Idaho's ideal location as a Rocky Mountain state on a direct path to the Pacific Coast, as well as a major Native American territory throughout history, means the Gem State has an incredible past tucked within its borders. In fact, despite its beautiful surface, it's safe to say that Idaho has quite the story to tell. These 10 locations in Idaho are particularly important to our state's history and have played a key role in establishing our rural oasis as the wonderful place to live that it is today.
1. The Lemhi Valley: Where Lewis and Clark's journey changed fortune.
Idaho made history when Lewis and Clark first entered the region in 1804, as it was here that the Corps of Discovery faced many of their greatest land challenges to date. But the Lemhi Valley, 20 miles East of the Salmon River, was also the birthplace of Sacagawea, without whom they most certainly would not have made it to the ocean and back.
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While Sacagawea's first role here was as an interpreter between the men and her people, her key legacy was as a guide, leading the men through the trails of her childhood while also gathering safe food for the party to eat.
The Oregon Treaty was signed in 1803, establishing which lands would be under control of Great Britain and the newly established US. The line between the US and Canada was drawn on the 49th parallel, marking the final change for the two countries and giving Idaho's panhandle a definite top.
3. Pend Oreille: Where Idaho's trade industry got its start.
When Canadian fur trapper David Thompson built Idaho's first trading post near Bonners Ferry, he set into motion a whirlwind pf trade, as well as sparked a new phase in Idaho's relationship with its Native American residents. The trade post brought in thousands of white settlers, setting the foundation for the wars and development that was to come.
4. The Idaho Border: Where seven states got their permanent state lines.
Idaho officially became a U.S. territory under Abraham Lincoln in 1863. After this designation, alongside Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Montana, and Wyoming, all were separated into distinct states with borders created predominantly by existing landmarks. Originally four immense rectangles of land, the new states were even granted a say in which parts of land they wanted to keep.
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5. Clearwater: Where the Nez Perce war took a dramatic turn.
In a battle that covered three states and lasted for the entirety of 1877, the battle in Clearwater marked a turning point as the war moved south and ultimately into Montana.
6. Orofino: Gold becomes the currency of the Idaho territory.
When gold was discovered in Orofino Creek in 1862, the population surge into Idaho was quick and unexpected. This discovery, made prior to the development of mine-based extraction, caused Idaho's fist official mining town to spring up -- Pierce -- soon to be followed by
Silver City, Cottonwood, and many more.
7. Lewiston: An original capital faces an uprising.
Most people know that Lewiston was Idaho's original capital in 1863, chosen by first governor William H. Wallace himself due to its unique seaport, mines, and its somewhat central location.
When the gold petered out, however, an uprising within the capital occurred simultaneously. Gold was exploding in the Boise Basin, and people were migrating there in droves, abandoning the Palouse in favor of the southern oasis. Fortunately (or unfortunately), the governor at the time, Caleb Lyon, was an out-of-stater with little to no interest in the "middle of nowhere" territory, and with no leadership, the state in many ways was a free for all. Thus, Secretary of State Charles DeWitt Smith took matters into his own hands here. Naming himself governor, he grabbed the territorial seal and official papers and rode them on horseback to Boise, marking the capital's "move."
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8. Hailey: Where electricity and phone service first came to Idaho.
While something as small as power may not seem like a historical event, consider the date: 1887. Far later than many other states already boasting electricity, newspapers, and other modern conveniences, the building of the electric plant allowed Idaho easier community access and the ability to mine, develop, and expand into the new century.
9. Soda Springs: Where the Oregon Trail came to life.
The Oregon Trail was a 2,000 mile journey made by pioneers in the early 1800s, each family motivated by the hope of new lives and new opportunities, but the challenging journey wasn't for the faint of heart. Soda Springs (well before the geyser was established) was the point where the trail first crossed into Idaho. Today, you can still see and follow the original wagon ruts and even find forgotten relics, as well as visit the museum and Fort Hall replica in nearby Pocatello.
10. Boise: Where Idaho made gender equality history.
Idaho was the 4th state in the country to allow women the right to vote, beginning in 1896. The movement occurred much in part to Abigail Scott Duniway, though it wasn't until the 20s that the 19th Amendment passed in the entire country. Idaho's progressive role in this matter was years before its time, and paid tribute to the importance of women in the family. Boise was the location of most, if not all, of Duniway's public lectures on the topic, which played a huge role in influencing the state capital to make the change.
Idaho's long and tumultuous history of settlement and development is captured in these places - and there's so much more to the stories than the textbooks explain! What other notable locales played roles in Idaho's history?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Running straight through Southern Idaho and forming the lifeblood of the state, the mighty Snake River is a powerful, magnificent body of water that has carved the intimidating Snake River Canyon over the course of thousands of years. While the plunging depths of the gorge are definitely intimidating, reaching over 500 feet deep, what's perhaps most impressive is the canyon's girth. At certain points, the canyon reaches around 1600 feet wide; nearly 1/4 of a mile across.
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The scenic canyon slices through the outskirts of Twin Falls, and without going around the region, there's only one way to get across the canyon: the Perrine Bridge. In fact, when it was built in 1927, the Perrine Bridge over the canyon — which stands at an impressive 486 feet — was the tallest bridge in the world.
You might have heard the story of how a famous daredevil, one Evel Knievel himself, decided that there was another way to get across the gorge: a steam-powered rocket. What you might not know is that the Snake River Canyon wasn't his first choice for his now-famous stunt — or that the terrifying stunt was recreated.
The Snake River Canyon is an intimidating sight, but one you might not even see from a distance because of how sharply the canyon walls plummet down to the Snake River.
At 212 feet, this raging beauty is taller than Niagara Falls and delightfully unexpected as the water pours out of the rocky, desert landscape.
In the early 70s, world-famous Evel Knievel decided he wanted to jump the Grand Canyon by motorcycle. When his request was denied, he scouted the country in search of a comparable challenge ... finding it in humble Idaho.
To meet legal restrictions, he leased land on both sides of the canyon and set to work building an angled dirt ramp and a 180-foot tall launch structure for the rocket he hoped would get him to the other side: the steam-powered SkyCycle X2.
But every test jump, each of them sans Knievel, plunged straight into the raging Snake River at over 350 miles per hour.
The custom-built machine sat perched on an almost vertical-angled launch structure, equipped with multiple parachutes to help Knievel land (somewhat) gently on the other side of the 1600-foot canyon. Already well up in years, Knievel's greatest concern before launch was that the G-force of the rocket would make him blackout and release the safety parachute too early.
As millions watched on TV and thousands more gathered in person, the parachute opened even before Knievel was off of the launch pad and fully deployed mid-air, bringing the rocket to a near-halt over the middle of the canyon.
Hearts fell as the SkyCycle began plunging — spinning — towards the water. Paddlers rowed towards the center of the river as quickly as they could. Fortunately, strong canyon winds blew the X2 backward towards the rocks just in time and Knievel was able to escape the rocket with only a broken nose. The cause? An electrical issue.
A monument was placed in the visitor center on the southern end of the Perrine Bridge in commemoration of the attempt.
The 1974 stunt was one of the last for the aging Knievel.
Recently, world-class stuntman Eddie Braun decided to recreate the jump and succeed where Knievel couldn't.
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Were you watching when either of these famous daredevils took flight over the Snake River Canyon?
The Snake River Canyon, Shoshone Falls, The Perrine Memorial Bridge, and even the Evel Knievel jump site are all excellent road trip stops. For some other road trip ideas, check out our list featuring some of our favorites. Just make sure you are prepared for your road trip with some of the best car-friendly snacks!
If you're searching for another must-visit spot to visit in the area, check out the Twin Falls Visitor Center, one of the coolest visitor centers in Idaho.
