Idaho

Overview

Idaho, in the northwest of the USA, is a fat 'L' shape bounded by six states and a small stretch of the Canadian border to the north. Part of the eastern border, with Montana, goes along the Continental Divide of the Rocky Mountains, while slightly to the south the state borders the western edge of Yellowstone National park, which is largely in Wyoming.

This state will not be on the top destination list for many tourists, as there are no national parks and not too many visitor attractions. There are mountain ranges and about 40% of the land area is timberland and National Forest, with plenty of high desert and wilderness. There is no shortage of trails and rivers for white- water adventures and ample skiing and snow mobiles in winter.

There are two main routes across the state, north and south. Travelling to or from Yellowstone one can take a detour to the Craters of the Moon National Monument, with its vast lave fields and cinder cones. On the western border, Idaho shares the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area with Oregon. Here towering basaltic cliffs rise up from the Snake River to form the deepest gorge in the USA. Jet boats and rafting trips may give a welcome break to a journey.

Those in search of history may be drawn to follow the route of Lewis and Clark on their famous pioneering journey, crossing Idaho on the Clearwater River, joining the Snake at present day Lewiston.

History

The real history of Idaho is that of the native Indian tribes who lived there for thousands of years. In 1805 Lewis and Clark were the first white explorers in the area. On orders from Thomas Jefferson they had set out up the Missouri River, in search of a route to the Pacific. Having managed to cross the Continental Divide, they were helped by Nez Perce Indians in their journey along the Clearwater River, across northern Idaho. Eventually they reached the larger Snake River and continued into what is now Washington State.

Fur trappers followed Lewis and Clark and the British fur trade dominated the economy until 1846. Missionaries had arrived, in an attempt to convert the native population. In the south movement along the Oregon Trail grew, with the California Gold Rush of 1849. Placer gold was found in Idaho streams and silver mining became an important occupation.

Idaho?s boundaries were established in 1868 and conflict broke out between the previously peaceful Nez Perce and Shoshone Indians and the miners. In the 1880?s the railway penetrated the area, as other metals began to be exploited and in 1890 Idaho became a state.

With irrigation, southern Idaho became a very productive farming area, especially for potatoes and wheat. ?Famous potatoes? on the Idaho car number plate attests to their importance!

When to Go

Essentials