Idaho is full of beautiful small towns that make for the perfect day trip destination. However, there is one tiny historic town in Idaho that should be at the top of almost every list: Riggins. Located in west-central Idaho, this tiny town is truly a remarkable place that must be on your bucket list. From its fascinating history to the most incredible views and thrilling outdoor adventures, Riggins is one area in Idaho that you’ll immediately fall in love with.
Riggins is certainly a tiny town in Idaho. There are approximately 300 individuals who call it home.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Riggins sits adjacent to Hell’s Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America. This tiny town also sits along the beautiful Salmon River, which is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the United States.
Anna Gorin/Moment Via Getty Images
Riggins didn’t always have its current name. In fact, it used to be known as “Gouge Eye.”
alacatr/ iStock Via Getty Images Plus This name originated in 1850 following a bar fight between two men where one man’s eye was close to being gouged out. The men were fighting over a woman of marrying age.
Fortunately, the name was officially changed in the 1900s when the postmaster, whose last name of Riggins, applied for a post office in the town. The request was denied due to the name “Gouge Eye.”
alacatr/iStock Via Getty Images Plus For the request to be approved, they considered naming the town after prominent families in the area, but most of the family names were too common and also denied. However, the name of Riggins, named after the postmaster, was approved and became the official town name.
When visiting Riggins today, you’ll want to spend time outdoors. This tiny historic town in Idaho is known as the Whitewater Capital of Idaho. Rafting and tubing are popular activities in the area.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Fishing, boat rides, and other water sports are also extremely popular and the perfect way to spend the day.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
There are also many hiking trails near Riggins that will help you experience the beauty of the area all year long. If you are looking for a bit of a challenge, check out the Rapid River Trail, an 8.6-mile trail that takes you along the river.
Nicola V/AllTrails For a map of this challenging but worthwhile hike near Riggins, click here.
You may also just want to just sit back and take in the beauty of the area. The entire landscape will leave you inspired.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
If you plan your day trip just right, you can attend one of the many family-friendly events hosted in Riggins every year.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook These events range include the Riggins Rodeo, Salmon River Jet Boat Races, Big Water Blowout, and more.
On your day trip, make sure you stop by Kate’s Cattlemen’s Restaurant. You’ll find all types of entrees on the menu, from delicious omelets to crave-worthy hamburgers. It may just become one of your new favorite places to eat in Idaho!
Dalina Chase/Google
J Lin/Google You can learn more about this restaurant in Idaho here.
No matter if you stay in Riggins for a day or a week, be prepared to fall in love. It’s impossible not to!
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Anna Gorin/Moment Via Getty Images
alacatr/ iStock Via Getty Images Plus
This name originated in 1850 following a bar fight between two men where one man’s eye was close to being gouged out. The men were fighting over a woman of marrying age.
alacatr/iStock Via Getty Images Plus
For the request to be approved, they considered naming the town after prominent families in the area, but most of the family names were too common and also denied. However, the name of Riggins, named after the postmaster, was approved and became the official town name.
Nicola V/AllTrails
For a map of this challenging but worthwhile hike near Riggins, click here.
These events range include the Riggins Rodeo, Salmon River Jet Boat Races, Big Water Blowout, and more.
Dalina Chase/Google
J Lin/Google
You can learn more about this restaurant in Idaho here.
Have you spent time in the tiny historic town of Riggins, Idaho? If so, what are your favorite things to do? Where do you love to go? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments!
If you are looking for another fun thing to do in Riggins, check out the Idaho Banana Co., a quirky gift shop that’s worth a stop.
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Address: Riggins, ID 83549, USA
