From our beautiful lakes and rivers and incredible recreation opportunities to the all-encompassing community spirit, there is no questioning that my heart belongs in Idaho. Quiet, rural, and full of pristine beauty, there’s a different atmosphere in Idaho that makes a person slow down and enjoy the simple things in life, the way nature intended. You might even say that it takes a special person to live in this wonderful state – and if your comments on our Only In Idaho Facebook page are any indication, once our panhandled slice of heaven has captured your heart, there’s no forgetting it. There are plenty of reasons to love Idaho… what are yours?

1. The commute.
Cameron Yee/Flickr
With the seventh-lowest population in the country, you can expect scenic, stress-free drives no matter where you go.
2. The fresh air.
Banjamin J. Snider
The air is just cleaner and more refreshing here. Take a deep breath... and enjoy!
3. The colors.
Linda Paul/Flickr
Leafy trees shimmering in gold hues means fall is absolutely beautiful in Idaho, but so are the foothills when they are blanketed in wildflowers. Even the sunrises are more vibrant here!
4. The diverse scenery.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Arid deserts, wild rivers, soaring mountaintops, pristine lakes... we have it all.
5. The simple beauty.
Karol Franks/Flickr
The rustic, rural charm of small-town Idaho makes it the best place to get away from it all and unwind, or settle down and raise a family.
6. The wildlife.
Nicole Beaulac/Flickr
Miles away from urban life, it's easy to get up close and personal with nature.

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7. The peacefulness of Idaho nights.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
There's something simply magical about the silence of Idaho after nightfall... and yet, the chattering of insects, distant trains, and the rustling of leaves and crops is a special type of wonderful white noise.
8. The solitude (when you want it).
Marshl Hedin/Flickr
There's an awesome community here, but if a little quiet time is needed, Idaho can't be beat.
9. And of course, having views like this right outside your front door.
Scott Mahon/Flickr
You definitely won't find this anywhere else.
10. See, here in Idaho, you're never too far away from a beach.
Idaho Fish and Game/Flickr
There's no need to head to the coast!
11. ...or an incredible new view.
Brian Kelly/Flickr
Idaho never ceases to offer new adventures and breathtaking sights.
12. Plus, the sunsets are always picture-worthy.
Chris Phan/Flickr
The sunsets and everything else, that is.
13. Memories made here will last a lifetime.
Sigurd Rage/Flickr

Everyone has a unique perspective of our state and their own reasons for loving it here. Whether you live here now, have lived here in the past, or are just discovering the magic of the Gem State, share with us in the comments – why will your heart always be in Idaho?

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