Burley, Idaho is conveniently located less than 30 minutes from the gorgeous Albion Mountains, and one hour from the City of Rocks National Reserve. It is the perfect town to stay comfortably, while exploring the mountains to the south. There are many options for delicious food, and opportunity to learn history about Southern Idaho.
Start your weekend by reserving your rooms at the Best Western Plus Burley Inn Convention Center. This hotel is perfect for the family, or a romantic getaway with you and a loved one. The rooms are newly renovated, the pool is Olympic sized, and the breakfast is included. It is conveniently located near shopping, food, and convenience stores. The newly built Hampton is situated right along the Snake River and features salt water pool, patio and beautifully decorated rooms.
Day 1.
Morning
Start the day off right by walking along Riverside Park Trail in Heyburn. Enjoy gorgeous views of the Snake River and Mount Harrison. The trail and arboretum winds along the river and through a grassy park. Stop by the Mini-Cassia Visitor Center (short for Minidoka and Cassia County). They are your go to place for area information and local gifts.
Dive into history by heading to the the Cassia County Historical Museum. Two train cars are on display here, as well as Indian artifacts, fossils, farm tools, antique clothing, and other household items from years ago. There are many informative signs illustrating what each item’s purpose was, and other interesting facts. Its a great place for dads to geek-out and for the kids to learn!
Afternoon
Grab a tasty lunch at Morey’s Steakhouse! Enjoy the lunch buffet or order a signature Morey’s steak. The reason everyone loves Morey’s is because of their location right on the river. The patio area looking over the Snake River is newly renovated, and is a stunning place for a bite to eat. Enjoy the calming waves flow by as you reflect on everything you’ve already learned today!
Night
Drive up to Lake Cleveland after lunch to explore the mountains! The lake is gorgeous in itself, but hiking around will take you to other views as well. The water is pretty cold even through summer, but a swim on a hot day always feels delightful. Spot beautiful colors of wild flowers and watch the kayakers paddle around. As golden hour sets, find a good place to sit and enjoy the sun go over the mountain ledge. The lake glosses over and the entire night goes still. The drive from Lake Cleveland back to Burley is just under an hour.
Day 2.
Morning
Head to the City of Rocks after grabbing breakfast at Lulu’s, located downtown Burley. They have coffee and a grab-and-go bar of hot breakfast sandwiches and burritos perfect for the road. The City of Rocks National Reserve is an incredible place. It is one of those places you have to see to believe! Granite Spires tower above you, and giant boulders sit randomly along the road. History fills the park too, as it was a major landmark on the California Trail. The road runs through the park and showcases many beautiful views along the way.
Afternoon
Continue exploring by hiking into the depths of the park. There are many trails all around including the most popular; the City of Rocks Loop. It is a 6.3 mile lightly trafficked loop trail that features wildflowers and views. This is a great hike to cut short, or do the entire loop! Bath Rock Trail is neat because it goes in a circle all around Bath Rock! For the adventurous and coordinated, climb up Bath Rock and sit in the water at the top!
Night
Head back to Almo for dinner, snacks, and a gas fill up at Tracy’s General Store. Tracy’s has cooked meals to serve, as well as quick snacks. It is located just minutes from the City of Rocks!
Window Arch is the perfect place to visit for sunset. Walking on top of, or out from the arch shows 360 views of the City of Rocks National Reserve. Explore around the arch and campsites to discover little hidden boulders providing beautiful views of the sunset as well.
If the drive back to Burley doesn’t sound fun after a long day of exploring, a great place to stay nearby is The Almo Inn. The beautiful wooden inn sits below a stunning view of the mountains. The western style hotel rooms are unique and thoughtful. They have rooms for 2 up to 8 – so no family is too large to stay here!
Day 3.
Morning
Visit Castle Rocks State Park for another taste of unique geological wonders. See rock climbers all over and watch as they skillfully excel up the rock walls. The hikes wind in and around the spires, and don’t require as much climbing as the City of Rocks Trails do.
Afternoon
Start driving back to Burley, but don’t forget to stop in the spooky town of Albion on the way home. Try Piggie-Sue’s-BBQ or the cute, new coffee shop, Mads Merc & Soda Fountain. Walk the campus of the Haunted Mansions of Albion. This was an old school that shut down, it is rumored to this day that it is haunted. The buildings are open for tours often, but just walking around the campus feels spooky.
Night
Back in Burley, dine on the water on a fancy boat called the Snake River Queen. This exquisite ride will showcase beauty of the Snake River in Burley, and has views of the Albion Mountains you spent your weekend in. The Snake River Queen is the perfect way to wrap up your weekend in Burley and the City of Rocks. Enjoy your last night in the beautiful, Best Western Plus Burley Inn.
