Idaho

Souvenirs from Idaho

Idaho, one of USA's wildest states and a paradise for outdoor adventures, is a paradoxical land of contrasts. From desert dunes to rich forests, clear lakes and rocky rivers, Idaho's splendid landscapes are as diverse and challenging as the adventures they inspire. The unique mixture of water and land (with prairies and marshes) makes it an ideal destination for adventurous tourists even if this means just camping simply and safely or bravely watching a wild animal in a starry night. For fishing, swimming or hiking in a splendid surrounding, the Bruneau Dunes State Park lays just South of Home Mountain. A surreal landscape of little lakes, desert vegetation and the highest sand dune in Idaho transform this wonderful space in one of the best venues for night star watching. Don't forget to keep fridge magnets, keychains, souvenir plates and T-shirts as reminders of your great adventures.

Rafting and Fishing in Idaho

With its rural charm and wild beauty of contrasting landscapes and rich waters, Idaho is also a great place for rafting. The white water rafting experience has been a tourist success since the 1980s and river Payette- due to its strategic location in the centre of the beautiful Boise National Forest is a popular location for both rafting and kayaking. Whatever the level of adventure you choose, these beautiful settings with the clear waters of the Treasure Valley and South Fork are there to inspire and push anyone's limits. For an outstanding ski experience Idaho offers anything from Western rural trails with breathtaking views such as frozen lakes and picturesque valleys to skiing along rivers. Beside the thrills of good old hunting, fishing and hiking, Idaho is home to some of USA's most iconic images: old Wild West ranches stretch endlessly across the lands while horse riders fade away towards a stunning sun set.

Boise National Forest and Bear Lake

For a splash of eternal green try the Boise National Forest, one of the largest in Idaho and situated quite close to Boise. For campers it is a great opportunity to relax amid high pines, spruces, several types of fir trees and the calming waters of the Boise and Payette Rivers. The forest has been welcoming campers with modern picnicking venues and during winters, ski is also popular. Situated in the Northern part of Bear Lake and one of Idaho's stunning natural treasures, the Bear Lake National Park has been shaped around the marsh landscape and it is a rich natural habitat for birds and wild animal species from red headed ducks to spectacular ibis. In the right season it is ideal for fishing and canoeing.

Idaho's Wild Rivers

Often used in filming projects for its beautiful surroundings, the Payette River's North Fork is Idaho's iconic image and one of the few sites for moose watching. Herons and eagles are among the species which attract visitors every year and the area near Warren Wagon Road is also suitable for paddlers. For a stunning view over crystal clear waters and the unique chance to watch trout swimming from a shore's distance don't miss the Selway River. The entire area of Snake and Salmon Rivers is a paradise for fishers: it is the sweet home for the Chinook salmon uniquely found in Idaho's waters but the area is also the ultimate fly fishing venue. As a dedication to Idaho's historical legacy, the Wood River Valley trail plays tribute to the vintage railroads' role in shaping modern Idaho: the trail even connects to a paved one and during the cold season it is skiing-friendly.