Statewide - Idaho

Dear Visitor,
Welcome to our beautiful state.
Make yourself at home!
You’ll learn all about Idaho’s remarkable
geographic diversity and the endless
recreational opportunities that attract
more than 30 million people from all over
the world each year.
Idaho is home to hundreds of miles of
mountain biking trails and more whitewater
than any other state in the Lower
48. There are mountains and sand dunes
to climb, lakes to fish, 18 ski resorts for
winter and summer fun, and both indoor
and outdoor water parks that are among
the finest in the nation.
Idaho also is one of the best and most
cost-effective places in the country to
locate a business. You’ll find the quality
of our workforce and the hospitality of
our people to be second to none.
Come and explore our wonders. I think
you’ll agree that Idaho is a great place to
visit—and an even better place to live,
work, and raise a family.
As always—Idaho, “Esto Perpetua.”
Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter
and First Lady Lori Otter
BLISS.
JUST A STONE’S
THROW AWAY.
In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Idaho
Territory Act, which made Idaho part of the United States.
Nestled against the western side of the continental
divide of the Rocky Mountains, Idaho remains a vast and
diverse state 150 years later. Ernest Hemingway once
quipped, “A lot of state, this Idaho, that I didn’t know
about.” Since you’ve picked up our Official Travel Guide,
you must want to learn more. Northern Idaho gleams
with emerald green hillsides and sparkling lakes of all
sizes. Rugged mountains, wilderness areas, and rolling
farmland make up central Idaho. The Snake River Plain,
with its wide-open vistas, lush farmland, and vibrant
cities, forms the character of southern Idaho. Around
every bend you’ll find spectacular scenery and abundant
recreational opportunities. You’ll also find a place that’s
unhurried, unspoiled, and unassuming—perfect for your
own “Adventure in Living.”
You may visit Idaho for its natural beauty and outdoor
recreation, but you’ll find a great business climate here
as well. In 2012, Idaho was ranked #1 Most Friendly State
for Small Business by the Kauffman Foundation. The
Bureau of Labor Statistics scored Idaho # 3 for Highest
Projected Percentage Job Growth for 2008-2018. Add in
the state’s affordable cost of living, low power rates, and
enthusiastic workforce, and you have an equation for
success. Take a closer look at www.commerce.idaho.gov.