, and even a seasonal water slide for the adventurous.

Surrounded by rugged hills and fresh mountain air, the contrast of hot water and cool breezes creates a soothing, almost meditative experience. There’s also an on-site pizza restaurant and golf course, so it’s easy to make a full afternoon of it.

Afterward, the comfort of your cabin, retro RV, or your heated rig at Idaho Sky makes the perfect ending—an ideal mix of relaxation and retreat that turns a simple soak into a lasting memory.

4. Watch Wildlife and Savor the Stillness of Fall

Autumn brings a quiet magic to eastern Idaho—one that’s felt as much as seen. As the world slows down for winter, wildlife becomes more visible and nature feels more alive in its stillness. Around Rexburg, you’ll spot deer moving through golden meadows, migrating birds resting along the riverbanks, and if you’re lucky, even elk or moose in the early morning fog.

Excellent places to observe wildlife include the Henry’s Fork near Ashton, the open fields around Menan Buttes, and the forests near Mesa Falls, where bald eagles and other raptors often circle above the canyon. It’s a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Whether you’re setting out on a quiet morning walk or pausing at a scenic overlook at sunset, these peaceful moments create the kind of memories that last long after the trip ends.

And when the day winds down, there’s no rush—Idaho Sky RV Resort is just a short drive away, ready to welcome you back with warmth, comfort, and a view of the stars.

5. Celebrate the Season with Local Harvest & Fall Flavors

Autumn in Idaho isn’t just beautiful—it’s delicious. As the harvest season arrives, pumpkin patches, apple stands, and local markets throughout the Rexburg area burst to life, offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and the cozy spirit of fall.

Pick out the perfect pumpkin, sip on fresh-pressed apple cider, or gather squash, carrots, and local honey for a warm meal back at your cabin or RV. With a full kitchen in our cozy rentals—or outdoor fire pits ready for roasting—it’s easy to turn your fall finds into something comforting and memorable.

This is one of the most family-friendly times of year to visit, and we’ve even created a dedicated guide to fall activities and experiences in Rexburg to help you plan the perfect seasonal getaway. Check it out here:

Things to Do in Rexburg This Fall – Cozy, Close, and Full of Charm

Whether you’re carving pumpkins with the kids or sharing pie under the stars, fall at Idaho Sky RV Resort offers not just a stay—but a real taste of the season.

Ready for Your Fall Getaway?

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, strolling golden trails, soaking in mineral springs, or simply savoring the stillness of a starry autumn night, Idaho Sky RV Resort makes your stay effortless. Nestled in the heart of Rexburg, our resort is the ideal launchpad for fall’s most memorable experiences—blending comfort, convenience, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Book a Cozy Cabin, try out a Retro RV, or bring your own RV to enjoy the season your way at one of our Spacious RV Sites. After every adventure, you’ll return to a warm, inviting space that feels like home.

When you’re ready to unwind, soak in one of our outdoor hot tubs, gather around the community fire pits, or enjoy a quiet moment under the stars. With thoughtful amenities and a peaceful setting, Idaho Sky is where autumn feels just right.

🍂 Reserve your autumn escape today at idahoskyrvresort.com and discover why fall in eastern Idaho isn’t just something to see—it’s something to feel.