25 Fascinating Facts You Never Knew About Idaho
Nestled in the panhandle of northern Idaho, the town of Wallace offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s rich mining history. About 90 miles east of Spokane, Washington, Wallace has preserved its entire downtown as a National Historic District. Walking through its streets, visitors can explore the Sierra Silver Mine tour, descending into the earth to see firsthand the tunnels where silver was extracted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The mine’s labyrinthine shafts reveal the grit and ingenuity that powered Idaho’s mining boom, making this experience a vivid immersion into a key chapter of the state’s economic and cultural heritage. The best time to visit is in late spring or early fall when the weather is mild and the town’s historic charm is on full display without the summer crowds.
Heading south to the edge of the Snake River Plain, Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls stands out as one of Idaho’s most majestic natural wonders. Often called the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls plunges nearly 213 feet, actually surpassing Niagara Falls in height. Just a short drive from the city of Twin Falls, the falls can be viewed from a well-maintained park with easy trails and scenic overlooks. The roar of the water and the mist that fills the air create a dramatic sensory experience, particularly in spring when snowmelt swells the river. Visitors who time their trip for early May often catch the falls at peak flow, making it a spectacular photo opportunity and a refreshing respite during warmer months.
In southeastern Idaho, the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve lies about 80 miles northwest of Idaho Falls. This surreal volcanic landscape features vast fields of lava flows, cinder cones, and caves shaped by ancient eruptions. Exploring the easy loop trail at the Devil’s Orchard reveals twisted lava trees and unusual volcanic rock formations that seem like something from another planet. The site’s interpretive center provides fascinating exhibits on the geological forces that created this area. Visitors who venture here in late summer avoid the cold winds of winter and can fully appreciate the stark beauty of this otherworldly terrain without the distraction of snow or ice.
The city of Boise, Idaho’s capital, offers a unique dive into Basque culture at the Basque Block, located in downtown Boise. About two hours northwest of Shoshone Falls, this vibrant neighborhood is home to Basque restaurants, markets, and cultural centers celebrating the immigrant community that has thrived here since the late 19th century. Sampling authentic Basque cuisine like lamb stew or chorizo at the iconic Bar Gernika while listening to traditional folk music performances creates an immersive cultural outing. Festivals like Jaialdi, held every five years, showcase this heritage, but the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere is enjoyable year-round, especially on warm summer evenings when outdoor patios fill with locals and visitors alike.
On the western edge of Idaho, Hells Canyon beckons about 80 miles north of Lewiston, the city at Idaho’s western tip. This colossal gorge carved by the Snake River runs along the Idaho-Oregon border and is considered the deepest river gorge in North America. The Hells Canyon Overlook on Seven Devils Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of the canyon’s rugged cliffs and winding river below. Hiking trails such as the Grizzly Ridge Trail provide moderate to challenging routes for adventurers seeking striking wilderness vistas and chances to spot bighorn sheep. Spring through early fall offers the best weather for hiking and boating on the Snake River, with summer mornings bringing crisp, clear air perfect for photography.
In the heart of central Idaho, the Sawtooth Mountains define the landscape around the town of Stanley, located about 125 miles north of Boise. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a paradise for hikers who enjoy alpine lakes and jagged peaks. A popular route is the Iron Creek to Alice Lake trail, a moderate 9-mile round trip that rewards trekkers with crystal-clear waters framed by towering granite spires. The area’s rugged wilderness experience is unmatched in Idaho, with opportunities to spot wildlife like mountain goats and eagles. Summer and early fall are ideal for visiting, as wildflowers bloom and the weather is stable, while winter transforms the range into a snow-covered playground for backcountry skiers.
Travelers interested in Idaho’s pioneer and Native American history will find the Nez Perce National Historical Park near Spalding, roughly 30 miles northwest of Lewiston. This park preserves several sites significant to the Nez Perce tribe and their struggles during the 1877 conflict with the U.S. government. At the Tamkaliks Visitor Center, visitors can explore exhibits on the tribe’s culture, history, and the famous Nez Perce War. The nearby trails lead to ancient petroglyphs and peaceful river valleys where visitors can connect with the land that shaped the tribe’s identity. Spring and fall offer mild weather for exploring these outdoor sites, avoiding the summer heat common in the region.
In southern Idaho, the city of Twin Falls also serves as a gateway to the spectacular Perrine Bridge, an iconic steel arch bridge that spans the Snake River Canyon. Located just minutes from downtown Twin Falls, this spot is famous for its BASE jumping, being one of the few places in the U.S. where it’s allowed year-round. Even if you’re not jumping, walking across the bridge and visiting the adjacent overlook park provides an exhilarating view of the canyon’s depth and the rushing river below. Sunset visits are particularly stunning, as the setting sun casts golden light across the rugged rock walls and the calm river surface, creating a dramatic and unforgettable panorama.
Boise’s Old Idaho Penitentiary, located just five minutes east of downtown, offers a stark and compelling window into Idaho’s criminal justice past. Established in the late 19th century, this historic prison facility now operates as a museum where visitors can tour cell blocks, solitary confinement areas, and execution chambers. The exhibits include artifacts and stories of notorious inmates and infamous events, such as the last public hanging in Idaho. The eerie atmosphere is amplified by the original stone walls and iron bars, making this a gripping historical experience. Guided tours are available throughout the year, but autumn visits are especially atmospheric when the prison’s stark architecture contrasts with fall foliage.
In the northwest corner of the state, the Coeur d’Alene Resort in the city of Coeur d’Alene offers access to Lake Coeur d’Alene, a stunning 25-mile-long lake surrounded by forested hills. About 30 miles east of Spokane, Washington, this area is a hub for boating, fishing, and lakeside hiking. The Tubbs Hill Trail, a scenic 2.2-mile loop right adjacent to the downtown area, winds through pine forests and rocky outcrops with spectacular lake views at every turn. This urban nature experience is unique because it combines easy access with pristine wilderness right at the city’s doorstep. Summer brings warm temperatures perfect for swimming and