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Idaho

Idaho, United States

Idaho: Where Rugged Beauty Meets Untamed Adventure Forget everything you think you know about "flyover states," because Idaho is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This is a land where towering mountains pierce the c…

#Mountainous#Potatoes#Outdoor recreation#Wildlife#Scenic beauty

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Idaho.

Top Hotels in Idaho

Top Flights to Idaho

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Idaho.

Tours

Exploring the Idaho State Capitol

Visit the grand Idaho State Capitol for a dose of history and architecture. The beautiful building houses the government of the state and is open to the public for tours.

Shopping

Shopping at Boise Towne Square

Explore a variety of shops, from high-end fashion to local boutiques, in Idaho's largest shopping mall located in Boise.

Outdoor

Whitewater Rafting on the Salmon River

Experience the thrills of whitewater rafting on the Salmon River, known as the "River of No Return." Perfect for adventure seekers looking for excitement on the water.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Idaho.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

1.9 million

Languages

English, Spanish

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Idaho.

What people love

Idaho is a beautiful state in the United States that offers a variety of natural landscapes and outdoor activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some pros of traveling to Idaho:

Scenic Beauty: Idaho is known for its stunning natural beauty, including majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests. Visitors can explore places like Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Shoshone Falls, and Coeur d'Alene Lake for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Outdoor Activities: Idaho is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, whitewater rafting, and more. Whether you enjoy hiking in the mountains, fishing in crystal-clear rivers, or skiing in world-class resorts, Idaho has something for everyone.
Wildlife Viewing: Idaho is home to diverse wildlife species, including bears, elk, moose, bald eagles, and more. Visitors can go wildlife watching in places like Yellowstone National Park, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness for a chance to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Local Culture: Idaho has a rich history and vibrant local culture that visitors can experience through museums, art galleries, festivals, and events. You can learn about the state's Native American heritage, pioneer history, and modern-day culture by exploring cities like Boise, Idaho Falls, and Sun Valley.
Food and Drink: Idaho is known for its delicious local cuisine, including fresh produce, farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and wineries. Visitors can sample Idaho potatoes, huckleberries, trout, and other regional specialties while enjoying the state's vibrant food scene.

Overall, Idaho offers a unique travel experience for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the beauty of the American West.

What to know

Traveling to Idaho, United States, does have some potential cons to consider. Here are a few detailed points to keep in mind:

Limited Public Transportation: Idaho is a vast state with a relatively small population. As a result, public transportation options can be limited, especially in more rural areas. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the state fully.
Weather Extremes: Idaho experiences a range of weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for temperature fluctuations and potential weather-related disruptions, especially in the mountainous regions.
Remote Locations: Some parts of Idaho, particularly in the wilderness areas or national parks, can be quite remote. Travelers should plan accordingly with supplies, communication devices, and knowledge of the area.
Outdoor Hazards: Idaho's natural beauty and outdoor activities are a major draw for visitors. However, activities such as hiking, camping, and water sports come with inherent risks. Visitors should be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife encounters, rough terrain, and unpredictable weather.
Tourist Crowds: Popular destinations in Idaho, such as Sun Valley or Coeur d'Alene, can attract large crowds during peak tourist seasons. Travelers looking for a more secluded experience may want to explore lesser-known areas of the state.
Lack of Diversity: Idaho is known for its predominantly white population, which may be a consideration for travelers seeking a more diverse cultural experience. Urban areas like Boise offer more diversity, but overall, the state may not provide the same multicultural environment as other regions.
Limited Nightlife: While Idaho offers plenty of outdoor activities and natural attractions, the state may not have as vibrant a nightlife scene as larger cities or tourist destinations. Travelers looking for a bustling nightlife may find options limited in certain areas.

Overall, while Idaho offers stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, travelers should be aware of these potential cons and plan their trip accordingly to make the most of their visit.

Idaho, located in the northwestern region of the United States, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. Below is a detailed account of its history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Early Inhabitants and Native American Tribes

Early Inhabitants: Before European exploration, the region that is now Idaho was inhabited by several Native American tribes. These included the Nez Perce, Shoshone, Bannock, and Coeur d'Alene tribes. These groups lived by hunting, fishing, and gathering, and they had rich cultural traditions.

European Exploration and Fur Trade

1805: The Lewis and Clark Expedition, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, passed through the area. Their journey brought the first substantial European-American presence to the region and established initial contact with native tribes.
1820s-1840s: The fur trade was a significant early industry. The Hudson's Bay Company and American fur trappers operated in the area, establishing trading posts and routes.

Territorial Period and Settlement

1840s: The Oregon Trail brought pioneers through southern Idaho, although most were headed further west to Oregon.
1860: Gold was discovered near present-day Pierce, sparking the Idaho Gold Rush and leading to rapid settlement and conflict with Native American populations.
1863: Idaho Territory was established by an act of Congress on March 4, carved from parts of Washington Territory. Boise became the territorial capital in 1865.

Statehood and Development

1890: Idaho was admitted to the Union as the 43rd state on July 3. The state's economy at this time relied heavily on mining, agriculture, and timber.

Twentieth Century

1900s-1940s: Idaho's economy diversified with the development of agriculture, bolstered by irrigation projects. The state also saw growth in mining and logging industries.
1941-1945: During World War II, Idaho was home to several military training facilities and internment camps, including Minidoka, which held Japanese Americans forcibly relocated from the West Coast.
1950s-1960s: The construction of the Interstate Highway System improved connectivity and spurred economic growth. The Idaho National Laboratory was established as a leading center for nuclear research.

Modern Idaho

1980s-Present: Idaho has experienced significant population growth and economic development, particularly in technology and manufacturing sectors. The state is known for its outdoor recreation, agriculture, and scenic landscapes.

Significant Historical Figures

Sacagawea: A Shoshone woman who helped guide the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Chief Joseph: Leader of the Nez Perce during their resistance to being forced onto a reservation.
Frank Church: A prominent U.S. Senator from Idaho known for his work on environmental conservation and civil rights.

Important Landmarks

Craters of the Moon National Monument: A unique volcanic landscape in central Idaho.
Shoshone Falls: Often called the "Niagara of the West," located on the Snake River.
Nez Perce National Historical Park: Preserves sites important to the history and culture of the Nez Perce tribe.
Sawtooth National Recreation Area: Offers stunning mountain landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Minidoka National Historic Site: Commemorates the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

Idaho's history is one of transformation, marked by its indigenous roots, the impacts of exploration and settlement, and its evolution into a state with a diverse economy and rich cultural heritage.