Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Cascade, ID

  • Published 2023/02/13

Are you looking for a great place to get away and explore?

Then look no further than Cascade, Idaho!

This small city is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

It offers plenty of activities for tourists and residents alike.

The city of Cascade sits right on the majestic Cascade Lake, with the beautiful Idaho mountains encircling the area.

Cascade, Idaho, is about outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, ATV trails, rafting, etc.

From excellent hiking trails to world-class resorts, there is something for everyone in Cascade.

So what are the best things to do in this breathtaking place?

This article will share the ten best things to do while in Cascade, Idaho.

So pack your bags and get ready for a fun and exciting adventure!

Experience the Adrenaline at Kelly’s Whitewater Park

People getting ready for whitewater rafting at Kelly's Whitewater Park

Joshua Denniley / Shutterstock.com

Better known locally as “KWP,” Kelly’s Whitewater Park is a must-visit for any water-loving thrill seeker.

It’s one of the best places to get your adrenaline pumping in Cascade, Idaho.

Aerial view of Kelly's Whitewater Park

Joshua Denniley / Shutterstock.com

The best time to visit KWP is the summer when the water is warm, and the sun is out.

However, the park remains open in the winter, offering a different experience with its frozen waves.

Whether you’re an experienced whitewater paddler or just looking to try something new, Kelly’s Whitewater Park is the perfect place for you.

Come down and experience the thrill of whitewater rafting in Cascade, Idaho.

You can relax, play, or participate in all the fun and exciting water activities.

Located on the city’s east side, KWP is a man-made whitewater park created in 2010.

It offers various water activities, such as surfing, kayaking, tubing, and, of course, whitewater rafting.

Get Ready for Fishing at Tackle Tom’s

Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and there is no better place to do it than Lake Cascade.

Before you head down there, get some great fishing equipment and gear at Tackle Tom’s.

This family-owned and operated bait and tackle shop has served the Cascade community for decades.

They have everything you need for a great day out on the lake, including bait, tackle, rods, etc.

The store also offers fishing options, including fly fishing, bait casting, and spin casting.

They also have a wide selection of lures and bait for you to choose from.

Tackle Tom’s even offers lessons for all levels if you are new to fishing.

The shop also has equipment rentals if you don’t have your own.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro angler, stop by Tackle Tom’s.

Have a Fun Time at Armstrong Park & Playground

Bring your kids to the Armstrong Park & Playground.

It’s the perfect place for them to let loose and have some fun while you take a break.

The Armstrong Park & Playground has everything a modern park should have: picnic tables, benches, public restrooms, and children’s playground facilities.

It also has an open field and a walking trail perfect for an afternoon stroll or a game of catch.

The playground has a variety of equipment for kids to play on.

There is something for everyone, from slides and swings to monkey bars and climbing structures.

When the kids get tired of playing, they can always go for a swim in the pool at the Cascade Aquatic Center right next to the park.

The picnic area is the perfect place for family lunch or dinner.

You can even have a cookout at the park’s charcoal grills.

The Armstrong Park & Playground is free for everyone.

The best part about the park is that it is right in the center of Cascade, so you can easily walk to other attractions after a few hours of play.

Get a Hole-in-One at the Lake Cascade Golf Course

You need to check out the Lake Cascade Golf Course if you love golf.

It’s one of the most scenic golf adventures you will ever experience.

The Cascade Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course that sits right on the shores of Lake Cascade.

It offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the lake.

The well-maintained course offers a challenge for all levels of golfers.

The course offers private lessons with PGA professionals if you want to up your game.

They also have a pro shop on site where you can buy golf clubs, balls, and other equipment.

The best time to play golf at the Cascade Golf Course is early morning or late afternoon.

The rates are reasonable, with plenty of discounts for juniors and seniors.

If you’re looking for a great place to play golf while in Cascade, Idaho, check out the Lake Cascade Golf Course.

You won’t be disappointed.

Take a Hike through Lake Cascade State Park

The Lake Cascade State Park is one of Idaho’s best-kept secrets.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by visiting this state park.

The Lake Cascade State Park is a popular spot for camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Several trails wind through the park, so you can explore all that it offers.

The Lake Cascade State Park lets you be one with nature and rediscover your place in the environment.

Enjoy a picnic with family, or go swimming, sailing, or windsurfing.

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or an adventure to seek, Lake Cascade State Park is the perfect spot for you.

Drop by while you’re in Cascade, Idaho.

Check Out the Trail Creek Hot Springs

Daytime view of Trail Creek Hot Springs

drewthehobbit / Shutterstock.com

Located in a beautiful canyon, the Tail Creek Hot Springs offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The best time to visit the Tail Creek Hot Springs is the summer when the water is warmest.

However, you can also visit when snow covers the hot springs in the winter.

Either way, you’re sure to enjoy the stunning views and relaxing waters of the Tail Creek Hot Springs.

Relax and Unwind at Water’s Edge RV Resort

On the edge of the city, right off the famous Highway 55, Water’s Edge RV Resort is the perfect place to set up camp while you’re in Cascade.

At the Water’s Edge RV resort, you can relax and unwind while surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains of Idaho.

This RV resort offers full hookups, so you can have all the amenities of home while you’re on vacation.

In addition, the Water Edge RV resort offers various amenities, such as RV campsites, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, and a hot tub.

They also have a General Store on-site where you can buy groceries, souvenirs, and other items.

The Water’s Edge RV resort also offers outdoor activities such as fishing, birdwatching, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, etc.

Located on the Payette River, have a great time with family and friends.

At the same time, you stroll through the edge leading to the sparkling Lake Cascade.

If you’re into cinnamon rolls, then you’ll be happy to know that the resort offers these tasty treats to guests every Saturday morning.

They often distribute their iconic cinnamon rolls by the Payette River.

Water’s Edge RV Resort is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a place close to all the action but still offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.

So if you’re in Cascade, Idaho, and need a place to stay, check out (or rather, check-in) the Water’s Edge RV Resort.

Play Ball at the Cascade Sports Park

The Cascade locals love baseball, football, and kickball.

That’s why it’s no wonder why the city has a place where you can play or watch all of these sports.

Home of the Ramblers football team, the Cascade Sports Park is the city’s official sports complex.

It features a baseball diamond, a football field, and a kickball field.

The Cascade Sports Park is a great place to come and watch a game or two.

If you’re feeling competitive, though, you can join a game of kickball or baseball.

The park also has a playground for the kids and a picnic area to relax and enjoy the beautiful Cascade, Idaho scenery.

Whether you’ve come to play or watch all the action, the Cascade Sports Park is perfect for experiencing the city’s rich sports culture.

Get Fit at the Cascade Aquatic and Rec Center

Who said traveling and fitness don’t mix?

If you’re looking to stay active while in Cascade, Idaho, then head to the Cascade Aquatic and Recreation Center.

This recreation center has everything a fitness enthusiast needs, from a weight room and cardio equipment to an indoor pool and basketball courts.

They also offer various fitness classes, such as yoga and Pilates.

You’ll love the Cascade Aquatic and Rec Center’s year-round geothermal heated pools if you’re into swimming.

No matter the season, you’ll enjoy its comfortable waters.

The Cascade Aquatic and Rec Center is the perfect place to get your workout in while you’re on vacation.

If you’re looking to break a sweat and be active in Cascade, the Cascade Aquatic and Rec Center is the perfect place for you.

Spend a Night or Two at the Alpine Lodge and RV Park

If you’re looking for a place to stay that’s close to all the action but still offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, then look no further than the Alpine Lodge and RV Park.

This lodge is nestled in the heart of Cascade, Idaho.

It is just minutes away from all the city’s best attractions.

The lodge offers different accommodations, such as RV sites, cabins, and suites.

The Alpine Lodge and RV Park also has various amenities, such as a swimming pool, hot tub, and souvenir shop.

The rooms are also fully furnished with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

The outdoor area is also a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature and the city.

If you’re looking for a place to stay that offers both peace and tranquility, then the Alpine Lodge and RV Park is perfect.

You’ll fall in love with the place and its surroundings.

Ride a Horse at the 4D Longhorn Guest Ranch

The best way to see the true beauty of Cascade, Idaho, is from the back of a horse.

There’s no better place to go horseback riding than the 4D Longhorn Guest Ranch.

Nestled in the scenic mountains of Cascade, Idaho, the 4D Longhorn Guest Ranch is a working ranch.

It offers horseback riding lessons and trail rides ranging from one hour to a full day.

The ranch also offers various horses to choose from to find the perfect horse for your riding style.

If you want the authentic cowboy experience, look no further than the 4D Longhorn Guest Ranch.

The place has various lodging options, such as cabins, RV sites, and tent sites.

So whether you’re looking for a place to stay or just want to go for a horseback ride, head to the 4D Longhorn Guest Ranch.

Go On a Water Adventure at the Confluences River Expeditions

Hook up with the Confluences River Expeditions if you’re looking for a fun and adventurous activity.

This company offers various river rafting and kayaking trips, plus canoe and SUP rentals.

The Confluences River Expeditions offer various trips if you want to try intense river rafting.

These rafting trips range from beginner-level to advanced, so find the perfect trip for your skill level.

Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a first-time paddler, the Confluences River Expeditions should be your next outdoor stop.

Go on a Rustic Camping Adventure at Van Wyck Campground

If you want access to Lake Cascade while experiencing the rustic lakefront ambiance of the city, Van Wyck Campground is an easy choice.

This campground is right by Lake Cascade and offers amazing grounds for you to pitch your tent or your recreational vehicle.

The scenery is unparalleled and there’s a lot to do throughout your camping, with kayaking being some of the most popular.

Even if you don’t have a lot of equipment, Van Wyck Campground has a lot of rentals and some camping utilities like wood that are offered.

A must-try for camping enthusiasts, Van Wyck Campground can be visited along Lake Cascade Parkway.

Trek through Crown Point Trailhead

Another great trail that you should consider during your trip to Cascade is the Crown Point Trailhead located on the northern part of the city.

Crown Point Trailhead offers beautiful woodlands while having lakefront access to Cascade Lake.

It’s a lot less known compared to the state parks in the city, so it’s a great hidden gem if you want a more private experience.

You’ll have beautiful views here of the lake, accentuated further by the sheer amount of rock formations and large clusters of trees found at this trail.

If you’re bringing a bicycle with you, it’s also a nice place for biking.

Crown Point Trailhead can be accessed along Crown Point Parkway.

Take a Break at Fischer Pond

Fischer Pond is another hidden gem in Cascade that mostly only locals know.

Tucked in the corners of Main Street, you won’t have to venture far from the epicenter of the city to experience the natural beauty of Fischer Pond.

Depending on the season you go, Fischer Pond’s aesthetic changes, with winter and spring being some of the best.

During winter, this place becomes clad in snow, making it a haven for snowball fights, snowman building, and a bit of sledding.

Spring is also a great time to visit this pond, as it’s brimming with botanical life and it’s also right by the Payette River.

Experience Campbell Creek at Skein Lake Trailhead

Deep in the woodlands of Cascade lies another underrated trail—Skein Lake Trailhead.

Skein Lake Trailhead is found on the more secluded side of Lake Cascade, opposite from where Lake Cascade State Park is.

This makes this area a must for seasoned hikers and outdoor adventurers, as it’s brimming with all sorts of natural wonders.

Unlike other trailheads, this one has a bit of elevation, making it more of a hike that’ll take you to some amazing vistas.

The main prize of venturing through this trailhead is the area of Campbell Creek and other surrounding bodies of water like Skein Lake and Raft Lake.

Go on a Scenic Camp at Ridgeview Campground

Ridgeview Campground is another great campsite in Cascade that offers something different compared to the others.

Not as rustic as Van Wyck Campground, this makes it a family-oriented area where you can see sweeping views of the lake with beautiful, well-maintained walking trails and wooded areas.

Because it doesn’t have a lot of dense forestry, Ridgeview Campground has sweeping views of the sky as well—perfect for landscape photography.

There’s also a nice sandy beach here that’s perfect for younger children, especially if you’re intending to go kayaking anyways.

Located along Shore Drive, give Ridgeview Campground a shot if you want a scenic camping experience with family or friends.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Visit the Idaho Potato Museum

Welcome sign of Idaho Potato Museum

Michael Vi / Shutterstock.com

Did you know that Idaho produces more potatoes than any other state in the US?

If you’re a fan of potatoes, you’ll want to visit the Idaho Potato Museum.

Exterior of Idaho Potato Museum

KRRK at English Wikipedia, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

This museum covers all things potato, from the history of how they were first cultivated to the different ways they are used today.

The museum also has various exhibits, such as the world’s largest potato chip and the world’s smallest potato.

Suppose you want to experience a fun and educational activity.

In that case, the Idaho Potato Museum is the perfect place for you.

You’ll learn all about the history and cultivation of potatoes and how they are used today.

A sign post of Idaho Potato Museum

Michael Vi / Shutterstock.com

Visit the Warhawk Air Museum

Exterior of Warhawk Air Museum

Tamanoeconomico, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Warhawk Air Museum is a great place for any history buff or aviation enthusiast.

This museum is dedicated to the history of World War II aviation and features various aircraft, such as the B-17 Flying Fortress and the P-51 Mustang.

An aircraft in Warhawk Air Museum

K. K. Murray, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum also has a variety of different exhibits, such as a replica of the D-Day invasion and a display of WWII memorabilia.

The Warhawk Air Museum is the perfect place to learn all about the history of WWII aviation and see some of the most iconic aircraft from the war.

Aircraft displayed in Warhawk Air Museum

K. K. Murray, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Take a Hike through Ponderosa State Park

Scenic view of the lake from Ponderosa State Park

BlisfulBreeze / Shutterstock.com

Ponderosa State Park is a must-see for any nature lover.

This park is home to various hiking trails and a lake where you can go swimming, fishing, and canoeing.

A boardwalk at Ponderosa State Park

BlisfulBreeze / Shutterstock.com

The park also has various wildlife, such as deer, elk, and bald eagles.

Are you looking for a place to get away from the city and explore the great outdoors?

Ponderosa State Park should be your next stop.

A trail at Ponderosa State Park

Charles Knowles / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

While Cascade, Idaho, is a small town, it offers plenty of things to do.

This magical place has something for everyone, from horseback riding and swimming to hiking and fishing.

If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of big city life, then mark Cascade, Idaho, as your next destination.

It’s a hidden gem waiting for you.

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