Idaho

Idaho is a state in the Pacific Northwest and Mountain West regions of the United States. It is bordered by Washington and Oregon to the west; Montana and Wyoming to the east; Nevada and Utah to the south; and the Idaho Panhandle shares a northern border with British Columbia, Canada. The capital and largest city is Boise. Idaho is known as the Gem State. The population is about 1.9 million.

Geography includes rugged mountains, the Snake River Plain, and high desert landscapes. The Sawtooth Range and the Bitterroot Range are among its notable peaks. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve preserves a vast lava field. The Snake River drives irrigation and hydroelectric power, supporting agriculture and towns across southern Idaho.

History notes that Indigenous peoples including the Nez Perce, Shoshone, and Coeur d’Alene lived in the region for centuries. The region was explored by the Lewis and Clark expedition in 1805. Idaho Territory was established in 1863, and Idaho was admitted to statehood in 1890.

Economy and institutions emphasize a diversified economy with agriculture—especially potatoes—alongside manufacturing, technology, and energy. The Idaho National Laboratory near Idaho Falls is a major nuclear and energy research facility. Major universities include the University of Idaho in Moscow, Boise State University, and Idaho State University in Pocatello.

Symbols and culture note that the state nickname is the Gem State. Official symbols include the mountain bluebird (state bird), syringa or lilac (state flower), and western white pine (state tree). Popular destinations include Sun Valley for skiing and Craters of the Moon National Monument.