3355 N Five Mile Rd, Boise, ID 83713

-116.31 43.64

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UPS Store (208) 939-6590

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Idaho is a state in the Northwest region of the United States, known for its stunning natural landscapes, including rugged mountains, vast forests, and pristine rivers. It's often associated with outdoor recreation, agriculture, and potatoes. Despite its relatively small population, Idaho boasts incredible diversity in both geography and activities, from world-class skiing to remote wilderness areas.

Geography and Location

Location: Idaho is bordered by Montana to the north, Wyoming to the east, Utah and Nevada to the south, and Oregon and Washington to the west. It is a landlocked state with no coastline but offers an abundance of rivers and lakes.

Size: Idaho covers an area of 83,569 square miles (216,443 km), making it the 14th-largest state by area. It is also known for its rugged, mountainous terrain and expansive wilderness areas.

Topography: The state is dominated by the Rocky Mountains to the east and the Snake River Plain to the west. Idaho's geography is highly diverse, with:

Mountain ranges such as the Sawtooth Mountains, Salmon River Mountains, and Bitterroot Range.
Rivers: The Snake River runs through the state and is a major feature of its landscape, alongside many other rivers, including the Clearwater River and Salmon River.
Lakes: Notable lakes include Lake Pend Oreille (the largest lake in the state) and Bear Lake.
Climate: Idaho experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers:

Winters: Cold, with snow in the mountains and some areas experiencing below-freezing temperatures.
Summers: Warm to hot, especially in the southern parts of the state, while the mountainous regions tend to be cooler.
Spring and Fall: These seasons can be mild and pleasant, with cooler nights and moderate temperatures.

History of Idaho
Native American History: Idaho was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce, Shoshone, Coeur d'Alene, and Paiute. These tribes lived off the land, hunting, fishing, and gathering plants, and developed rich cultural traditions.

European Exploration: The first Europeans to explore Idaho were members of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, as they journeyed westward toward the Pacific Ocean. The expedition passed through the Lewis and Clark Expedition Trail area, and Idaho's landscape was key in their westward journey.

Statehood: Idaho became the 43rd state to join the United States on July 3, 1890, following a period of conflict between settlers and Native Americans. The state's development was driven by its natural resources, particularly gold, silver, and timber.

Mining Boom: In the late 19th century, Idaho experienced a mining boom, especially in the Coeur d'Alene region, where silver, lead, and zinc were extracted. Mining played a major role in the state's early economic growth.

Economy
Agriculture: Agriculture remains one of Idaho's most important economic sectors. The state is a leading producer of:

Potatoes: Idaho is famously known for producing over one-third of the U.S. potato crop, especially famous for its Russet Burbank variety.
Wheat: Idaho is also a significant producer of wheat, especially soft white wheat.
Hops: Idaho is one of the largest producers of hops in the U.S., supplying the beer industry.
Dairy products, cattle, and sugar beets are also major agricultural products.
Mining and Natural Resources: Idaho is rich in mineral resources, and its mining industry has historically been vital. While the prominence of mining has decreased in recent years, the state still produces significant quantities of:

Silver: Idaho was once the leading silver-producing state in the nation.
Phosphate: Idaho is a major producer of phosphate used in fertilizers.
Timber: The state has a significant forestry industry due to its vast forests.
Technology and Manufacturing: Idaho has seen growing sectors in technology, especially in Boise, where there is a developing tech industry. The state is also home to manufacturing in industries like electronics, semiconductors, and aerospace.

Tourism: Idaho is known for its outdoor recreation, and tourism is a key contributor to the state's economy. Visitors come to Idaho for:

Fishing, boating, and white-water rafting in its numerous rivers and lakes.
Skiing at destinations like Sun Valley and Bogus Basin.
Hiking and backpacking in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Shoshone Falls, sometimes called the "Niagara of the West." Major Cities and Regions
Boise: The state capital and largest city, Boise is a growing urban hub and a key center for business, government, and higher education in Idaho. Boise is known for its outdoor lifestyle, arts scene, and its proximity to mountains and rivers. It is also the headquarters for several companies in the technology, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors.

Idaho Falls: Located in southeastern Idaho, Idaho Falls is an important center for energy production (home to the Idaho National Laboratory), as well as tourism and agriculture.

Twin Falls: Situated in southern Idaho, Twin Falls is known for its canyon views and nearby Shoshone Falls, often considered more scenic than Niagara Falls. The city also serves as a center for agriculture and commerce.

Coeur d'Alene: A popular tourist destination in northern Idaho, Coeur d'Alene is known for its picturesque lake, Lake Coeur d'Alene, and its recreational opportunities, including boating, hiking, and skiing.

Pocatello: Located in southeastern Idaho, Pocatello is home to Idaho State University and has a growing reputation in technology and higher education.

Lewiston: Situated at the confluence of the Snake River and the Clearwater River, Lewiston is a hub for transportation and agriculture in northern Idaho.

Culture and Attractions
Outdoor Recreation: Idaho's rugged terrain makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include:

Hiking in national parks and wilderness areas like the Sawtooth Wilderness and Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
Fishing and rafting in rivers like the Salmon River and Snake River.
Skiing and snowboarding at resorts such as Sun Valley (one of the premier ski resorts in the country), Bogus Basin, and Schweitzer Mountain Resort.
Camping in Idaho's numerous state parks and national forests.
Idaho State Fair: Held annually in Boise, the Idaho State Fair is a popular event that celebrates the state's agricultural roots with rides, games, live music, and competitions.

Cultural Heritage: Idaho's culture is influenced by its Native American tribes, Western pioneers, and immigrant groups. Events like the Nez Perce National Historic Park and Cultural Heritage Sites explore the history of Idaho's indigenous tribes. The state's history is also celebrated through local museums, like the Idaho State Museum in Boise.

Festivals: Idaho hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including:

The Sun Valley Film Festival.
The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction.
The Moscow Renaissance Fair in Moscow, Idaho.
Wine and Food: Idaho has a growing wine industry, particularly in the Snake River Valley, where vineyards produce quality wines. The state's food culture includes hearty meals like potato dishes, steaks, and game meat like elk and venison.

Education and Innovation
Boise State University: Boise State is the largest university in the state and is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, education, and public affairs. The university is also recognized for its Broncos football team and the iconic blue turf at Albertsons Stadium.

Idaho State University: Located in Pocatello, Idaho State is a leading center for education in healthcare, engineering, and business, and has a focus on research.

College of Southern Idaho: Based in Twin Falls, CSI offers a range of vocational and technical training programs in fields like agriculture, engineering, and technology.

Innovation: The state's universities and research institutions focus on areas like agriculture technology, biotechnology, engineering, and environmental science.

Government and Politics
State Government: Idaho has a Republican-leaning political environment, with the Idaho State Legislature comprising the State Senate and the House of Representatives. The state governor is an important figure in guiding policy, particularly related to agriculture, land use, and natural resources.