Idaho. An underrated state with endless opportunities to recreate in any season. It’s the place we call home and the place that we love to explore. Let’s be honest – we love all things Idaho.

We wanted to share some of the places we enjoy adventuring in with you since we get a lot of questions. So, welcome to our series on all things Idaho! We hope you enjoy learning a bit more about this great state and all the gems – hidden and obvious – you can find here.

Bonneville Hot Springs in Fall - Idaho

Brief History of Idaho

Idaho is a state located in the northwestern region of the United States. The region that is now Idaho was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce, Shoshone, and Bannock.

Couple looking out onto the Payette River in summer. All Things Idaho

In 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the area, and in the early 19th century, fur traders and missionaries began to arrive. The Oregon Trail, a major westward migration route, also passed through Idaho in the mid-19th century.

In 1863, Idaho Territory was established, which included parts of present-day Montana and Wyoming. Boise was designated as the territorial capital. Idaho became the 43rd state to join the Union on July 3, 1890.

Sawtooth Mountains in Stanley, Idaho

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, mining became a significant industry in Idaho. The discovery of gold in the 1860s led to a mining boom, and silver, lead, and other minerals were also extracted from the state’s mountains.

In the 20th century, Idaho’s economy diversified, with agriculture and manufacturing becoming important industries. The state is known for its potato production, and also produces wheat, barley, and other crops.

Idaho played a significant role in the development of nuclear energy during the Cold War. The Idaho National Laboratory, located in the southeastern part of the state, was a major research site for nuclear technology.

Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls, Idaho

Today, Idaho is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and conservative politics. The state has a population of around 1.8 million people, and its largest city is Boise.

Recreating in Idaho

Couple standing next to a Razr in the fall - Cascade, Idaho

Idaho offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors and residents alike. Here are some of the most popular:

  1. Outdoor activities: Idaho is known for its stunning natural beauty, which makes it a prime destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. Some of the most popular outdoor destinations include the Sawtooth Mountains, the Snake River, and Hells Canyon.
  2. Skiing and snowboarding: Idaho is home to several ski resorts, including Sun Valley, which is one of the oldest and most renowned ski resorts in the country. Other popular resorts include Bogus Basin, Brundage Mountain, and Tamarack Resort.
  3. Water sports: With numerous lakes and rivers, Idaho offers plenty of opportunities for water-based activities such as swimming, boating, waterskiing, and kayaking.
  4. Golf: Golfers can enjoy a variety of courses throughout the state, including championship courses designed by renowned golfers like Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones Jr.
  5. Cultural activities: Idaho is home to several museums and cultural institutions, including the Idaho State Museum, the Boise Art Museum, and the Idaho Botanical Garden.
White water park in Boise, Idaho
Winter on the middle fork of the Boise River - All Things Idaho

We feel so fortunate to live in an area that offers so many opportunities to get outside and explore. Our next post will focus on some of our favorite winter activities…..camping (yes, winter camping!), snowshoeing, and hot springing!

You can also read some of our past posts on this topic here!