Melba IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Melba, Idaho.
1. Dedication Point
PANORAMIC CANYON VIEWS
Dedication Point offers expansive views after a short walk through Idaho's rugged landscape. Visitors can often spot wildlife like golden eagles cruising above the cliff edge. The viewing area includes informative displays about the local ecosystem and geology.
2. Cleo's Ferry Museum and Nature Trail
HISTORIC ART-FILLED PATH
Cleo's Ferry Museum and Nature Trail is located at the historic Walter's Ferry Crossing, featuring an original adobe brick building once used by the Ferry Master. The one-mile nature trail showcases an eclectic collection of sculptures, birdhouses, and artistic pieces established by Cleo Swayne in the 1960s. This pleasant area is enjoyable year-round and is particularly magical when lit up during the Christmas holidays.
3. Celebration Park
IDAHO'S OUTDOOR ADVENTURE HUB
Celebration Park is an enchanting destination in Melba that celebrates the beauty of nature through vast green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can participate in activities like atlatl throwing and educational programs highlighting the region's rich history and ecology. The park also offers opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding, making it perfect for a day trip.
4. Danelion Brewery
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Danelion Brewery serves as a popular craft beer destination in the Melba area. Visitors can sample locally brewed beers in a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. The brewery often features seasonal specialties that showcase regional ingredients and brewing traditions.
5. Melba City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
Melba City Park provides a central gathering place for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor recreation. The park features play equipment, picnic facilities, and open green spaces for community activities. It hosts various local events throughout the year, serving as the heart of Melba's community life.
6. Melba Gun Club
SHOOTING SPORTS FACILITY
Melba Gun Club offers facilities for shooting sports enthusiasts in a controlled and safe environment. The club provides ranges for various shooting disciplines and occasionally hosts competitions and training events. Members and visitors can practice their marksmanship while adhering to proper safety protocols.
7. Guffey Butte Trail
SCENIC SNAKE RIVER HIKE
Guffey Butte Trail is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail offering 482 feet of elevation gain near Melba. The trail begins at Celebration Park's parking area on the northeast side of the Snake River, providing hikers with spectacular river views. Dogs are permitted on the trail as long as they are kept on leash.
8. Kuna Caves
UNDERGROUND LAVA TUBE ADVENTURE
Kuna Caves, located near Melba, offers an exciting underground exploration opportunity in a natural lava tube system. Adventure seekers and photographers can discover unique geological formations within this hidden subterranean world. The caves provide visitors with a distinctive experience that showcases Idaho's volcanic history.
9. Wees Bar Petroglyphs
ANCIENT ROCK ART DISPLAY
Wees Bar Petroglyphs features hundreds of ancient carvings on glacial boulders created by Native Americans approximately 12,000 years ago. This remote area near Melba is accessible by bike or foot, starting from the Swan Falls Dam parking lot. The site offers a rare glimpse into the artistic expressions of the region's earliest inhabitants.
10. Swan Falls Dam
HISTORIC POWER GENERATION
Swan Falls Dam stands as a historic hydroelectric facility on the Snake River near Melba. Built in 1901, it was the first hydroelectric dam on the Snake River and continues to generate power today. Visitors can learn about early power generation while enjoying spectacular views of the Snake River canyon.
11. Givens Hot Springs
NATURAL THERMAL POOLS
Givens Hot Springs offers natural mineral-rich thermal pools just a short drive from Melba. The historic hot springs site has been welcoming visitors since 1879, providing a relaxing soaking experience. The facility includes indoor and outdoor pools maintained at a comfortable temperature year-round.
12. Huston Vineyards
SNAKE RIVER VALLEY WINES
Huston Vineyards produces award-winning wines in Idaho's Snake River Valley AVA near Melba. Visitors can sample distinctive wines that showcase the region's unique terroir in a charming tasting room setting. The family-owned vineyard specializes in small-lot productions of varietals particularly suited to the local climate.
13. Ste. Chapelle Winery
IDAHO'S PREMIER WINE DESTINATION
Ste. Chapelle Winery stands as Idaho's largest winery, offering spectacular views of the Sunnyslope Wine Region from its tasting room near Melba. Visitors can sample award-winning wines while enjoying the panoramic vista of vineyards and the Snake River. The winery frequently hosts summer concert series and special events that pair their wines with local cuisine.
14. Map Rock Petroglyph
PREHISTORIC STONE CANVAS
Map Rock Petroglyph features a large basalt boulder covered with ancient carvings that some archaeologists believe depicts a map of the Snake River. Located near Melba, this remarkable artifact provides insight into how indigenous peoples perceived and recorded their landscape. The site is accessible via a short walk from a designated viewing area.
15. The Orchard House
RUSTIC FARM-TO-TABLE DINING
The Orchard House serves delicious farm-to-table cuisine in a converted farmhouse surrounded by orchards near Melba. Diners enjoy seasonal menus featuring locally-sourced ingredients prepared with a creative touch. The restaurant's charming rustic atmosphere and orchard views make it a popular destination for both casual meals and special occasions.