Area: 83,569 sq mi (216,443 km²) — 14th largest state
Flag of Idaho
Geography
Location: Idaho is located in the northwestern region of the United States, bordered by Canada to the north, Montana to the east, Wyoming to the southeast, Nevada and Utah to the south, and Oregon and Washington to the west.
Major Landforms:
Rocky Mountains: The Rocky Mountain range extends through much of Idaho, offering rugged peaks, valleys, and scenic vistas.
Snake River: This river runs through the state, providing fertile land for agriculture and beautiful canyon landscapes, including the famous Snake River Canyon.
Shoshone Falls: Known as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is higher than Niagara Falls and one of the state’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Great Basin: The southern part of the state is part of the Great Basin, a vast area of desert landscapes, particularly in the Owyhee Desert.
Climate: Idaho experiences a continental climate with cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. The state’s climate can vary significantly depending on altitude, with the mountainous regions being cooler and wetter than the lower valleys.
Economy
GDP (2023): ~$27 billion
Major Industries:
Agriculture: Idaho is known for its potato farming, producing some of the best potatoes in the country. Other agricultural products include wheat, sugar beets, and dairy.
Mining: The state has a rich mining history, particularly for silver, gold, and lead. The Coeur d’Alene Mining District has historically been one of the richest silver mining areas in the world.
Technology and Manufacturing: In recent years, Idaho has experienced growth in the technology sector, especially in Boise, which is becoming a tech hub. The state also has a strong manufacturing base, including food processing, electronics, and machinery.
Tourism: With its natural beauty, national forests, and outdoor recreational opportunities, tourism is a significant part of the state’s economy.
Key Exports: Potatoes, wheat, dairy products, and machinery.
Demographics
Diversity:
Ethnic Breakdown:
White: 82%
Hispanic/Latino: 13%
Native American: 2%
Asian: 1%
Black/African American: 1%
Other/Mixed: 1%
Languages: English is the primary language spoken, with a growing Spanish-speaking population, particularly in agricultural regions.
Religions: The majority of Idahoans are Christians, with a significant population identifying as Mormon (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). There is also a smaller population of non-religious individuals and people practicing other faiths.
History
Native American Heritage: Idaho was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce, Shoshone, and Bannock peoples. These tribes were primarily hunter-gatherers, utilizing the abundant natural resources of the region.
Lewis and Clark Expedition: In 1805, Lewis and Clark passed through Idaho on their westward journey to the Pacific. They encountered the Shoshone people and the famous Lemhi Pass, a key location for their exploration.
Mining and Statehood: In the 1860s, Idaho experienced a mining boom, particularly in the Clearwater and Salmon River regions, attracting settlers and shaping the state’s economic and cultural development. Idaho became a state on July 3, 1890, after a period of rapid settlement and growth.
World War II: During World War II, the state played a significant role in the war effort, with several military bases and defense installations established in Idaho.
Culture and Landmarks
Shoshone Falls: Known as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is a stunning 212-foot waterfall on the Snake River, located near Twin Falls. It is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Idaho.
Sun Valley Resort: A world-renowned ski resort located in the Sawtooth Mountains, Sun Valley has attracted numerous celebrities over the years and remains a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor recreation.
Boise: The state capital and largest city, Boise is known for its vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and access to outdoor activities. It is also becoming a growing tech and cultural hub in the region.
Craters of the Moon National Monument: This otherworldly landscape is the result of volcanic activity, featuring expansive lava fields, craters, and unique geological formations.
Sawtooth National Recreation Area: With over 700 miles of trails, this vast recreation area offers hiking, camping, fishing, and stunning views of Idaho’s rugged mountains.
Idaho State Capitol: Located in Boise, the Idaho State Capitol building is a beautiful example of classical architecture, serving as the seat of government in the state.
Hells Canyon: The deepest river gorge in North America, Hells Canyon offers breathtaking views and a range of outdoor activities, including rafting, hiking, and camping.
Famous People from Idaho
Ernest Hemingway: The famous author spent much of his later life in Ketchum, Idaho, where he is buried. His time in Idaho inspired parts of his writing, particularly in his novel A Farewell to Arms.
Gilda Radner: A beloved comedian and one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live, Gilda Radner was born in Detroit but grew up in Idaho.
Tommy Caldwell: A world-renowned rock climber, Caldwell is known for his achievements on El Capitan in Yosemite National Park and has brought attention to Idaho’s natural beauty through his climbing expeditions.
Sarah Palin: Former governor of Alaska and vice-presidential candidate in 2008, Sarah Palin grew up in Idaho before moving to Alaska.
Steve Jobs: While not a native, Steve Jobs lived in Idaho for a short time during his early years and spent time at a cabin in the area.
Fun Facts
The “Gem State” Nickname: Idaho is known as the “Gem State” because it produces a variety of gemstones, including garnets, opals, and star garnets, which is the state gemstone.
World’s Largest Potato Museum: Located in the town of Blackfoot, Idaho, the World’s Largest Potato Museum celebrates the state’s most famous crop: the potato.
Hidden Hot Springs: Idaho is home to a large number of natural hot springs, many of which are tucked away in the state’s remote forests and mountains.
Largest City by Population: Boise, the state’s capital, is the largest city in Idaho, but much of the state is sparsely populated, with vast stretches of wilderness.
Lewis and Clark Expedition: The expedition passed through Idaho on their way west, with notable events occurring in the region, including their interaction with the Shoshone people.
State Symbols
State Bird: Mountain Bluebird
State Flower: Syringa
State Tree: Western White Pine
State Animal: American Bison
State Fish: Cutthroat Trout
State Song:Here We Have Idaho
Outdoor Activities
Hiking and Camping: Idaho offers a wealth of outdoor activities, with extensive wilderness areas, including the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness.
Fishing and Boating: With more than 3,000 miles of rivers and over 100,000 lakes, Idaho is a paradise for anglers and boaters.
Skiing and Snowboarding: With famous ski resorts like Sun Valley and Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Idaho offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country.
Whitewater Rafting: The Salmon River is famous for its wild rapids, offering thrilling whitewater rafting experiences for both beginners and experts.
Hunting: Idaho is known for its excellent hunting opportunities, with an abundance of game, including elk, deer, and moose.
Education
Notable Universities:
The University of Idaho, located in Moscow, is the state’s flagship public university, known for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and law.
Boise State University, located in the state capital, is known for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in business, education, and engineering.
Idaho State University, located in Pocatello, offers a range of academic programs, particularly in health sciences and engineering.
