Idaho A GEM OF A STATE
Idaho is most readily linked with being a prolific producer of potatoes. But although its baked ‘tatties’ are undeniably delicious – and usually huge – there are many more compelling reasons to visit, says Steve Hartridge
stone has been found there – makes a compelling case for being the true home of the Great American Outdoors. Sitting on the western side of the continental divide of the Rocky Mountains, Idaho has more designated wilderness areas (22 state parks, 15 national forests) and more miles of navigable river (16,000) than any other US state bar Alaska. And its huge swathes of undeveloped wilderness areas provide more than 20 scenic byways, which criss-cross the state. Little wonder then that Idaho is a natural adventure playground enjoyed by hikers, campers, mountain bikers, golfers, fishermen, canoers and golfers alike, while
S 30 September 2011 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
haped like a giant's club, 'The ‘Gem State’ – so named because just about every known gem
those who like their adrenalin rushes are attracted by some of the best white- water kayaking and rafting in the world. In spring and summer those many
rivers are fuelled by melting snow that slides off the Rocky Mountains, which provides a clue to another reason for visiting Idaho: skiing. Sun Valley, 75 years old this year, was America’s original purpose-built ski resort and the home of the world’s first chairlift. In the 1940s, 50s and 60s it attracted Hollywood glitterati such as Marilyn Monroe and Bing Crosby, but the resort’s halcyon days came to an end when, in the face of competition from air travel, the Union Pacific railroad – the very reason for Sun Valley’s conception in the first place – became uneconomic and stopped running. Today the resort still
offers a first-class winter experience but also hosts concerts and festivals in the summer and autumn. While Sun Valley is the state’s best-
know alpine resort there are several other ski hills, including some close to Boise, Idaho’s attractive capital. The most convenient, Bogus Basin Ski Resort, is just 17 miles from downtown and features night skiing under solar-powered lights. But it is summer when Idaho’s full line-
up of recreational opportunities comes into its own. In Boise these begin in the mountain foothills surrounding the city: visitors can join office workers for a spot of fly-fishing or a walk or cycle on the Boise River Greenbelt. Then there’s the opportunity to act
like a cowboy by staying at a working ranch, riding with the cowhands – and
girls – and taking care of up to 2000 mother cows and their calves on the summer range. Operators offering Idaho ranch holidays include Ranch America and American Round-Up. Dotted across a state which stretches
from the top of Nevada all the way to the Canadian border is an impressive line-up of natural wonders. Near the top of any not-to-be-missed list for those on a leisurely driving tour should be Hells Canyon, in the west of the state close to the border with Oregon. It’s the deepest river gorge in America, plunging further then the Grand Canyon. Activities include jet-boat rides.
Clockwise: Silverwood theme park; one of many family-friendly rivers; Coeur d'Alene Golf and Spa; Soda Springs Geyser; paragliding at Sun Valley
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