Idaho

United States of America
Boise featuring a park and fall colors
Embrace your wild side in this breathtakingly scenic state dominated by the dramatic and often isolated wildernesses of the Rocky Mountains.

One of the great mysteries of Idaho is that it remains a little-known state that makes it onto few tourist itineraries. Disappear into its spectacular mountains with barely any impact from development and explore idyllic landscapes in a stunning state that still feels undiscovered. The “Gem State” is just that, a hidden jewel among the western states that beckons to intrepid visitors seeking an escape into nature.

Roam through a landscape that was explored by Lewis and Clark in the early 1800s on their famous journey west. Ancient rock carvings known as petroglyphs, found at places such as Celebration Park, speak of the indigenous inhabitants of Idaho who lived here as long as 12,000 years ago.

Most of Idaho’s major cities are located in the south of the state, between the mountains and the desert. Spend time in Boise, the welcoming capital city, where you can enjoy wineries, bourbon distilleries and botanical gardens. The Idaho State Historical Museum is one of the best museums in the region and gives a fascinating overview of local history.

Bring your camera to the untamed, untouched wildernesses of Idaho. Places such as Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Shoshone Falls and Snake River Canyon have vistas of awe-inspiring beauty. Climb dozens of peaks that reach heights of over 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) or ride a raft down white-water rapids.

Unwind in natural hot springs that bubble up through the mountains. Destinations such as Kirkham and Burgdorf offer serene spas in tranquil, secluded settings.

Winter in Idaho comes with the opportunity to speed down the mountains on skis and snowboards. Find resorts in Schweitzer Mountain, Brundage Mountain and Farragut State Park and spend your days carving up fresh powder.

One of the best ways to reach and explore Idaho is by driving. Revel in the scenery of routes such as the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway and the Sawtooth Scenic Byway, which wind through mountains and alongside glimmering lakes. Come in every season to see Idaho in all its different colors.

Popular cities in Idaho

Boise featuring a park and fall colors
Boise
Known for Rivers, Sports and Universities
The City of Trees is Idaho’s capital and largest city, known for its natural beauty, outdoor pursuits and museums.

Reasons to visit

  • Boise State University
  • Albertsons Stadium
  • Boise Depot
Harrison showing tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole
Coeur d'Alene
Known for Friendly people, Excursions and Lakes
Enjoy the tranquil ambiance of this city, surrounded by a vast lake, a mountainous forest and picturesque countryside.

Reasons to visit

  • Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course
  • McEuen Park
  • Coeur d'Alene Parkway State Park
Twin Falls featuring a small town or village and signage
Twin Falls
Known for Dining, Waterfalls and Shopping
Nature has been kind to Twin Falls, gifting it with one of the world’s highest waterfalls, a river canyon and thousands of fossils.

Reasons to visit

  • Shoshone Falls
  • Snake River Canyon Trail
IPhone panorama of Osprey Point in Ponderosa State Park. Great place to camp with lots of easy hiking trails. You can drive to this point but I recommend you hike or take a bike ride. Worth the view.
#take a hike
McCall
Known for Lakes, Family-friendly and Skiing
McCall awaits: its camping, lake views, skiing, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Payette Lake
  • Ponderosa State Park
Idaho Falls showing a river or creek and a garden
Idaho Falls
Known for Waterfalls, Dining and Rivers
With the conveniences of a city but relaxing feel of a country town, this is the perfect base to explore the wonders of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks.

Reasons to visit

  • Idaho Falls Greenbelt Trail
Sun Valley Ski Resort featuring mountains, snow and snow skiing
Ketchum
Known for Skiing, Walking and Mountains
Come to Ketchum and enjoy its skiing, mountain views, and sunsets.

Reasons to visit

  • Big Wood Golf Course