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Signing up with Idaho 511

• Creating an account is NOT mandatory on this website; however if you do, you’ll be able to personalize your experience and receive traffic notifications.
• Select ‘Sign Up’ from the menu options in the top right corner
• Enter your name, email, and create a password. Click ‘Sign Up' when done.
• You will get an email to verify your account, click the link that was sent to your email.
• Including a phone number will allow you to receive text notifications, you will receive an SMS (text) with your confirmation code. Note this is in addition to the email verification.

Creating & Saving a Customized Route

• Enter your start and end locations by typing the addresses into the address fields. Alternatively, you may also right click on the map. Once you have entered the route locations, click ‘Drive’.
• Review the routes generated and select the one that suits you best.
• When done, enter a name for your route and click ‘Save’.

Creating a Notification for your Route

• Once your route is saved, you will be asked if you want to be notified of events on this route. Click ‘Create Route Notification’
• You will be redirected to the notification creation page. Enter the required information for your route, select a delivery option (email or SMS), and click ‘Save’.
• You will now be notified of any future events that affect your route.

Mobile Apps

How can i check the traffic on the roads.

By default, the app displays traffic colors to indicate travel speeds. You can toggle the traffic layer on/off by going to the layers icon (stacked squares) in the top right corner of the Map View and toggling the Traffic setting.

What is “Drive Mode”?

While driving, the app will automatically go to Drive Mode, which helps to conserve both battery and data usage while still providing audio alerts. This can be turned off at any time by going to Drive Mode and clicking on the Auto Drive toggle.

How do I save a route?

First, enter the destination in the search bar above the Map. If you want the starting location to be different from your current location, enter that info as well. When the app presents you a route, click on the Star icon next to the suggested route. The app will ask you to name the route. Press Save to finish.

What is a Traffic Alert and how does it work?

The Traffic Alert feature will check a Saved Route for traffic events at a specified time and send you a notification each day to let you know if there are any issues on your route. This can be created by clicking on “Add Traffic Alerts” after you create a Saved Route.

How do I get audio alerts while I drive?

The app will automatically detect traffic events and announce them based on your current location. Keep the app in Drive Mode as you drive for the best experience. The distance from an event at which an alert will play depends on your speed, location, and direction of travel.

How do I Login to my My 511 account?

You can Login to your My 511 account by navigating to Menu icon; the ‘hamburger’ or set of three horizontal lines at the top left of the screen. Then select Login. Enter your details and click the Login button.

How do I access the custom routes I’ve setup in My 511 on the website within the mobile app?

If you are logged into your account, you can access your custom routes by clicking the Star icon at the bottom left corner of the Map View. From here, you can access both your saved cameras and routes, which are automatically synchronized from the 511 website.

Download the free App:

8 Must-See Stops on the Ultimate Idaho Road Trip

Idaho’s rugged, diverse beauty is accessible from all sides, making a road trip one of the best ways to explore the state. To make your experience on four wheels as simple and pleasant as possible, this road trip welcomes you in the southeastern corner of the state from nearby Salt Lake City and snakes you all the way north into Idaho’s panhandle. Drop the top and prepare for high mountain deserts; deep, jagged canyons; dense, lush forests and lots of cool, fresh mountain water — and plenty of adventure — along this most scenic of routes.

Getting There

From Salt Lake City, take Interstate 84 northwest to Twin Falls, where your Idaho road-trip adventure begins.

See & Do

Perched across the awe-inducing Snake River Canyon lies the I.B. Perrine Bridge — your scenic gateway to Twin Falls. As you cross, watch for BASE (Building, Antenna, Span or Earth) jumpers. These thrill-seekers come from all over the world to load up with a parachute, leap from the bridge and free-fall before pulling their chute and floating to the canyon floor. If you’re ready for some more jaw-dropping views, head to Shoshone Falls (“the Niagara of the West”), which cascade 212 feet into the Snake River. Snap a selfie on the overlook and then hit Dierkes Lake Recreation Area for hiking trails, rock climbing and water activities. When hunger hits, grab a seat on the patio at Elevation 486 , where the impressive dishes are matched only by the spectacular view.

Nearby & Noteworthy

•       Milner’s Gate
•       Koto Brewing Co.
•       Zip the Snake
•       Canyon Springs Golf Course
•       Putters Mini Golf
•       Cloverleaf Creamery
•       Thousand Springs Scenic Byway
•       Bruneau Dunes State Park

From Twin Falls, take I-84 west.

Idaho’s capital city tops all types of lists for livability due to its vibrant arts and culture scene, outdoor recreation opportunities, and flourishing culinary options. Stretch your legs on the Ridge to Rivers Trail System, where you’ll find more than 100 miles of hiking and biking trails offering views of the city below. For a more leisurely stroll, rent a Boise GreenBike to explore the Boise Greenbelt , which winds through downtown and multiple parks along the Boise River. Stop off at the Capital City Public Market or The Boise Farmers Market for fresh, local foods and arts, crafts and more. Grab a bite at one of Boise’s palate-pleasing dining options or a raise a glass of Idaho craft beer or Idaho wine at one of several local breweries and wineries . If you’re staying the night, book tickets to the Idaho Shakespeare Festival (tip: you’ll want to book in advance as performances can sell out quickly) for an unforgettable night of theater under the stars.

•       Basque Museum & Culture Center
•       Freak Alley Gallery
•       Boise Whitewater Park
•       World Center for Birds of Prey

From Boise, take Highway 55 north.

Wrapped around the southern banks of Payette Lake , McCall is a charming mountain town packed with outdoor adventure for any age or level. Spend a day at the lake, where you can rent everything from paddleboards and kayaks to jet boats and pontoons or book a lake cruise . Hike or bike the variety of trails Ponderosa State Park or get your downhill thrills at Brundage Mountain Resort and then catch the sunset with a spectacular lake view at Osprey Cliff Overlook. When it’s time to cool down from all your activity, head straight to Ice Cream Alley .

•       Payette River Scenic Byway
•       Whitewater rafting on the Payette River
•       Lake Cascade State Park
•       Kelly’s Whitewater Park
•       Tamarack Resort
•       Gold Fork Hot Springs
•       Jug Mountain Ranch
•       Locals’ Favorite Hikes
•       Local Breweries

Cambridge & Hells Canyon

From McCall, take Highway 55 north through New Meadows and onto Highway 95 south.

The small town of Cambridge offers access to big adventure in the nearby Hells Canyon National Recreation Area . Stunning Hells Canyon is North America’s deepest river gorge (ever deeper than the Grand Canyon) and a staggering 10 miles wide at some points. Book a half- or full-day jet boat tour or a single- or multi-day whitewater rafting excursion (or a combo trip). Don’t miss an opportunity to take a breathtaking hike or fish for salmon and steelhead. Pro tip: The splendor of Hells Canyon lies 24 miles west from Cambridge, so be sure to load up on gas, ice and snacks as you come through town.

•       Mundo Hot Springs
•       Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
•       Weiser River Trail

From Cambridge, take Highway 95 north through New Meadows.

Lewiston is home to Idaho’s newest wine region (Lewis-Clark Valley AVA), where you’ll find 10 wineries producing award-winning wines. Book a wine tour to experience the area’s best sips and learn the history’s rich viticultural history and then indulge in the distinctive dishes at Mystic Café . A launching point to the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area , Lewiston is an ideal base camp for tours on the Snake River that introduce you to wildlife, historical sites, and more.

•       Northwest Passage Scenic Byway
•       Nez Perce National Historical Park
•       Monastery of St. Gertrude
•       River Dance Lodge

From Lewiston, take Highway 95 north.

Surrounded by miles upon miles of rolling hills and fertile farmland, the charming college town of Moscow is an oasis of art, food and drink with enough hiking and biking to balance it all out. Play a round at the University of Idaho Golf Course or stroll through the garden displays at the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Gardens . Learn the significance of the horse to the Nez Perce at  the Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center . Take a hike in Idler’s Rest Nature Preserve or bike the Latah Trail . Enjoy an eclectic mix of sandwiches and soups at Kitchen Counter and then top it off with a pint at Hunga Dunga Brewing Co . or a glass of wine at Colter’s Creek Tasting Room.

• White Pine Scenic Byway
• Elk River Backcountry Byway

Coeur d’Alene

From Moscow, take Highway 95 north.

This stop in Idaho’s panhandle area features plenty of chances to get on or in some pristine Idaho mountain water. Spend the day at City Park & Beach on Lake Coeur d’Alene (kore-duh-LANE) — home to sandy beaches, barbecue pits, volleyball and basketball courts and more. After all that fun in the sun, treat your taste buds to some comfort food at Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese . Tame the fiercest of hunger pangs with the seasonal Huckleberry Heaven sandwich and then head to McEuen Park for an evening of music at Life After 5 . Start your next morning off by fueling up with a Cajun-inspired breakfast at Ten/6 . Then it’s off to soar above and among the trees with fantastic views of Lake Coeur d’Alene on a zipline canopy tour . If you have any energy left, plan an evening hike on Tubbs Hill to catch the sunset on a lakeside trail or enjoy a sunset dinner cruise .

• Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway
• St. Joe River Scenic Byway
• Silverwood Theme Park
• Route of the Hiawatha
• Red Horse Mountain Ranch
• Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes
• Idaho Centennial Trail

From Coeur d’Alene, take Highway 95 north.

Sandpoint hugs the shore of Idaho’s largest and deepest body of water, Lake Pend Oreille (pond oh-RAY), where you’ll find one of the best sunrise spots at City Beach as well as paddleboard, kayak and jet ski rentals. Huddled among the Selkirk, Cabinet and Bitter Root Mountain Ranges, Sandpoint is surrounded by hiking and biking trails for all levels. For a one-stop-shop of ultimate adventure, purchase the Ultimate Fun Pass at Schweitzer Mountain Resort , which gives you a full day of all-you-can trampolining, ziplining, rock climbing and scenic chairlift riding. If you’re cruising into town in August, the Festival at Sandpoint is a must-do. When replenishing fuel stores is critical, Sandpoint delivers. Load up on locally sourced pub fare and a cold one at Baxter’s on Cedar or settle into a martini or classic cocktail served up with unrivaled fare and a waterfront view at the splendid Trinity at City Beach .

• Western Pleasure Guest Ranch
• Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway
• Pend Oreille Scenic Byway

For more trip ideas, check out the Idaho Roadsider and when you’re ready to hit the road, be sure to download the Idaho 511 app for real-time traffic updates.

Visit Idaho

Published on February 14, 2020

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Related adventures, shadow valley golf course, sandpoint elks golf course.

IdahoHotSprings.com

Idaho Road Reports and Road Conditions

Travel wisely and check mobile-friendly Idaho road conditions, road closures, weather, road cameras and Idaho road reports all from right here. It is always a good idea to check road reports before traveling on Idaho roads - especially during winter. Inclement weather and poor driving conditions can develop out of nowhere. The most common backcountry road conditions during inclement weather in Idaho are typically low visibility, icy roads and/or rockfall (rocks on the road). Avalanches are not very common but have been known to occur in the Banner Summit area along state highway 21 late winter/early spring.

Idaho Road and Travel Tips

• Always keep a roadside emergency kit ( buy on Amazon.com ) and Idaho Gazetteer map ( buy on Amazon.com ) in your vehicle.
• You can use studded tires on Idaho roads from October 1st – April 30th. Driving with studded tires at other times carries a $67 fine.
• If you don't have studded tires consider using tire chains ( buy on Amazon.com ) when driving during inclement weather conditions.
• From November 15th - April 30th in Idaho, parking at any of Idaho's 17 Park N' Ski areas requires a valid permit. Idaho Park N' Ski permits are also honored at Oregon's 100+ Sno-Parks.
• Turning on your low-beam headlights during the daytime in the winter months and during low natural light conditions can help make your vehicle more visible on the road.
• Periodically check that your spare tire is in good condition especially regarding tread wear and tire pressure. Stash a couple cans of Fix-A-Flat ( buy on Amazon.com ) in your trunk for backup.
• Keep your car headlights clean and bright by getting in the habit of wiping off your lights when refueling.
• For the most accurate readings, check your oil when your engine is cold and your antifreeze when your engine is hot.
• Keep tools, spare tire/in a can, flashlights, atlas, maps, blankets, extra food, water and clothing in your vehicle at all times.
• Make sure the tires on your vehicle are properly inflated by testing them regularly with a tire gauge ( buy on Amazon.com ).
• Bridges and overpasses are the most dangerous parts of the road in the winter because they are the first to freeze and the last to thaw.

Idaho Road and Travel Resources

• View a grid of live Idaho webcams
• Northwest US weather conditions snapshot
• Listing of Idaho visitor centers
• Map of Idaho rest areas
• Map of Idaho scenic byways

En-route to hot springing adventures in another geothermal-friendly state? Don't forget to check Oregon road conditions and California road reports .

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Idaho Road Cams and Driving Conditions

Welcome to Idaho, the Gem State, a haven of untamed wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly communities. Our extensive guide connects you to Idaho’s Department of Transportation road cams, offering live traffic updates, weather information, and insights on scenic routes, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience throughout the state.

Idaho’s roadways encompass key highways such as the I-84, I-90, and US-95, linking travelers to the state’s most renowned cities and attractions. Anticipate potential congestion during peak hours in urban areas like Boise, Coeur d’Alene, and Idaho Falls. Idaho’s weather can be quite diverse, with heavy snowfall in the mountainous regions during winter and occasional thunderstorms in the summer. Stay informed with our road cams for the latest updates, helping you navigate the state with confidence.

Idaho's vibrant capital city, Boise is known for its lively downtown, rich cultural scene, and proximity to outdoor adventures, including the beautiful Boise River Greenbelt.

Coeur d'Alene

A picturesque lakeside city, Coeur d'Alene offers stunning natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and attractions like the Coeur d'Alene City Park and Beach.

Located along the Snake River, Twin Falls offers breathtaking natural beauty, including the majestic Shoshone Falls, often referred to as the "Niagara of the West."

Idaho Falls

Home to the famous Idaho Falls River Walk, this charming city boasts a blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and the fascinating Museum of Idaho.

Rich in agricultural history, Nampa offers a mix of urban amenities, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions, including the Warhawk Air Museum.

Immerse yourself in Idaho’s captivating beauty by venturing along one of its many picturesque routes and byways. Marvel at the stunning Sawtooth Scenic Byway, traverse the historic Lewis and Clark Trail, or explore the charming Palouse Scenic Byway. Each drive showcases a unique aspect of Idaho’s diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures.

As you explore Idaho, let our road cams guide you through the state’s diverse landscapes, providing you with real-time updates on traffic and weather conditions. Discover the unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures that make Idaho a truly unforgettable destination.

Major Cities

• Boise: Idaho’s vibrant capital city, Boise is known for its lively downtown, rich cultural scene, and proximity to outdoor adventures, including the beautiful Boise River Greenbelt.
• Coeur d’Alene: A picturesque lakeside city, Coeur d’Alene offers stunning natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and attractions like the Coeur d’Alene City Park and Beach.
• Idaho Falls: Home to the famous Idaho Falls River Walk, this charming city boasts a blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and the fascinating Museum of Idaho.
• Meridian: A rapidly growing city, Meridian features family-friendly attractions, beautiful parks, and the popular Village at Meridian shopping and entertainment center.
• Nampa: Rich in agricultural history, Nampa offers a mix of urban amenities, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions, including the Warhawk Air Museum.
• Pocatello: Nestled in the heart of southeastern Idaho, Pocatello is a gateway to outdoor adventures and boasts attractions like the Idaho Museum of Natural History and the charming Old Town district.
• Twin Falls: Located along the Snake River, Twin Falls offers breathtaking natural beauty, including the majestic Shoshone Falls, often referred to as the “Niagara of the West.”
•  Lewiston: Situated at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, Lewiston features a rich history, picturesque landscapes, and access to numerous recreational activities.
• Caldwell: Embracing its agricultural roots, Caldwell is home to the beautiful College of Idaho and the popular Indian Creek Plaza, a hub for community events, shopping, and dining.
• Sandpoint: A charming lakeside town, Sandpoint boasts stunning Lake Pend Oreille, a vibrant arts scene, and the renowned Schweitzer Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding.
• Moscow: A quintessential college town, Moscow is home to the University of Idaho and offers a friendly atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and the scenic Moscow Mountain Recreation Area.
• Post Falls: Located along the Spokane River, Post Falls is a thriving community offering scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and attractions such as the Q’emiln Park and Trail System.

© 2024 My Trip Check.

Click on any district on the map to access road cams and driving conditions for that district. 

Idaho road trip - The ultimate travel itinerary

Idaho may not be an obvious place for a road trip, but with its wild rivers, dramatic mountains, scenic byways and expansive national parks, there truly is no better place to get away from at all.

This epic Idaho road trip itinerary starts in Boise and dips briefly into Oregon, taking in all the most amazing sights in south-central Idaho - from the stunning Sawtooth National Forest and otherworldly Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve to the iconic Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, and numerous spectacular waterfalls along the way.

While this itinerary goes at a pretty quick pace, you can always opt to spend more or less time in each destination, extending the trip from 9 days to 12 or even to 2 weeks.

Here's how to make the most out of a road trip in Idaho.

Day 1: Start in Boise, then drive to Twin Falls

Welcome to the Gem State!

Arrive in Boise and see the city

You'll start your Idaho road trip in capital city Boise, which has an international airport with arrivals from many different airlines all over the world.

If you're not local, pick up your rental car at the airport ( Budget , Enterprise and Avis all have offices in the area). There will be plenty of time to explore Boise on days 8 and 9, so for now set your sights on stop number 1: the majestic Bruneau Sand Dunes, an hour south of the airport.

Go sand-boarding Bruneau Sand Dunes

The first destination on your driving itinerary does not feel like typical Idaho; in fact, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're in Dubai or Africa when you arrive at Bruneau Dunes State Park.

This 4,800-acre geologic preservation area features an array of massive sand dunes sitting next to small lakes, making for quite the dramatic sight.

It's believed that the dunes were formed about 15,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, when the Bonneville Flood inundated parts of southern Idaho and eastern Washington.

Today, it's a popular attraction for Boise residents and visitors alike, who come to fly kites, do some stargazing, fish in the lakes or surf down the dunes.

Entry to the park costs $5.

Plan to arrive at Bruneau by around 10am so you can take full advantage of the park and still have plenty of time to travel to your next road trip destination.

Set your Sat Nav for the Bruneau Sand Dunes visitor center, where you can park your car and head inside to rent a sandboard for $15 a day. Then make your way to the top of the dunes and surf your way down!

For more information about getting to Bruneau Sand Dunes and what to do once you're there, head to the NPS website .

Drive to Twin Falls

After you've mastered sandboarding, dust off the sand, hop back in your car and drive towards Twin Falls. It's about 1.5 hours away, so you should arrive by lunch time.

The stunning city of Twin Falls is known as the gateway to Snake River Canyon, one of the most scenic parts of the state.

It's also a hotbed for water activities and adventure sports; to see what we mean, just head to Perrine Bridge and watch the base jumpers leap off the edge!

Have lunch at Idaho Joes

Seeing as you've had a big day already (and it's far from over!) you deserve a big, hearty, super American lunch.

For that, make your way to Idaho Joes, a casual local haunt that specializes in all things fried and delicious.

If you happen to be visiting at the weekend, the buffet breakfast is seriously popular. And be sure to save some room for pie!

See Shoshone Falls - the 'Niagara of the West'

Once you're suitably stuffed, pile back into the car and drive to Shoshone Falls. Don't worry, it's just 15 minutes away.

This awe-inspiring waterfall is known as 'The Niagara of the West,' and it's easy to see why. In fact, it's actually a whole 42ft taller than Niagara, spewing out water at an incredible 3,600 cubic feet per second.

It's especially amazing to look at after rainfall, when the falls are at their most impressive.

There's plenty of parking at Shoshone Falls, and it's an easy walk to the viewpoints.

Head onwards to the city of Blackfoot

After about 45 minutes or so of admiring the falls, it's time to continue on with your Idaho trip.

Your final stop of the day is Blackfoot, a small city with a big claim to fame: 'the Potato Capital of the World.'

You'll get your fair share of spuds tomorrow, but for now you should find your hotel, check in, drop your bags and head into town for dinner.

There are a couple of food options in town, depending on what you're in the mood for. You'll soon notice that 'light bites' are not really a concept in Idaho, so be prepared for some more hefty portions and lashings of fried food!

Day 2: Blackfoot to Swan Valley

Rise and shine! It's time to explore more of this wild and wacky state, starting with perhaps one of the wackiest Idaho tourist attractions you'll see on this road trip: the Idaho Potato Museum.

Visit the Idaho Potato Museum (because obviously)

Yes, it is as corny as it sounds, but the Idaho Potato Museum is also surprisingly interesting, offering a wealth of historical and cultural information about the humble spud.

Plus, museum visitors get a free box of tater tots when they leave - how could you turn that down!

Entry to the museum costs $4 for adults and $2 for children aged 5 to 12. Kids aged 4 and under go for free.

Note that the museum opens at 9:30am and is closed on Sundays.

Drive Blackfoot to Swan Valley

Around 10:30am or so, jump into the car once more to drive to your next Idaho road trip destination: Swan Valley, which is an hour northeast of Blackfoot.

The lovely Swan Valley is famously the location of the South Fork of the Snake River, the best wild trout fly-fishing river in the country.

This waterway boasts an incredible 4,000 fish per mile, making it one of the most productive rivers in the country.

Seeing as fishing is king here, it's only right for you to spend the rest of the day out on the river, seeing what you can catch.

Hire a guide and do some fishing on Snake River

If you're new to fly-fishing, there are several guide companies in the area that will provide equipment and show you the way.

The Lodge at Palisades Creek is a highly rated tour agency, offering half-day guided fishing excursions for $450 for 1 to 4 people (including water and tackle, plus lunch for an additional $20).

The trip lasts four hours, so plan to arrive by around noon or 1pm so you can be out on the water all afternoon.

Alternative: Dip into Wyoming and explore Grand Teton National Park

If fishing's not your thing, you can opt out of Swan Valley and instead drive a bit further east to the mind-blowingly beautiful Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone's less crowded neighbor.

You could easily spend several days wandering around this wild expanse, but it's also completely doable to squeeze a lot into one day.

Your Grand Tetons itinerary should definitely include taking the ferry across Jenny Lake to Hidden Falls, hiking around Cascade Canyon, and seeing how close you can get to the summit at Inspiration Point. The views from there are absolutely breathtaking.

Tonight, you can either stay in luxury in a cabin at the Lodge or head to one of the other, less expensive, accommodation options in the area.

There are also plenty of campgrounds and RV parks if you've brought a tent or a campervan.

Day 3: Drive from Swan Valley to Sun Valley via Craters of the Moon

On day 3, before continuing on with your Idaho road trip, treat yourself to a big breakfast at Angus Restaurant.

The menu at this friendly and rustic truckstop-style eatery consists of breakfast classics like delicious omelets, sizzling bacon, biscuits and gravy, and free coffee refills.

Throw in a milkshake if you're feeling crazy!

Drive to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Breakfast devoured, it's time to move on to your next stop: the mystically named Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.

It's a 2.5-hour drive from Swan Valley, so stop halfway in Idaho Falls to buy some food and water for a picnic lunch later. Gandolfo's New York Deli on S Woodruff Avenue has a great selection of sandwiches and salads. And if you've got a sweet tooth, pick up one of their mousse cakes as well - you won't regret it!

You should plan to arrive at the Craters by around 1pm.

Explore Craters of the Moon

Begin your visit to this jaw-dropping place at the Craters of the Moon visitor center (or the Robert Limbert Visitor Center, as it's called on Google Maps), where they'll give you trail suggestions and information about the park.

You can also watch a short film there that provides more background on the natural history context.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve consists of 1,600 square km of blackened lava flows, cinder cones, volcanic fissures and lava caves.

It was formed during eight major volcanic eruptive periods between 15,000 and 2,00 years ago.

You'll definitely want to bring your camera (and a torch!) to capture these amazing natural features and venture into the caves, which date back thousands of years.

To get the most out of your visit, embark on the 7-mile loop, which includes access to hiking trails that take you up close to the incredible volcanic features.

(You can find a Craters of the Moon map and details of the Loop Road on the National Park Service website .)

The seven-mile loop takes about 30 minutes to drive, but you should allow about 3 hours for stops, hikes, and lunch.

Note that there's a $10 entrance fee per vehicle.

Drive on to Ketchum/ Sun Valley

Once you've completed the loop, it's time to drive on to the next stop on your Idaho road trip: the beautiful Sun Valley.

Not only is Sun Valley incredibly scenic, but it's also historically important. It was one of the original stops on the Union Pacific Railroad (founded in 1862), and it's the final resting place of author Ernest Hemingway, who wrote his most popular novel, For Whom The Bell Tolls , right here in Sun Valley Lodge.

You can head to the Visit Sun Valley website for more info about Hemingway's Sun Valley legacy.

To get to the Sun Valley-Ketchum area from the Craters, follow Highway 20 West for about an hour before hanging a right onto Gannett Road. From there, get on State Highway 75 North, which will take you into the city of Ketchum.

It's a 2-hour drive from Craters of the Moon, so you should arrive around 6pm.

Check into your Ketchum hotel and go out for dinner

Ketchum is the gateway to Sun Valley, the country's first ski resort and one of its most popular, so as you can imagine it's an outdoor lover's dream!

We'll explore the ins and outs tomorrow, but for now it's time to get some dinner.

There are lots of places to grab a bite in the center of Ketchum, from Mexican eateries to casual burger joints to romantic family-run Italian restaurants.

Make your way to the corner of North Main Street and Sun Valley Road to browse your options.

Day 4: Sun Valley - Skiing / fishing / hiking in the great outdoors

Good morning Idaho road trippers!

Today you get to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. What you get up to completely depends on the time of year you've decided to go on your Idaho road trip.

Lucky for you, Sun Valley is fantastic no matter the season, so here's how to make the most of your day:

Sun Valley in winter: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding

With two gorgeous mountains (Dollar Mountain and Bald Mountain) and more than 2,000 acres of snowy terrain, Sun Valley is the ultimate skiing paradise.

Chair lifts start running at 9am, so roll out of bed, layer up, and make your way to Door 2 Door Ski and Snowboard Rental Delivery on 9th Street East, which opens at 8am every day, to pick up all the equipment you need.

From there, it's a 5-minute drive to the Roundhouse Express gondola, which takes you to the base of Bald Mountain.

Spend the day shredding and skiing to your heart's desire, pausing for a warming lunch at Seattle Ridge Day Lodge at the top of the Seattle Ridge chairlift.

Sun Valley in spring/summer: Go mountain biking in Silver Creek

When the ice thaws and the sun comes out, Sun Valley becomes a veritable haven for cyclists.

Whether you like to ride on hardcore, rugged terrain or prefer cruising along gentle trails, there are literally hundreds of miles of mountain biking tracks to choose from.

In the morning, head to Sturtevants of Sun Valley on Ketchum's Main Street, where you can rent a mountain bike starting from $40 for a half-day. (Don't forget a helmet!)

Then pick up some snacks and embark on your mountain biking adventure.

For more ideas on where to go, head to the official Sun Valley tourism website , which has a detailed list of the best trails for every ability.

Sun Valley in Autumn: Go on a hike to see the fall foliage

There's nothing more magical than fall in Sun Valley, when the trees take on lemon yellow and golden hues, turning the landscape into an autumnal dreamland.

Not only is this one of the most beautiful times to visit Sun Valley, but it has the added benefit of being less crowded than in winter or summer, which means you'll have no trouble finding a peaceful hiking trail.

Plus, hotel and restaurant rates tend to drop outside of tourist season, so you'll get more bang for your buck!

The best way to see the beautiful autumnal foliage is by going on a nice long hike.

For a moderate five-mile hike, head to the scenic Proctor Mountain loop, which offers lovely views of Ketchum below.

If you want more of a challenge, try taking on Pioneer Cabin loop, an 8.7-mile trail with steep inclines and rugged terrain.

For driving directions, mapped routes and lots more information about the best hikes in Sun Valley and Ketchum, head to the Hiking Project website .

Go stargazing and spot the Milky Way

After you've warmed up at your hotel, had a hot shower, and eaten some dinner, it's time to do some stargazing.

Sun Valley and Ketchum are part of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve - the only such reserve in the whole country, and one of just 12 in the entire world.

What that means is that, thanks to clear skies and efforts to limit light pollution, the stars here are unusually brilliant, illuminating up the night sky - and there's a good chance you'll be able to see the Milky Way as well.

Unbelievably, a 2016 survey found that 80% of Americans can't view the Milky Way anymore from where they live, so this is an opportunity you won't want to miss.

Day 5: Drive Ketchum to McCall via Sawtooth National Forest

On day 5 of your Idaho road trip, it's time to experience one of America's famous scenic byways - the first of two on this trip.

What is a scenic byway, you ask?

In short, it's a road recognised by the U.S. Department of Transportation as being outstanding for having one or more of these 'intrinsic qualities': cultural, archaeological, historic, recreational, natural, and scenic.

Drive along Sawtooth Scenic Byway

Sawtooth Scenic Byway, which runs through the wild Sawtooth National Recreation Area, starts about an hour northwest of Ketchum by car.

Once you've checked out of your hotel, make your way north along Highway 75 to the town of Stanley.

On your way along the scenic route you'll pass by the panoramic Galena Summit overlook, the glittering Alturas and Redfish Lakes, and the dramatic Sawtooth Mountains

The drive from Ketchum to Stanley takes just over an hour, but allow three so you have time to get out at all the amazing stops along the way.

Have lunch in Stanley, Idaho

Sitting at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains, Stanley is a tiny hamlet (population below 100) and one the last vestiges of the old Idaho frontier.

If you want to extend your Idaho road trip, Stanley is a great place to use as a base for exploring the surrounding area, where you'll find horseback riding opportunities, hiking, and therapeutic hot springs (we highly recommend Goldbug Hot Springs in particular, which is just under 2 hours northeast of Stanley).

Once you reach Stanley, make your way to the super popular Papa Brunee's on Ace of Diamonds Boulevard for lunch.

This laidback eatery specializes in all things pizza, with tonnes of flavors and toppings to choose from.

They also serve up some seriously delicious calzones in unique flavors like the 'Buffalo hot wing' and the 'Stanley Cheesesteak' (made with garlic sauce, sirloin steak, and vegetables).

Grab an ice cream to go at Stanley Scoops next door, then get back in your vehicle and set your Sat Nav for McCall, which is about 3 hours away.

Drive from Stanley to McCall

If all goes to plan, you should arrive in McCall by around 5pm, with plenty of time to do some exploring after you've checked into your hotel and freshened up for the evening.

This lively mountain town sitting on the south shore of Payette Lake is known as the gateway to Ponderosa State Park, yet another one of Idaho's spectacular natural areas.

With golf courses, hiking trails, and lots of opportunities for water sports on the lake, McCall is a popular summer vacation spot for Idahoans and day/weekend trip destination from Boise.

And in the wintertime, the town buzzes with skiers and snowboarders who use McCall as a base as they venture to the surrounding mountains.

Have a walk around town and admire the views of the lake before treating yourself to a hearty dinner.

If you need some food inspiration, My Father's Place has the best burgers around, and Pueblo Lindo is famous for its authentic fajitas and tacos.

Day 6: Spend the day at Ponderosa State Park

After waking up to a croissant breakfast sandwich and lavender latte at Fogglifter Cafe, pick up some picnic food for later at Albertsons grocery store.

Then put on your comfy walking shoes and hiking gear and head to Ponderosa State Park, which covers the majority of a 1,000-acre peninsula jutting into the lake.

With peaceful beaches, a huge network of hiking trails and wildlife galore, it's easy to while away the day exploring this beautiful park.

We do recommend hiking to Osprey Point via the Ridge Line trail to breathe in the fresh air and admire the fantastic views from the overlook.

It's the perfect place to spread a picnic blanket and sit down for some well-deserved lunch.

If you're visiting Idaho in the wintertime, take to the hills in the park for some cross country skiing or snowshoeing.

Stay the night in McCall

In the evening you have the choice of either staying in a hotel back in town, or pitching a tent on a campground in the park itself.

You can also stay in one of the deluxe cabins or yurts near the shores of the lake.

Day 7: Hells Canyon Scenic Byway road trip

To wrap up your epic Idaho road trip, we're taking you to the incredible Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, which is just under 3 hours away.

Plan to leave McCall by 9am so you can make it to Hells Canyon before lunchtime.

The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is a 218-mile-long road in west Idaho and eastern Oregon featuring lush valleys, colorful fields of wildflowers, rugged basalt cliffs and the snow-capped Wallowa Mountains.

Getting to the route can be somewhat confusing for first-timers, as it's not clearly marked on Google Maps.

The road technically starts in Baker City, Oregon, looping northeast through Richland and Halfway to the Hells Canyon dam, then veering west through Joseph and Enterprise before finishing in La Grande.

Coming from McCall, you'll probably want to hop on the route from Oxbow and follow the loop anti-clockwise.

You can download a PDF map of the region on the official Hells Canyon Byway website .

If you were to do it all in one go, the drive would take 6 hours, but we recommend allowing a day and a half to fully enjoy the route.

Some Hells Canyon highlights:

Snake River - You're already familiar with Snake River thanks to your fishing trip on day 2, but in this part of Idaho it's even more spectacular. Watch as the water tumbles through Hells Canyon, North America's deepest canyon.

Hells Canyon Dam - Generally considered one of the best parts of this mini road trip, this colossal concrete dam is built on the Snake River, marking the border between Idaho and Oregon. From here, the views of the canyon are truly spectacular.

Hells Canyon Overlook - With easy parking and lovely picnic areas (plus a bathroom), this is the perfect place to get out, stretch your legs and admire the views. From here, you can see McGraw Creek and look over the canyon at the Seven Devil Mountains.

Wallowa Lake - This deep blue ribbon lake is sometimes referred to as 'The Crown Jewel' or 'The Sapphire in a Sea of Astounding Landscapes'. The surrounding Wallowa Lake State Park is home to lots of activities for the whole family including fishing, horseback riding, mini golf and go-karting.

Stay in Joseph for a night

However you decide to spend your Hells Canyon time, aim to get to Joseph (a town just north of Wallowa Lake) by nightfall so you can check into one of the charming inns and B&Bs there for the night.

The Bronze Antler Bed & Breakfast is handily situated in the center of town and has some elegant guest rooms that are perfect for cozying up after a long day.

Before you nod off, walk north along Main Street to Embers Brewhouse, where you can round out the night with a local beer (or two).

Then stumble back to the B&B and roll into bed.

Day 8: See the rest of Hells Canyon Scenic Byway & return to Boise

Breathe in that fresh mountain air and get ready to hit the road; today is the final driving day of your Idaho road trip!

But don't fret - there's plenty more to do before we send you off home again.

After you've packed up your things and left your hotel room, grab a cup of coffee and a bagel at Old Town Cafe for breakfast.

Go for a stroll in Joseph, which is characterized by an eclectic mix of old-school cowboy charm and modern art.

Now's also a good time to fill up your tank before continuing on with the driving itinerary.

Once you and your vehicle are fuelled up, drive north on Highway 82 to complete your Hells Canyon route.

Drive through Enterprise, Wallowa, Elgin and La Grande

On your way to La Grande at the end of the scenic byway, you'll drive through a number of lovely towns and villages, passing by gorgeous ranches, farmlands, forests, and the ever-present Wallowa River.

Stop at any viewpoints and rest stops that catch your eye, then follow Highway 82 all the way to La Grande, where you can get out for some lunch.

Stop for lunch in La Grande

Thanks to the presence of Eastern Oregon University, La Grande is a bit more vibrant and bustling than the cities you've visited so far on this Idaho road trip.

It was also one of the stops on the Oregon Trail, and you can even see remnants of the historic path traveled by pioneers in La Grande's Oregon Trail Interpretive Park.

Spend an hour so browsing through the city's quaint antiques shops, small museums and independent art galleries before settling in somewhere for lunch.

For an all-American treat, nab a table at Side A Brewing, housed in an old fire station on Washington Ave, which serves up delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients.

Stars of the menu include the Ahi tuna sandwich and the peanut butter bacon burger (trust us!) and we highly recommend getting a helping of Dirty Fries to share.

Last leg of your Idaho road trip: Drive back to Boise

After lunch, it's time to come full circle by driving back down to Boise, where this road trip began. The journey from La Grande to Boise should take you about 3 hours.

You can return your rental car as you won't need to drive from now on; the next day and a half will be spent getting to know Idaho's underrated capital city.

Drop off your vehicle at the airport and then hail a taxi to downtown Boise. It's an easy 10-minute journey to the city center.

Have dinner at every Boise local's favorite restaurant

Once you've found your accommodation for the night and dropped your stuff there, take a walk or a taxi to the corner of North 8th street and West Idaho Street and nab a table for dinner at Fork.

Ask any local where to have dinner in Boise, and chances are they'll recommend this atmospheric gem, which is housed in an elegant old bank building.

Some of the most mouth-watering menu items are the asparagus fries, the glazed Brussels sprouts and the Cubano pulled pork sandwich. Yum!

On your way back to your hotel, take a five-minute walking detour just around the corner to see the famous Idaho State Capital Building all lit up at night.

Day 9: Boise - Make the most of your last day in Idaho

It's the last day of your Idaho itinerary, and there are lots of activities to squeeze in!

Boise truly is an under-the-radar gem of a travel destination, with a lively downtown area that's a joy to explore. Some even say it's the new Portland ... we'll let you judge for yourself!

Grab a coffee at Big City Coffee & Cafe

The delightfully kitschy Big City Coffee & Cafe always attracts morning crowds - and for good reason. They serve up some of the best breakfast offerings in the city, from homemade biscuits and gravy to Belgian waffles and toasted bagels.

Plus, for every can of coffee they sell, the cafe donates $1 to breast cancer detection services. Time to stock up on those Idaho souvenirs!

Get your culture fix at BAM

Once you're suitably caffeinated, walk southeast about 20 minutes from the cafe until you reach the entrance to Julia Davis Park, the location of your next stop: the Boise Art Museum (BAM).

This small but charming art deco-style museum has a wonderful array of fascinating exhibitions centered around contemporary realism, ceramics and fine art, as well as a hands-on activity area for children. There's also a cool sculpture garden out back.

Entry costs $6 for adults and $3 for children between first and 12th grade.

Take a taxi to the Old Idaho Penitentiary

From BAM, hail a taxi or get an Uber to the Old Idaho State Penitentiary, which is about 10 minutes away.

First opened in 1872, this former jail once housed some of the West's most notorious criminals, including a prominent member of Butch Cassidy's gang.

It stopped functioning as a prison in 1973, and these days, you can walk amongst the grounds, gallows and prison cells, imagining what life was like for the inmates way back when.

This may sound like a spooky tourist attraction (and it certainly is), but it's also a fascinating insight into America's penal system over the last century.

The Old Idaho Penitentiary is open 7 days a week from 12pm to 5pm.

Admission costs $6 for adults and $3 for children between the ages of 6 and 12.

Walk along the Greenbelt back to the city center

After you're finished exploring the jailhouse, make your way to the river and walk west along the Greenbelt, a pleasantly serene 30-mile-long pathway that connects many of Boise's best parks and sights.

Visitors and locals alike agree that the Greenbelt is a big part of what makes Boise so special, offering an unusual opportunity to immerse yourself in nature right in the middle of the city. There's a reason Boise is known as 'The City of Trees'!

After about 40 minutes you'll reach Julia Davis Park again, and from there it's a 20 minute walk to your next stop: the Basque Block.

Have lunch on the Basque Block

Bet you didn't know that Boise has one of the biggest Basque populations in the world!

This unique cultural heritage is celebrated and painstakingly preserved on Basque Block, an area of downtown Boise that's home to a historic Basque museum, a cultural center, and a handful of restaurants and bars serving up traditional Basque cuisine.

For lunch, take your pick from the eateries in the area (the Basque Market and Bar Gernika are local favorites). On Saturdays, Bar Gernika serves up a ridiculously popular beef tongue sandwich... get there early to get your order in before they run out!

Go on a brewery crawl

Now that you've lined your stomach with all the Basque food you can eat, it's time for a drink.

The perfect way to round off your trip to Idaho is with a tour of all the best breweries in Boise, many of which are concentrated around the downtown area.

Start with a stroll along Freak Alley, where you'll see an outdoor art gallery of brightly colored graffiti and wall murals adorning the buildings, highlighting the urban, edgy side of Boise.

From there, you're within easy walking distance of many of the city's best breweries including Boise Brewing, White Dog Brewing Co. and the Woodland Empire Brewery.

When the hunger pangs set in again, make your way to one of the many cheap eats options in the city. If you like Mexican food, you can't go wrong at the no-frills Tin Roof Tacos, where tacos cost less than $3 each.

Then roll back to your hotel and get some well-deserved rest before setting off for home tomorrow morning.

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EHS Percussion Ensemble putting Idaho on the map in a new way

I'm the Idaho News 6 neighborhood reporter dedicated to bringing you the latest stories from Star, Eagle, and Northern Meridian.

EAGLE, IDAHO — Eagle High School's Percussion Ensemble will be heading to the WGI World Percussion Championship in Dayton, Ohio this week.

• Eagle High School's group will be the first scholastic team from Idaho to compete in this competition.
• They will perform on Thursday, April 18th at 2:51 central time.
• For more information on the competition click here .
• To view the competition live click here .

( Below is the transcript from the broadcast story)

The Eagle High School Percussion Ensemble is playing its way to the WGI World Percussion Championship in Ohio. I'm your Eagle neighborhood reporter Alexander Huddleston and I met up with the group as they prepare to represent the state in a whole new way.

"Honestly, it didn't feel real," said Sophomore Sophia Meyer.

Junior Parker Greason said, "We’re here to compete and show what we can do."

Years of trophies line the hallways of Eagle High School. This year the school's percussion ensemble is hoping to add a new piece of hardware to the case. The group is heading to the WGI World Percussion Championship this week in Ohio, where they will compete with 6 other units and see over 250 units from around the world perform.

"They are going to have the opportunity to see some of the best percussion ensembles in the world performing," said instructor Rob Sullens.

This will be the first time ever that a scholastic team from the state of Idaho will be performing at this competition.

Greason explained, "It's a crazy thing to be able to represent Idaho for this. Most people are just like Idaho is just some small state. They don't have anything going on. We want to show that Idaho isn't just a side state."

The group knows the pressure is on, but that won't stop them from showing out.

"I'm going to be in front of thousands and thousands of people, and people watching around the world. I'm going to be nervous but I'm super excited," exclaimed Meyer.

They have spent the entire year perfecting the performance and a quite unique performance at that.

"Imagine if Silent Night was for Halloween, but was happening more in December, and then for Here Comes Santa Clause, if Santa Clause originated instead of Germany, in Rio de Janeiro, and has Latin flavors and is really exciting," explained Sullens.

"It's honestly really beautiful because you are making an inanimate object sing, finished Meyer.

The group will be competing in prelims on Thursday, and that will determine if they will move on to finals on Friday.

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Meet your Eagle reporter Alexander Huddleston

Supreme Court allows Idaho to enforce ban on gender-affirming care for minors

A divided Supreme Court on Monday allowed Idaho to proceed with broad enforcement of a new law aimed at prohibiting gender-affirming care for minors .

The decision overrides two lower federal courts that had upheld an injunction against the law as litigation over its constitutionality continues.

The decision was backed by all six of the high court's conservative members. The three liberal justices -- Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson -- indicated they would have kept the law on hold.

"Ordinarily, injunctions like these may go no further than necessary to provide interim relief to the parties," Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote in a statement concurring with the court's decision. "In this case, however, the district court went much further, prohibiting a state from enforcing any aspect of its duly enacted law against anyone."

The court did, however, allow the parents and two children who brought the case against the law to continue to obtain treatments during litigation. The children are said to be seeking puberty blockers and estrogen, which the families and their doctors say are critical for mental health.

In her dissent, Jackson argued the high court should have refrained from intervening in such a high-profile case at an early stage, disrupting what she described as the legal status quo.

"In my view, we should resist being conscripted into service when our involvement amounts to micromanaging the lower courts' exercise of their discretionary authority in the midst of active litigation," Jackson wrote.

In a joint statement, the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU of Idaho called the ruling an "awful result."

"While the court's ruling today importantly does not touch upon the constitutionality of this law, it is nonetheless an awful result for transgender youth and their families across the state," the joint statement read. "Today's ruling allows the state to shut down the care that thousands of families rely on while sowing further confusion and disruption. Nonetheless, today's result only leaves us all the more determined to defeat this law in the courts entirely, making Idaho a safer state to raise every family."

Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador, who had asked the court to allow enforcement, issued a statement following the decision.

"The state has a duty to protect and support all children, and that's why I'm proud to defend Idaho's law that ensures children are not subjected to these life-altering drugs and procedures," he said in a statement. "Those suffering from gender dysphoria deserve love, support and medical care rooted in biological reality. Denying the basic truth that boys and girls are biologically different hurts our kids. No one has the right to harm children, and I'm grateful that we, as the state, have the power -- and duty -- to protect them."

Transgender youth are more likely to experience anxiety, depressed mood, and suicidal ideation and attempts, often due to gender-related discrimination and gender dysphoria, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gender-affirming hormone therapy has been proven to improve the mental health of transgender adolescents and teenagers, according to a recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Major national medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and over 20 others agree that gender-affirming care is safe, effective, beneficial and medically necessary.

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse? Here's when you should look up in your area

On Monday, April 8, the sky will momentarily darken for millions of Americans in the path of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse .

This is the first total solar eclipse to pass through North America in seven years, and the next one will not be seen from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044 , according to NASA .

The exact time the solar eclipse will occur will vary, depending on the state and the time zone. And of course, eclipse visibility will also be dependent on Monday's weather .

Whether you're experiencing the path of totality from home or traveling to witness it in person, here's what to expect for the exact eclipse time.

Solar eclipse 2024 live updates: See latest weather forecast, what time it hits your area

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse?

The eclipse will begin in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday, April 8 before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. Even if you're not in the path of totality and won't see the full eclipse, you may still see a percentage of it.

To find out exactly when the eclipse will be happening in your area, you can search by USA TODAY's database by zip code for a viewing guide.

Even if you still see a fraction of the eclipse, you can use the database to search the time, duration, peak and percentage in your area.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality in the United States (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Where is the 2024 total solar eclipse?

The eclipse begins in Mexico , and then crosses over into the U.S. through Texas. From there, the path of totality, which is approximately 115 miles wide, extends northeast, crossing through 13 states. In the U.S., totality will end in Maine, but the eclipse will eventually enter the maritime provinces of Canada.

Other major cities along the eclipse's path of totality include San Antonio and Austin, Texas; Indianapolis; and Rochester and Syracuse, New York.

Contributing: Eric Lagatta, Ramon Padilla and Karina Zaiets, USA TODAY.

• Solar Eclipse 2024

See How the Solar Eclipse Will Look Anywhere in America

Today's total solar eclipse will cut a 2,000-mile path across the United States in just over an hour, casting near darkness over a region of more than 200,000 square miles from Texas to Maine. The rest of the continental United States — plus Hawaii and a spot of southern Alaska — will enjoy a consolation prize of partial occlusion. The following interactive simulates what this will look like from any location in the U.S., no special glasses needed .

This eclipse is the second time in seven years that such an astronomical rarity has favored a large part of the nation. The August 2017 total solar eclipse — for which TIME rented a private four-seat plane to document the phenomenon — cut a mirroring path from Oregon to South Carolina.

This means there is 9,286 square-mile quadrangle centered on southern Illinois that the cosmos has favored with two complete solar eclipses in less than a decade. As astrophysical odds go, one envies the residents of this anointed parallelogram.

How the simulation works

TIME's solar eclipse simulation uses coordinates for the sun, Earth, and moon from NASA's industrial-grade SPICE toolkit , which we calculated in the J2000 reference frame centered on the Earth. (Many modern calculations use this pre-Copernican view of the cosmos as a matter of convenience.)

Rather than calculating the exact moment that the eclipse begins and ends for thousands of locations, our simulation uses these coordinates to create a realtime 3D simulation with the same type of computer programming that is common in video games. This includes rotating the viewer's camera in accordance with the Earth's rotation over the course of the eclipse, which accounts for why the moon appears to cut a curved path across the sky.

We took a few small artistic liberties in moderately exaggerating the degree of darkness one witnesses in a partial eclipse by adding a faint ambient light to see the surface of the moon in better detail.

Where the times you see in this simulation differ from other sources of eclipse data by a minute or two, the discrepancy is most likely a small difference in the precise location of the calculation or a slightly different way of accounting for the time it takes the speed of light to travel from the sun to the Earth.

More Must-Reads From TIME

• Dua Lipa Manifested All of This
• Exclusive: Google Workers Revolt Over $1.2 Billion Contract With Israel
• Stop Looking for Your Forever Home
• The Sympathizer Counters 50 Years of Hollywood Vietnam War Narratives
• The Bliss of Seeing the Eclipse From Cleveland
• Hormonal Birth Control Doesn’t Deserve Its Bad Reputation
• The Best TV Shows to Watch on Peacock
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Chris Wilson at [email protected]

Watch CBS News

See the full list of past total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 4:36 AM EDT / CBS News

A  rare total solar eclipse was visible in parts of the United States Monday. Those in the path of totality  had the opportunity to see the sun be fully covered by the moon for several minutes.

Total solar eclipses are rare , and aren't often visible from the U.S. The last time one occurred here  was in 2017 , and the U.S. won't see another until 2044 .

Here's a list of all the times a total solar eclipse has been recorded in the United States. 

Total solar eclipse in the U.S. during the 18th century

The first recorded total solar eclipse was in 1778, according to NASA , just a few short years after the United States became an independent country. The eclipse was visible from the Carolinas to New England, and was noted by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, according to Mount Vernon , the museum established in former President George Washington's estate. Troops in Washington's army also noted the event. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 19th century

1806: The first total solar eclipse of the 1800s occurred in 1806, according to the National Parks Service . The path of that eclipse would have crossed from Arizona, through the Midwest and into New England, according to NASA . 

1869: The next total solar eclipse was recorded in 1869. The path of totality stretched from Alaska to the Carolinas, according to NASA . Photos of the event were published in Harper's Magazine, the service said, the first mass publication to do so. 

1878: The next total solar eclipse occurred in 1878, and the path of totality arced from Alaska through Louisiana, according to NASA . It was studied by an all-woman team of astronomers, according to the parks service, and Thomas Edison himself traveled to see the event, bringing scientific equipment to study the sun's corona during the eclipse. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 20th century

1900: The first eclipse of the 20th century was in 1900, according to the parks service. The path of totality of that eclipse brought it over Wadesboro, North Carolina.

1918: In June 1918, a total solar eclipse was visible from Washington to Florida, according to the parks service. It was the last time a total solar eclipse would be visible across the entire continent for nearly 100 years. 

1925: This was followed by another total solar eclipse in January 1925, which was visible from Minnesota through New England, according to NASA . 

1932: In August 1932, another total solar eclipse was visible in North America. The path of totality for this eclipse was mostly in Canada, according to NASA , but was visible in northern New England including parts of Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. 

1963: The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. wasn't until July 1963. This eclipse was visible in Alaska and parts of northern New England, according to NASA . 

1970: In March 1970, another total solar eclipse was visible from the coast of the Southwest United States. Watch CBS News coverage of that event in the video below:

1979: The last eclipse that NASA recorded in the 20th century took place in 1979. This eclipse was visible in the Pacific Northwest and parts of Idaho and the Dakotas, but the path of totality mostly arced through Canada. 

Total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 21st century so far

Only two total solar eclipses have been visible from the United States during the 21st century. The first was the total solar eclipse of 2017 , which was visible across the country . This was the first time such an event had occurred since 1918, and millions gathered to watch . 

The April 8, 2024, eclipse was the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. The path of totality for this eclipse stretched from Texas to the Northeast. The eclipse started  on Mexico's Pacific coast at just after 11 a.m. PDT before traveling across the U.S. and into Canada. The eclipse left North America around 5:19 p.m. EDT. 

The eclipse attracted millions of spectators. Some areas where the event was most visible declared local states of emergency to account for the number of expected visitors. 

When will the next total solar eclipse be visible in the U.S.?

After the April 8 eclipse, the U.S. won't see another total solar eclipse for decades. The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States will occur in August 2044. 

Total solar eclipses typically happen every one to three years somewhere around the globe, but the events are often only visible from Earth's poles or from the middle of the ocean. 

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.