Idaho's Hidden Gems: A Journey Beyond Potatoes

“Idaho, where the mountains meet the sky, rivers carve paths of adventure, and every sunrise illuminates a landscape rugged and refined.”

Welcome to “50at60” – my personal quest to explore and cherish the diverse beauty of all 50 states as I celebrate my 60th year. In each of these posts, I am sharing some pre-trip research as a kind of a “virtual journey” through each and every state, exploring its stunning landscapes, charming small towns, scenic drives, and remarkable sites. From breathtaking natural wonders to hidden gems in quaint towns, these posts are a mosaic of what makes each state unique and captivating.

My passion for discovery drives this journey, especially towards the serene allure of small towns. As you read on, you’ll find a collection of photographs coupled with an artistic collage and “Must See” lists, both created with the help of AI. These posts are intended to simply serve as a start and jumping off point to further exploration. My goal in this series of “States within the USA” posts has been to capture the essence of each unique state, while creating a source to help all of us plan our journey into and through this amazing country we call the United States of America!

Join me in experiencing the splendor and spirit of every corner of our magnificent country in “50at60.” Now lets get started with Idaho!

Idaho – “The Gem State”

Embark on a surprising journey through Idaho, a state often synonymous with its famous potatoes but offering so much more. Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho is a treasure trove of natural wonders, from pristine lakes and roaring rivers to expansive wilderness areas and scenic mountain ranges.

As we explore beyond the fields of its iconic crop, we’ll discover the stunning landscapes of Sun Valley, the serene beauty of Coeur d’Alene, and the rugged charm of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

Idaho produces one-third of all potatoes grown in the United States.
It is the only state in the U.S. to have an official State Raptor, the peregrine falcon.
Hell’s Canyon is the deepest gorge in America.

Idaho’s outdoor adventures are as diverse as its scenery, offering everything from world-class skiing to tranquil hiking trails and exhilarating whitewater rafting.

Join me as we delve into the heart of the Gem State, uncovering the hidden beauties and unique experiences that make Idaho a destination full of unexpected discoveries and adventures. These lists highlight Idaho’s unique landscapes, rich history, and charming small towns, offering a variety of experiences for visitors.

Historic Landmarks and Monuments in Idaho

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve: A unique volcanic landscape with significant geological formations.
Sun Valley Resort: A historic and iconic ski resort known for its celebrity visitors and scenic beauty.
Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site, Boise: Offers a glimpse into the history of the corrections system in the Old West.
Cataldo Mission (Old Mission State Park): The oldest building in Idaho and an important site for Native American and Jesuit history.
Minidoka National Historic Site: Commemorates the history of Japanese American internment during WWII.
Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, Boise: An educational park inspired by Anne Frank’s faith in humanity.
Lemhi Pass: Historic trail and Lewis and Clark Expedition landmark.
Wallace Historic District: Known for its silver mining history and beautifully preserved buildings.
Nez Perce National Historical Park: A park that preserves sites associated with the history and culture of the Nez Perce tribe.
City of Rocks National Reserve: Offers unique geological formations and a rich history of westward migration.

Scenic Drives and Road Trips in Idaho

Sawtooth Scenic Byway: Winds through the beautiful Sawtooth Mountains and past alpine lakes.
Route of the Hiawatha Mountain Bike Trail: Known for its scenic views, tunnels, and trestle bridges.
Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway: Showcases Idaho’s mountain beauty, from Boise to Stanley.
Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway: Offers views of Idaho’s varied volcanic landscapes.
Northwest Passage Scenic Byway: Traces the route of Lewis and Clark through Idaho’s stunning river canyons.
Thousand Springs Scenic Byway: Features numerous waterfalls and springs along the Snake River.
Selkirk Loop: A scenic drive that extends into Northern Idaho and Canada, known for its wildlife and natural beauty.
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: Circles the deepest river gorge in North America, offering dramatic views.
Lolo Pass: A mountain pass on the Idaho-Montana border with historical significance and natural beauty.
Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway: Highlights the majestic Snake River Canyon and Shoshone Falls.

Best Small Towns in Idaho

Ketchum/Sun Valley: A renowned ski resort town with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene.
McCall: A picturesque lakeside town known for its winter carnival and outdoor recreation.
Wallace: A historic mining town with charming architecture and a unique history.
Sandpoint: Nestled on Lake Pend Oreille, known for its natural beauty and arts community.
Coeur d’Alene: Offers stunning lake views, outdoor activities, and a lively downtown area.
Driggs: A gateway to the Teton Valley, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor sports.
Stanley: A small town with dramatic Sawtooth Mountain views and access to wilderness areas.
Lewiston: A historical town at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, known for its outdoor activities.
Idaho City: A former gold mining town with a well-preserved historic district.
Victor: Located near the Wyoming border, offering a small-town feel with easy access to the Tetons.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of Idaho! Researching this state and it’s wonders has been a delightful discovery for me, from its scenic drives to the charming small towns that dot its landscape. The insights in this post were enhanced with the help of AI, a testament to the blend of technology and human curiosity. The artistic collage at the beginning of the post, crafted using Dall-E, aims to capture the essence of Idaho’s beauty and character in a unique way. It was fun to create!

I hope these images and information spark your curiosity as it did mine. I am working on a post of every state here, so make sure and check out a few more!

As we continue this journey together, I invite you to stay tuned for more adventures, more discoveries, and more stories that celebrate the diversity and splendor of our country. Happy travels!