The 6 Best Places to Cool Off in the Magic Valley During the Heat

Summer is rolling on, and the temperatures have been higher than most would like. While triple digits here and there are to be expected every summer, seeing it last for consecutive days can take a toll on everyone. You know it's hot when a cooler day is in the high 90s. With so much sunshine, and little relief on the thermostat, many in the Magic Valley are looking for ways to cool off that don't involve running up their bill running the air conditioner all day. Instead of sitting at home in front of the AC, try going to these places to cool off during the hot summer days in the Magic Valley.

The Ice Caves in the Magic Valley

If the thermostat reads triple digits, there is no better place to cool off in the Magic Valley, and maybe in the entire state, than going to the Shoshone Ice Caves. The temperatures will be significantly colder, and you may even need to wear a sweatshirt or jacket, despite it being triple digits. If you want to feel nice and chilly, this is the place to be. It is also a unique experience that everyone should do at least once. 

Swimming in Dierkes Lake

The water in Dierkes Lake is typically pretty chilly and makes for a great place to take a dip and cool off in the summertime. You will have to pay to get to the lake, but you can get a pass and go as much as you want through the season. Kayak, swim, or lay on the lawn. It is a great place to enjoy in the summertime, and the water will help cool you off when the temperature is too much to handle. 

Ritter Island in the Magic Valley

A beautiful hidden gem to cool off at is Ritter Island. The view is spectacular, the grass is mostly shaded, and the water is nice and cool. Take a picnic and make an afternoon of it. You can kayak the area, although be warned the current can be strong. You can relax on a tube if that is more your style, or you can walk and dip in the clear water that is typically chilly. 

Community Pools in the Magic Valley

If you are someone who wants to stay in town or perhaps you are afraid of swimming in lakes and rivers, then you can hit up one of the many community pools in the Magic Valley. No matter if you live in Twin Falls, Filer, Buhl, or one of the other towns in the Magic Valley, many have community pools and offer swimming at a reasonable price. Not everyone has their own pools, and having these community ones offers a great option. 

The South Hills in Idaho

Going into the wilderness might not seem like the best idea when it is triple digits, but the South Hills are typically a decent amount cooler than the rest of the Magic Valley. Get the RV or a tent, and head to the South Hills to escape the heat for a few days, while also enjoying nature and some family time. Kick back and sit in a chair, do some fishing, and enjoy the cooler air and temperatures, and hopefully, when you come back home, it will have cooled off a little bit. 

Blue Heart in Idaho

Similar to other bodies of water listed above, the water in Blue Heart is typically chilly, making it a great place to cool off in the summer. It is one of the most beautiful areas in the Magic Valley with clear water and is a great place to spend an afternoon taking a dip, floating on your kayak, or hanging out on your boat. If you want to escape for a day and cool off at the same time, this might be the best place to go. 

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If you find yourself no longer being able to handle the heat, make sure to check out one of the locations above. There are other places that you can go to, but if they aren't crowded, it is best to keep it to yourself, or soon everyone will be flocking to it. Good luck staying cool in the coming weeks, as the temperatures will remain high, but before we know it, the cooler weather will begin and we will miss the heat once more.