9 Quirky Facts About Idaho That Sound Made Up (But Are 100% True)

Other than being home to rugged mountain towns, majestic waterfalls, and stunning hikes, Idaho is full of other fun and quirky facts that sound made up, but are completely true. Turns out, the Gem State has plenty of history, culture, and fascinating things that are worth exploring.

We’ve gathered just nine interesting facts about Idaho that are not only great to know for your next trivia night, but they’ll help you appreciate our state even more.

1. The State Produces 70% of U.S. Trout

Trout is a popular fish sold at supermarkets across the country, but about 70 percent of that inventory comes from Idaho. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Gem State is the nation’s leader in trout farming.

2. We're Larger Than New England Combined

Idaho is bigger than the states of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island combined. But the population of our state is much lower: While Massachusetts's population is about 7 million, ours is just under 2 million.

3. The Town of American Falls Relocated... Twice

American Falls is a small southern Idaho town, located right along the Snake River and American Falls Reservoir. Back in 1888, the town decided to move across the river to what was then considered "the original town site." But in 1925, it moved again to accommodate the American Falls Dam and protect the town from flooding.

4. We Have the Longest Gondola in America

The longest ski gondola ride in America is located at the Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg, Idaho. The 3.1-mile ride starts from Kellogg's quaint downtown area to the gorgeous top of Silver Mountain. It's a great way to take in all the natural beauty of the state.

5. Our Canyon Is Deeper Than the Grand Canyon

Hell's Canyon—located across central Idaho and northeastern Oregon—is deeper than the infamous Grand Canyon. According to NASA, the eastern rim of the canyon has an elevation of 8,043 feet above the river level, making it more than a quarter of a mile deeper than the Grand Canyon. The best way to see it? On a boat tour on the Snake River.

6. We Have a Neutral Dialect

Most regions of the country have some sort of dialect, made evident by the way we all pronounce certain words. But in Idaho, most agree we have what's considered neutral or the "most average" pronunciation of words in English. So, do we have an accent? It's up for debate.

7. The Potato Is the Official State Vegetable

Idaho grows lots of potatoes, so this one shouldn't necessarily come as a surprise. The climate, soil, and water are just a few reasons why potatoes grow so well in the Gem State. In 2024 alone, more than 300,000 acres of land were harvested for potato production, leading to more than one billion dollars in sales.

8. Our Rivers Add Up to 3,500 Miles

If you were to add up the length of all the rivers in our state, it would equal approximately 3,500 miles. In fact, the most river miles in the United States are here in Idaho. Some of the biggest include the Snake River, the Clark Fork/Pend Oreille River, the Spokane River, and the Clearwater River, which lead to bigger bodies of water throughout Idaho and eastern Washington.

9. The Official State Horse Is the Appaloosa

The Appaloosa horse is one of the most popular breeds in the U.S., but it became Idaho's official state horse in 1975. The breed has its beginnings with the Nez Perce people, an Indigenous tribe native to Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. You can learn more about this breed, its iconic spotted coat, and how they are bred today at the little-known Appaloosa Museum in Moscow.

Did you know these quirky, yet fascinating, facts about Idaho? Learn more about the Gem State and marvel in its natural beauty by taking a trip for yourself. The Only In Your State itinerary planner can help you find lodging, dining, and other top-tier recommendations.