Fishing Frenzy

In Idaho, majestic mountains compete for attention with turquoise blue lakes. Farmland is found just outside major city limits. And all across the state you can find ways to have fun: hiking, skiing, biking, golf, fishing, and boating.

Boise is the capital of Idaho. When visiting the capital, make sure to see the marble statue of Nike of Samothrace. The statue was a gift from France to the United States after the end of World War II. Visitors should also look for the bronze and black stone statue of the head of Terry Shadduck. Visitors are also amazed at the detail in the Golden Statue of George Washington carved from white pine.

Wherever you look, nature is nearby. Boise has several thousand acres of parks as well as a Greenbelt which stretches for 25 miles along the Boise River. For those who enjoy sports, Boise has a number of local teams from which to choose. Don't forget the rodeo! Those looking for cultural activities will find everything from an opera company and a symphony orchestra to bars, clubs and coffeehouses.

Idaho is blessed with a variety of lakes. Two of the better known lakes are Lake Coeur d'Alene and Redfish Lake. Lake Coeur d'Alene is located in northern Idaho and is well known as an international resort destination offering a number of hotels and resorts with beautiful lakefront accommodations; dining options featuring five star meals and lakeside views; world class golf courses and spas; and a variety of activities such as fishing, parasailing and seaplane rides. Redfish Lake, located in Central Idaho in the Sawtooth Recreational Area, gets its name from the sockeye salmon that migrated there. Visitors here can take guided fly fishing trips, or just do some fly fishing or spin casting on their own.

Another stunning sight in Idaho is Shoshone Falls, along the Snake River. The falls are 212 feet high, which makes them higher than Niagara Falls. They are often called the "Niagara Falls of the West." The best time to view the falls is in the spring and summer, after the snow melt.

Palouse is an area northwest of Walla Walla. It is known to be the land of fertile hills. The land extends from southeast Washington to north central Idaho, as well as some of Oregon. This area is famous for growing wheat and legumes. One area, known as the Palouse Hills, is a fascinating section with an awe-inspiring landscape. This area is also popular with tourists, with amazing carved hills and a lush countryside.

Most people come to Idaho for skiing at the Idaho City Park N' Ski Area, but now the area is a popular attraction during the summer as well. The city is now renting the yurts, or cabins, during the summer to help boost the economy. This area provides breathtaking hiking and bike-riding up the side of a mountain. Mountain biking is not only great exercise but is also a perfect way to see what Mother Nature has to offer.

Golfers will love Idaho. Some outstanding opportunities exist at the Headwaters Golf Club at Teton Springs, Pinecrest Golf Club at Idaho Falls, The Club at Black Rock near Coeur D Arlene, Crane Creek Golf Course at Crane Creek and Centennial Golf Course near Nampa.

Don't just take our word for it; Idaho is the place to be. Here are what some travelers had to say about their Idaho vacations: "There were so many things to do that we ran out of time. This was a friendly place to be. Life was simple here. The Shoshone Falls were captivating. Our favorite restaurant in Boise was the Shige Japanese Cuisine; the food was remarkable." "My family stayed in a wonderful hotel in Boise. The staff was so accommodating and made sure that we were well taken care of. I enjoyed the room to breathe in this area. We had two weeks of pure heaven. We ate at several restaurants, but our favorite was, by far, Los Betos. They had the most authentic Mexican food we could find anywhere in the West, and the prices were great."