There may be 49 other states out there, but every true Idahoan knows that we live in the best of them. Sure, those other places might have a few deer and some pretty landscapes, just like us, and the people there are friendly enough. But…they’re not Idaho. And no matter where life takes you, leaving our incredible state will no doubt leave you with an Idaho-shaped hole in your heart. Here are a few things you’ll undeniably miss once you leave the Gem State.

1. The wild, rushing, roaring, meandering, and scenic rivers.
Charles (Chuck) Peterson/Flickr
But our lakes, streams, and creeks are unforgettable as well!
2. The mountains...all 114 ranges of them.
Justin/Flickr
Nicholas D./Flickr
Every season. Every angle. They're all beautiful.
3. The rolling foothills that line every horizon.
Brent/Flickr
BLMIdaho/Flickr
No horizon would be complete without the soft, pastel blues of hills rising in the distance.
4. Our intimidating, yet awe-inspiring river canyons.
Jess Johnson/Flickr
Not every state is blessed with a gorge this scenic, let alone multiple canyons!
5. Actually, you'll miss all of Idaho's scenery.
Amy Ross/Flickr
Waterfalls, hot springs, patchwork farms, and natural wonders are hard to leave behind.
6. The recreation.
The fishing is awesome here, but so is the biking, hiking, camping, skiing, and... should I go on?
7. Distinct climate zones
Bill Williams/Flickr

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Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Charles (Chuck) Peterson/Flickr
... because when you're tired of one, you can simply go to another.
8. The countryside.
Paul Godard/Flickr
Nothing beats the peace and relaxation of rural Idaho.
9. The beauty of four seasons.
Allen/Flickr
Idaho is lucky to have distinct seasons that display all of nature's best colors.
10. Our magnificent wildlife.
P.A.H./Flickr
Right outside the front door!
11. Huckleberries.
David Baron/Flickr
Enough said.
12. Our incredible history.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
From Idaho's role in the Oregon Trail and formation of the West, to our mining, logging, and agricultural history, Idaho is a tangible museum of 1800s history.
13. Fresh food.
Farm to table living doesn't get any easier than in Idaho!
14. Starry nights.
silent7seven/Flickr
The Heavens have never been more vibrant.
15. Idaho sunrises and sunsets.
Allen/Flickr
You can't beat this view.

You might not miss the potato jokes or the commutes, but when compared with everything else, Idaho is one state that simply can’t be forgotten.

Do you call Idaho ‘home’ still? Do you miss it? Share your stories and favorite parts of our beautiful and wonderful Gem State on our Facebook page!

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