Filled with mountains, caves, sparkling lakes, and blossoming prairies, Idaho has rightfully earned its nickname of the "Gem State," as our landscape is just as much a gem of the Northwest as the precious stones we produce. It seems like no matter where you turn in Idaho, there's a small town that breathes rural charm, mountain relaxation, and bountiful nature. Here, gracious skies hold our hearts in complete awe as the landscape brushes the skyline, whether the two collide as snowy mountain peaks or rural farmscapes... or anything in between! These 12 Idaho towns embrace the lush landscape of our state and show off some of the best scenery our little slice of heaven has to offer.

1. Hailey

This cozy town in the Wood River Valley has topped dozens of national lists for being one of the most livable small towns in the country. A stunning combination of mountains, valleys, and local history makes it easy to see why.

2. Hope

Tucked next to Lake Pend Oreille, but all too often overshadowed by Sandpoint as a Northern Idaho destination, this lovely waterfront retreat offers a combination of small town charm and picturesque views.

3. Hagerman

The Hagerman Valley was formed by ancient floods along the Snake River, shaping into a bountiful Southern Idaho oasis of waterfalls, lush native flora, geologic marvels, and the pristine waters of Blue Heart Springs.

4. Cascade

Cascade, Idaho is a family-destination gem. Nestled against Lake Cascade, this tiny town acts as a recreation haven for campers, water-sports lovers, and those who just want to get away from it all.

5. Tetonia

Enjoy the quiet serenity and beautiful scenery of the Teton Valley in this aptly-named town. A charming destination that offers dining options as diverse and pristine as the Teton mountains that surround the valley, this community keeps finding new ways to impress in all the right ways.

6. Stanley

Surrounded on every side by the picturesque Sawtooth mountains, winding scenic byways, and rural beauty, this Central Idaho town boasts idyllic small-town charm and quintessential Idaho panoramas.

7. Fairfield

Fairfield's expansive beauty is highlighted by much more than just the towering Soldier Mountain and the scenic wildflowers of the Camas Valley. Here, you'll enjoy stunning sunrises and clear skies in the heart of Idaho.

8. Ketchum

Formerly one of the richest mining towns in the entire west, today Ketchum is a bustling destination retreat in Central Idaho, a gateway to the Sawtooths, and a historic community that offers unparalleled beauty.

9. Boise

Idaho's capital regularly tops national lists for livability, beauty, and growth, but this big-little city really impresses with its stunning foothills, quaint rural areas, and mesmerizing skyline.

10. Priest Lake

Northern Idaho's crowned jewel near the Canada border is tucked alongside Priest Lake -- a pristine body of water that boasts arguably the best sunset views and beach lounging in the state. Residents here are not only offered a spectacular backdrop of lush forests and pristine waterfront, but small town charm and easy access to recreation.

11. Moscow

Idaho's Palouse region is often overlooked for its rich expanses of golden wheat and open agricultural beauty, but seated in the heart of Idaho's rolling plains near the Washington border, Moscow's prairie-like charm is picturesque and vibrant year-round.

12. Island Park

The quaint, lovely town of Island Park sits in the world's largest caldera, which was formed by an ancient volcano that collapsed thousands of years ago. Lush, scenic, and waterfront, the same geologic forces that shaped nearby Yellowstone have created an Idaho oasis that is stunningly picturesque in every way.

The beauty of our state is endless, with wonderful stretches of wilderness that remain perfectly preserved, begging adventurers to explore every nook and cranny of its unapologetic glory. Today and every day, go forth and enjoy the idyllic setting that is Idaho!