Know Before You Go – Idaho

Located in the northwestern region of the United States, Idaho is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes, outdoor recreation, and its potato crop. The Gem State borders: Canada (British Columbia province), Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming; and is one of only two locations in the entire world you can find significant quantities or star garnets. Whether you’re looking for some history about the state or just a few interesting facts, here are five fascinating details about Idaho. 

Home to the Deepest Canyon in the U.S.

While many may think of the Grand Canyon when you think of deep gorges in the United States, the winner actually goes to Hell’s Canyon. The ravine is 7,900 feet deep, which is 1,900 feet deeper than the Grand Canyon. 

Idaho Is the Whitewater Capital of the Continental 48 States

In fact, National Geographic placed the Middle Fork of the Salmon River as one of the top 10 whitewater rafting destinations in the world. Although Middle Fork contains 100 miles of whitewater excitement and over 80 rapids to conquer; there is 3,000 miles worth of whitewater across the state you can scope out.

Home to the Only State Seal Designed by a Woman

After becoming a state in 1890, the First Legislature for the state was to hold a national competition to design the state seal. With a $100 prize awarded to the best design, people from all across the United States did their best to create the seal design. However, local art teacher Emma Sarah Etine Edwards from Boise won the competition in 1891 for her painting of a miner and female goddess representing freedom and suffrage. 

Avoid Riding the Merry-Go-Round on Sunday

Idaho has its own fair share of strange laws. In fact, it is considered a crime to ride the merry-go-round on Sundays. Other crazy laws include: you cannot fish while on a camel’s back and it’s illegal for a man to give a box of candy that weighs less than fifty pounds to his sweetheart.   

Idaho Has a Cave of Ice in the Middle of a Desert

Just a few 16 miles north of Shoshone, located in the middle of the desert are the Shoshone Indian Ice Caves. This natural marvel is created by hollow subterranean lava tubes whose air currents cause the subterranean water to freeze and remain solid year round.