11 Photos You’ll Only Understand If You Hail From Idaho

There’s something special about being from Idaho. Regardless of whether you have lived in Idaho your entire life or you have only lived here a short time, there are certain images that will immediately remind you of the Gem State. From festivals to food to natural wonders, here are just 11 photos of Idaho that are going to fill you with a sense of pride and nostalgia for the great state that we love to call home.

1. Potatoes

Idaho is most well known for its potato production so it’s only fitting that potatoes are on this list. What is your favorite way to eat an Idaho potato?

2. The Sawtooth Mountains

Yes, you can find gorgeous mountains all around the country but once you’ve stood up close to the Sawtooth Mountains, it’s hard to find anything that compares.

3. Unique Accommodations

Want to stay inside a giant potato? What about a giant beagle-shaped guest house? Maybe a restored 1909 train carriage?

4. Lake Day!

Idaho lakes are the best kind of lakes — Lake Coeur d’Alene, Payette Lake, Lake Pend Oreille, Bear Lake …

5. Shoshone Falls

A true Idahoan can easily spot an image of Shoshone Falls. This entire area is breathtaking and we are so proud it is found in our great state.

6. The Palouse

I may be biased but there is nothing like the Palouse. It’s an area that is gorgeous any time of the year and one that you need to see in person — but a photo will do a pinch.

7. Riverwalks

Boise, Idaho Falls, and other cities around the state boast riverwalks that not only give you breathtaking river views but are a great way to receive a little exercise, spend time with friends or family, and enjoy beautiful Idaho features. Fun fact: did you know that the total length of Idaho’s rivers and waterways could stretch across the entire United States approximately 38 times?

8. Fresh Snow

While Idaho certainly becomes chilly, the snow doesn’t keep us cooped up indoors. In fact, snowy days are some of the best days to explore the Gem State. Ski, sled, hike, snowmobile — there’s so much to do in the winter in Idaho!

9. 4th of July Fireworks

Southeastern Idaho is known for one thing every summer — a massive firework display. The Melaleuca Freedom Celebration in Idaho Falls features the largest firework display west of the Mississippi. It’s a celebration you’ll always remember.

10. Potato Ice Cream

Yes, potatoes may already be on this list but we felt potato ice cream deserved its own spot. This is one frozen treat that you can only find in Idaho and it’s good — so, so good.

11. Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is unique, beautiful, and pure Idaho.

What are we missing from this list? What images would you include? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to include your favorite photo!

As Idahoans, we are proud to call the Gem State home and will defend it completely. Check out our article highlighting several controversial hills that every Idaho is willing to die on.

While there are so many things to do in Idaho, my personal favorite is a road trip. I love traveling all over the state from the panhandle clear down to the Idaho and Utah border. Check out several of our best road trip ideas and then make sure you are prepared with the ultimate road trip snacks!