Idaho Map With Cities and Highways: A Detailed Guide

Idaho, located in the northwestern region of the United States, is a state known for its rugged wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cities. With its towering mountains, expansive forests, and rushing rivers, Idaho offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. To help visitors and residents navigate this beautiful state, we have created a detailed map of Idaho with cities and highways.

This map highlights Idaho’s major cities, including Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, and Coeur d’Alene, as well as its primary highways and roads. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply want to explore Idaho’s unique landscape and culture, this map is an essential tool. So, grab your map and get ready to discover all that Idaho has to offer, from its world-renowned ski resorts to its charming small towns and everything in between.

Printable Idaho Map With Cities and Highways

Printable Idaho Map With Cities and Highways
Image via Etsy seller EarthSquared

Cities

Boise

Boise, Idaho
Boise is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Idaho and is the county seat of Ada County. As of the 2020 census, there were 235,684 people residing in the city. Located on the Boise River in southwestern Idaho, it is 41 miles east of the Oregon border and 110 miles north of the Nevada border. The downtown area’s elevation is 2,704 feet above sea level.

Boise is also part of the Boise metropolitan area, also known as the Treasure Valley, which includes five counties with a combined population of 749,202, making it the most populous metropolitan area in Idaho. It contains the state’s three largest cities: Boise, Nampa, and Meridian. The Boise-Nampa Metropolitan Statistical Area is the 77th most populous metropolitan statistical area in the United States.

Boise is known for its vibrant downtown area, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Boise is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Meridian

Meridian is a city located in Ada County, Idaho. As of the 2020 census, the population of Meridian was 117,635, making it the second-largest city in the county and the state after Boise, the state capital. Meridian is considered the state’s fastest-growing city and is among the fastest-growing cities in the United States.

The city is known for its vibrant downtown area, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Meridian is also home to a number of parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park, which offers a range of activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

With its agreeable climate, welcoming people, and gorgeous natural surroundings, Meridian is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience its distinctive cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Nampa

Nampa is the largest city in Canyon County, Idaho, United States. Its population was 100,200 at the time of the 2020 Census, making it Idaho’s third-most populous city. Nampa is located about 20 miles west of Boise along Interstate 84, and six miles west of Meridian. It is the second principal city of the Boise metropolitan area.

The name “Nampa” may have come from a Shoshoni word meaning either moccasin or footprint, according to toponymist William O. Bright, the name comes from the Shoshoni word /nampai/, meaning “foot”. Nampa is known for its vibrant downtown area, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

The city is also home to a number of parks and outdoor recreation areas, including Lake Lowell, which offers a range of activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. With its wonderful climate, friendly people, and astounding natural surroundings, Nampa is a fulfilling destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to soak up the unique culture and beauty of the state.

Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls is a city in and the county seat of Bonneville County, Idaho, United States. It is the state’s largest city outside the Boise metropolitan area. As of the 2020 census, the population of Idaho Falls was 64,818. Idaho Falls serves as the commercial, cultural, and healthcare hub for Eastern Idaho, as well as parts of western Wyoming and southern Montana.

The city is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Museum of Idaho, which features exhibits on the history of the region, and the Idaho Falls Chukars minor league baseball team. Idaho Falls is also home to the College of Eastern Idaho, which offers a range of educational programs and courses.

The city is served by the Idaho Falls Regional Airport and is the principal city of the Idaho Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area and the Idaho Falls-Blackfoot-Rexburg, Idaho Combined Statistical Area. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Idaho Falls is a must-visit site for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the truly unique character of the area.

Caldwell

Caldwell, Idaho
Caldwell is a city in and the county seat of Canyon County, Idaho. The population was 59,996 at the time of the 2020 United States census. Caldwell is considered part of the Boise metropolitan area and is known for its vibrant downtown area, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

The city is also home to the College of Idaho, a private liberal arts college that has been ranked among the top colleges in the region. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, and the arts. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Caldwell is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Pocatello

master mechanix, old town car factory
Pocatello is the county seat and largest city of Bannock County, with a small portion on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation in neighboring Power County, in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Idaho. It is the principal city of the Pocatello metropolitan area, which encompasses all of Bannock County. As of the 2020 census, the population of Pocatello was 56,326, making it the sixth-largest city in the state, just behind Caldwell.

Pocatello is known for its vibrant downtown area, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city is also home to Idaho State University, a public research university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, and the arts. Pocatello is also home to the manufacturing facility of ON Semiconductor, a leading supplier of semiconductor-based solutions.

The city is at an elevation of 4,462 feet above sea level and is served by the Pocatello Regional Airport. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Pocatello is a great spot for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the distinctive cultural heritage and geographical charms of the state.

Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Coeur d’Alene is a city and the county seat of Kootenai County, Idaho, United States. It is the largest city in North Idaho and the principal city of the Coeur d’Alene Metropolitan Statistical Area. At the 2020 census, the city’s population was 54,628. Coeur d’Alene is known for its extraordinary natural beauty, with the city situated on the north shore of the 25-mile-long Lake Coeur d’Alene and to the west of the Coeur d’Alene Mountains.

The city is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Coeur d’Alene is a satellite city of Spokane, which is located about thirty miles to the west in the state of Washington. The two cities are the key components of the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene Combined Statistical Area, of which Coeur d’Alene is the third-largest city (after Spokane and its largest suburb, Spokane Valley).

Locally, Coeur d’Alene is known as the “Lake City,” or simply called by its initials, “CDA.” With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Coeur d’Alene is a hugely rewarding destination for anyone who wants to explore the cultural heritage and natural landscapes of Idaho.

Twin Falls

Twin Falls, ID
Twin Falls is the county seat and largest city of Twin Falls County, Idaho, United States. The city had a population of 51,807 as of the 2020 census. Twin Falls is located in the Magic Valley region and is the largest city in a 100-mile radius, making it the regional commercial center for south-central Idaho and northeastern Nevada. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Snake River Canyon running through the area.

Twin Falls is also home to the Perrine Bridge, which spans the canyon and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The city is the principal city of the Twin Falls metropolitan statistical area, which officially includes the entirety of Twin Falls and Jerome Counties. The border town resort community of Jackpot, Nevada, 50 miles south at the state line, is unofficially considered part of the greater Twin Falls area.

Twin Falls is also famous for being the site where daredevil Evel Knievel attempted to jump across the canyon in 1974 on a steam-powered rocket. The jump site is northeast of central Twin Falls, midway between Shoshone Falls and the Perrine Bridge. With its warm climate, welcoming locals, and gorgeous natural surroundings, Twin Falls is an ideal destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Post Falls

Post Falls is a city in Kootenai County, Idaho, United States. It is located just west of Coeur d’Alene and east of Spokane, Washington, making it the gateway city to North Idaho on I-90. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Spokane River running through the area and offering a range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.

The population of Post Falls was 38,485 at the time of the 2020 census, up from 17,247 in the 2000 census, making it Idaho’s eleventh-largest city and the second-largest city in North Idaho behind Coeur d’Alene. Post Falls is a growing city, with a vibrant downtown area that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Post Falls is a tremendous destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the rewarding culture and beauty of the state.

Rexburg

Rexburg, Idaho
Rexburg is a city in Madison County, Idaho, United States. The population was 39,409 at the 2020 census, making it the largest city and county seat of Madison County. Rexburg is known for its strong ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), with the city being home to Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho), a private institution operated by the church.

The university is a key component of the city’s economy and culture, with thousands of students from around the world attending classes and participating in a range of extracurricular activities. Rexburg is also known for its amazing natural beauty, with the city being situated in the heart of the Snake River Valley and surrounded by the scenic Teton and Sawtooth mountain ranges.

The city is the principal city of the Rexburg, ID Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Fremont and Madison Counties. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and attractive natural surroundings, Rexburg is an essential destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to enjoy the local heritage and beauty.

Lewiston

Lewiston, Idaho
Lewiston is a city and the county seat of Nez Perce County, Idaho, United States, located in the state’s north-central region. It is the third-largest city in the northern Idaho region, behind Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene, and the twelfth-largest in the state. Lewiston is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the city being located at the confluence of the Snake River and Clearwater River.

The city is also known for its unique location as it is reachable by some ocean-going vessels due to the dams and locks on the Snake and Columbia Rivers. The Port of Lewiston is Idaho’s only seaport and has the distinction of being the farthest inland port east of the West Coast. The Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport serves the city by air. Lewiston is the principal city of the Lewiston, ID-WA Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Nez Perce County and Asotin County, Washington.

As of the 2020 census, the population of Lewiston was 34,203, up from 31,894 in 2010. With its agreeable weather, friendly people, and beautiful geography, Lewiston is an ideal destination for anyone traveling to Idaho.

Eagle

Eagle is a city located in Ada County, Idaho, ten miles northwest of downtown Boise. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Boise River running through the area and offering a range of recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Eagle is also known for its vibrant downtown area, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

The population of Eagle was 30,346 at the time of the 2020 census, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Eagle is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the distinctive heritage and beauty of the state.

Kuna

Kuna is a city located in Ada County, Idaho, and is part of the Boise metropolitan area. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the surrounding landscape offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Kuna is also known for its vibrant community, with a range of cultural events and festivals taking place throughout the year.

The population of Kuna was 24,011 at the time of the 2020 census, making it one of the fastest-growing areas in Idaho. The city has nearly tripled in population between 2000 and 2010 and has seen an additional 60 percent gain between 2010 and 2020. With its pleasing climate, friendly locals, and gorgeous surroundings, Kuna is a wonderful choice for anyone who wants to savor the rich cultural heritage and beauty of the state.

Moscow

Moscow, Idaho
Moscow is a city located in the North Central region of Idaho, along the border with Washington. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the surrounding Palouse hills offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. Moscow is also home to the University of Idaho, the state’s land-grant institution and primary research university.

The university is the dominant employer in the city, but Moscow also serves as an agricultural and commercial hub for the Palouse region. The population of Moscow was 25,435 at the 2020 census, making it the largest city and county seat of Latah County.

The city is the principal city in the Moscow, Idaho Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Latah County. With its climate, congenial locals, and natural beauty, Moscow is a wonderful place for anyone who wants to experience the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Ammon

Ammon is a suburban city located in Bonneville County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Ammon foothills located to the west of the city and offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking and biking.

Ammon lies directly to the east of Idaho Falls and is the second most populous city in the Idaho Falls metropolitan area. The population of Ammon was 17,694 at the time of the 2020 census, making it the 15th most populous city in Idaho. The city has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with a growth rate of 123.3% between 2000 and 2010 based on the 2010 US Census.

With its great weather, community spirit, and pleasing landscapes, Ammon is an unmissable spot for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the rich culture and geography of the state.

Hayden

Hayden is a city located in Kootenai County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the surrounding landscape offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Hayden is a suburb of nearby Coeur d’Alene and is located in the northern portion of the state.

The population of Hayden was 15,570 at the time of the 2020 census, making it a relatively small city in Idaho. Despite its size, Hayden offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Hayden is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to explore the special cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Mountain Home

Mountain Home is the largest city and county seat of Elmore County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its rich history, with the original post office at Rattlesnake Station serving as a stagecoach stop on the Overland Stage Line. With the addition of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1883, the post office was moved downhill and west to the city’s present site.

Today, Mountain Home is a vibrant community with a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The population of Mountain Home was 15,979 at the time of the 2020 census, making it the principal city of the Mountain Home, Idaho Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Elmore County.

With its charming weather, affable residents, and pretty landscapes, Mountain Home is an essential spot for anyone traveling to the state who wants to explore culture and natural beauty.

Chubbuck

Chubbuck is a city located in Bannock County, Idaho, and is part of the Pocatello Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is known for its astounding natural beauty, with the surrounding landscape offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.

Chubbuck is located immediately north of Pocatello and has a unique history of opposing several consolidation proposals since the 1960s. The population of Chubbuck was 13,922 at the time of the 2010 census, making it a relatively small city in Idaho. Despite its size, Chubbuck offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

With its climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Chubbuck is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the local culture and geography.

Star

Star is a city located in northwestern Ada County, Idaho, with parts stretching into neighboring Canyon County. The city is known for its rich history, with its name originating from travelers in the 19th century who used the star on the schoolhouse to find east and west on their way to Middleton and Boise.

The name stuck and it became Star, Idaho. Today, Star is a rapidly growing suburb of Boise and is home to a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The population of Star was 5,793 at the time of the 2010 census, up from 1,795 in 2000. The city’s schools are shared with Middleton School District and West Ada School District, offering a range of educational opportunities for residents.

With its great weather, community spirit, and pleasing natural surroundings, Star is an unmissable destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to savor the distinctive heritage and beauty of the state.

Jerome

Jerome County Courthouse, Jerome, Idaho
Jerome is a city located in and the county seat of Jerome County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its rich agricultural heritage, with dairy farming being one of the main revenue sources for the local economy. Jerome is the second largest city in Idaho’s Magic Valley region, second only to Twin Falls which is located 10 miles southeast.

The population of Jerome was 10,890 at the time of the 2010 census, up from 7,780 in 2000. The city is the county seat of Jerome County and is part of the Twin Falls Micropolitan Statistical Area. Despite its relatively small size, Jerome offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

With its climate, convivial locals, and beautiful surroundings, Jerome is a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the rewarding local cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Garden City

Garden City is a delightful city located in Ada County, Idaho. Despite being nearly surrounded by Boise, Garden City retains a separate municipal government. The city is known for its rich history, with its name originating from the gardens raised by Chinese immigrants who lived in the area.

The name of the city’s only main street, Chinden Boulevard, is a portmanteau of the words “China” and “garden.” In recent years, Garden City has become a haven for artists’ studios, with a range of galleries and art spaces popping up throughout the city. The population of Garden City was 12,316 at the time of the 2020 census, making it a relatively small city in Idaho.

Despite its size, Garden City offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its pleasing climate, friendly people, and beautiful landscapes, Garden City is an ideal destination for anyone traveling to Idaho.

Blackfoot

_DSC1018
Blackfoot is a city located in Bingham County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its rich history, with its name originating from the nearby Snake River, which was known as the “Blackfoot River” by early explorers. Blackfoot is the county seat of Bingham County and is the principal city of the Blackfoot, Idaho, Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Bingham County.

The population of Blackfoot was 12,355 at the time of the 2020 census, making it a relatively small city in Idaho. Despite its size, Blackfoot offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Blackfoot is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Burley

Interstate 84, Burley, Idaho
Burley is a city located in Cassia and Minidoka counties in southern Idaho, United States. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the surrounding landscape offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Burley is the principal city of the Burley, Idaho, Micropolitan Statistical Area, which comprises Cassia and Minidoka counties.

The population of Burley was 11,704 at the time of the 2020 census, making it the largest city in Cassia and Minidoka counties and the third-largest city in Idaho’s Magic Valley region after Twin Falls and Jerome. The city is the county seat of Cassia County, offering a range of amenities and attractions, including a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

With its pleasing climate, affable locals, and pretty geographical surroundings, Burley is an unmissable spot for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to explore the local culture and landscape.

Middleton

Middleton is a city located in Canyon County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its astounding natural beauty, with the surrounding landscape offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Middleton is part of the Boise City–Nampa, Idaho Metropolitan Statistical Area and has experienced significant population growth in recent years.

The population of Middleton amounted to 9,091 at the 2021 census estimate, up from 5,524 at the 2010 census and 2,978 in 2000. Despite its relatively small size, Middleton offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its climate, community, and gorgeous natural attractions, Middleton is a fulfilling destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Rathdrum

Rathdrum is a charming city located in Kootenai County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its rich history, with its name originating from the village of Rathdrum in County Wicklow, Ireland. Rathdrum is part of the Coeur d’Alene Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes the entire county.

Despite its relatively small size, Rathdrum offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The population of Rathdrum was 6,826 at the time of the 2010 census, up from 4,816 in 2000, indicating the city’s growth in recent years.

With great weather, friendly residents, and beautiful geography, Rathdrum is a satisfying spot for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to explore the distinctive heritage and beauty of the state.

Sandpoint

Bonner County Courthouse, Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint is a picturesque city located in Bonner County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the surrounding landscape offering a range of recreational activities such as skiing, hiking, and fishing. Sandpoint is the largest city in, and the county seat of, Bonner County, with a population of 8,639 at the time of the 2020 census.

The major economic contributors of Sandpoint include forest products, light manufacturing, tourism, recreation, and government services. As the largest service center in the two northern Idaho counties, as well as northwestern Montana, it has an active retail sector. Sandpoint lies on the shores of Idaho’s largest lake, Lake Pend Oreille, and is surrounded by three major mountain ranges, the Selkirk, Cabinet, and Bitterroot ranges.

The city is home to Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Idaho’s largest ski resort, and is on the International Selkirk Loop and two National Scenic Byways. Sandpoint has received numerous distinctions awarded by national media, including being named the nation’s “Most Beautiful Small Town” by Rand McNally and USA Today in 2011.

With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Sandpoint is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Hailey

From the hotel parking lot
Hailey is a charming city located in the Wood River Valley of the central part of the U.S. state of Idaho. The city is known for its rich history, with its name originating from John Hailey, a two-time Congressional delegate from the Idaho Territory. Hailey is the county seat of Blaine County, and the population was 7,960 at the time of the 2010 census, up from 6,200 in 2000.

Hailey is the site of Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN), the airport for the resort area of Sun Valley/Ketchum, located 12 miles north. The town of Bellevue is a few miles south. From 1882 to 1895, Hailey was the county seat of now-defunct Alturas County.

Despite its relatively small size, Hailey offers a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its climate, locals, and beautiful landscapes, Hailey is a marvelous destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the local culture and geography.

Payette

Payette, Idaho
Payette is a charming city located in Payette County, Idaho, United States. The city is known for its rich history, with its name originating from Francois Payette, a French-Canadian fur trapper and explorer who first visited the area in the early 19th century. Payette is the county seat of Payette County, and the population was 7,433 at the time of the 2010 census.

The city is part of the Ontario, OR−ID Micropolitan Statistical Area, offering a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Despite its relatively small size, Payette offers a range of recreational activities, with the surrounding landscape offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Payette is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Emmett

View of Emmett, Idaho from Freezeout Hill
Emmett is a delightful city located in Gem County, Idaho, United States. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the city is surrounded by the Payette River and the Boise National Forest, offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. Emmett is the county seat and the only city in Gem County, with a population of 6,557 at the time of the 2010 census, up from 5,490 in 2000.

The city is part of the Boise−Nampa, Idaho Metropolitan Statistical Area, offering a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Despite its relatively small size, Emmett has a rich history, with its name originating from the son of the town’s founder, who was killed in a gunfight in 1900.

With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Emmett is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Idaho who wants to experience the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state.

Fruitland

Fruitland is a characterful city located in Payette County, Idaho, United States. The city lies along the Snake and Payette rivers and is known for its stunning natural beauty, with apple orchards that surround the community. Fruitland is named after these orchards, and its slogan is “The Big Apple of Idaho.”

The city is located along U.S. Route 95 in the Treasure Valley of southwest Idaho, about 50 miles west of Boise on the border with Oregon. Fruitland is part of the Ontario Micropolitan Area, offering a range of amenities and attractions, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Despite its relatively small size, Fruitland has experienced significant growth in recent years, with a population of 5,311 at the time of the 2020 census. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings, Fruitland is a rewarding choice for anyone eager to explore the local culture and landscapes.

Highways

Route 12

U.S. Route 12, Clearwater River Between Lewiston and Orofino, Idaho
U.S. Route 12 (US-12) is a scenic highway located in North Central Idaho. The route extends 174.410 miles from the Washington state line in Lewiston east to the Montana state line at Lolo Pass, following the route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

The highway is known as the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway and was previously known as the Lewis and Clark Highway. US-12 is a popular route for travelers seeking to experience the stunning natural beauty of the region, with the highway offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The route is dotted with a variety of towns and cities, including the city of Orofino, which is known for its rich history and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Route 20

U.S. Route 20, Island Park, Idaho
U.S. Highway 20 (US 20) is a scenic highway located in Idaho that runs in an east-west direction. The route starts northwest of Parma at the Oregon state line and extends to Montana, with the Yellowstone National Park west entrance located 9.6 miles away from the Idaho-Montana border.

US 20 is a popular route for travelers seeking to experience the stunning natural beauty of the region, with the highway offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The route is dotted with a variety of towns and cities, including the city of Boise, which is known for its vibrant culture and outdoor recreational opportunities.

US 20 is also known for its historical significance, as it was once a major route for pioneers traveling westward during the 19th century.

Route 26

Blackfoot, Idaho on Parkway Drive looking North
U.S. Route 26 (US 26) is a scenic highway that runs east-west across south-central Idaho for 402.5 miles. The route enters the state from Oregon across the Snake River east of Nyssa, Oregon, concurrent with US 20, and exits into Wyoming northwest of Alpine. US 26 runs through a range of communities, from large population centers like Boise and Idaho Falls to smaller towns such as Parma, Notus, Garden City, Shoshone, Richfield, Carey, Arco, Blackfoot, Swan Valley, and Irwin.

While a vast majority of its route is two-lane and rural, with the exception of portions in and around major towns and cities, US 26 does have significant four-lane segments within the Boise metropolitan area and east of Idaho Falls.

Despite its extensive length, US 26 has many hundreds of miles that run concurrently with other highways, including US 20, I-84, US 93, and I-15.

Route 30

U.S. Route 30 (US 30) is a scenic highway that runs northwest-southeast across the southern half of lower Idaho for 455.481 miles. The route enters the state from Oregon across the Snake River in Fruitland and exits into Wyoming east of Dingle. US 30 runs through a range of communities, from large population centers like Boise, Twin Falls, and Pocatello to smaller towns such as Fruitland and Montpelier.

One of the highlights of the route is the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, a picturesque section of US 30 in southern Idaho between the towns of Bliss and Buhl. This section of the highway dips down into the Hagerman Valley and a canyon of the Snake River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Route 89

Idaho
U.S. Route 89 (US 89) is a scenic highway that partially circumnavigates Bear Lake in Idaho, which straddles the Utah-Idaho state line. The route is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the highway offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Bear Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other recreational activities. The route passes through a range of communities, including the city of Montpelier, which is known for its rich history and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Route 91

U.S. Route 91 Near Idaho-Utah Border
U.S. Route 91 (US 91) is a scenic highway that serves the Idaho portion of the Cache Valley, with Preston as the largest city. The route passes by the Bear River Massacre Site, a National Historic Landmark, near Preston, and over the geologically significant Red Rock Pass, near Downey. After leaving Cache Valley, the highway rejoins Interstate 15 and passes through Pocatello, where US 91, US 30, and I-15 Business Loop run concurrently, passing through a small portion of the Idaho State University campus.

US 30 separates from US 91 near Pocatello’s city hall, at what was once the starting point of one of Idaho’s first designated highways, the Yellowstone Park Highway. From this point, the highway generally follows the original route of the Yellowstone Park Highway northeastward until it reaches its terminus at its intersection with US 26, south of Idaho Falls.

Route 93

U.S. Route 93 (US 93) is a scenic highway that runs in a north-south direction through the state of Idaho. The route is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the highway offering gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape.

US 93 passes through a range of communities, from larger cities like Twin Falls and Salmon to smaller towns such as Challis and Mackay. The route is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other recreational activities.

Route 95

U.S. Route 95 Between New Meadows and Riggins, Idaho
U.S. Route 95 (US-95) is a north-south highway that spans over 538 miles on the western border of Idaho, stretching from Oregon to British Columbia. The route is known as the North and South Highway and serves as the primary north-south highway in Idaho.

US 95 connects the Boise metropolitan area in southwestern Idaho with small cities such as Fruitland, Payette, Weiser, and New Meadows within the Mountain Time Zone portion of the state.

North of the Salmon River, where it enters the Pacific Time Zone, US 95 provides an important link to the cities of Grangeville (via SH 13), Lewiston (via US 12), and directly serves Moscow, Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, and Bonners Ferry, before reaching the Canadian border at its northern terminus and continuing into the province of British Columbia as Highway 95. The route is also the only road that connects the Idaho Panhandle with the rest of the state.

Interstates

Interstate 15

Interstate 15 Near Blackfoot, Idaho
Interstate 15 (I-15) is an integral part of the Interstate Highway System that spans from San Diego, California, to Sweetgrass, Montana. In Idaho, the Interstate Highway covers a distance of 196 miles (315 km) from the Utah state line near Woodruff north to the Montana state line at Monida Pass.

I-15 serves as the primary north-south highway of Eastern Idaho, connecting Pocatello and Idaho Falls, the fourth and fifth largest cities in Idaho, and the smaller county seats of Malad City, Blackfoot, and Dubois. The route also connects these cities with Salt Lake City to the south and Butte to the north. I-15 has business loops through McCammon, Inkom, Pocatello, Blackfoot, and Idaho Falls.

Interstate 86

Interstate 86, Chubbuck, Idaho
Interstate 86 (I-86) is an east-west intrastate Interstate Highway that is located entirely within the state of Idaho. The highway spans approximately 63 miles (101 km) from an intersection with I-84 east of Declo in rural Cassia County to an intersection with I-15 in Chubbuck, just north of Pocatello. I-86 is part of the main route from Boise and Twin Falls to Idaho Falls and the upper Snake River region.

The highway runs through a sparsely populated region along the south side of the Snake River and is mostly concurrent with US Highway 30 (US-30), which it replaced in the 1970s. It passes through American Falls at its midpoint and has a business route that serves the city center. I-86 also serves Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, Massacre Rocks State Park, the Fort Hall Indian Reservation, and Pocatello Regional Airport.

Interstate 84

Interstate 84 - Idaho
Interstate 84 (I-84) is a major Interstate Highway that traverses the state of Idaho from the Oregon state line in the northwest to the Utah state line in the southeast. The highway primarily follows the Snake River across a plain that includes the cities of Boise, Mountain Home, and Twin Falls. I-84 is one of the busiest highways in Idaho and is designated as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway.

The highway runs for 276 miles (444 km) within Idaho, beginning near Ontario, Oregon, and traveling concurrent with several U.S. routes through the Boise metropolitan area and Mountain Home towards Twin Falls. I-84 splits away from US 30 and the Snake River at a junction with I-86 near Declo, where it turns southeast to cross the Sublett Range into northern Utah. The highway also has an auxiliary route, I-184, which serves downtown Boise.

Interstate 90

Interstate 90, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Interstate 90 (I-90) is a transcontinental Interstate Highway that runs east-west across the northern United States. Within the state of Idaho, the freeway travels for 74 miles (119 km) from the Washington border near Spokane to Coeur d’Alene and the panhandle region at the north end of the state.

After traveling through the Silver Valley along the Coeur d’Alene River in the Bitterroot Range, I-90 crosses into Montana at Lookout Pass. I-90 was created by the federal government in 1957, following the general route of U.S. Route 10 (US 10) and the mid-19th century Mullan Road constructed by the U.S. Army. The freeway was constructed in stages between 1960 and 1992.

Caleb Pike
About the author

Caleb Pike is an avid hiker and nature lover, with a passion for exploring the great outdoors. He's a writer, photographer, and adventurer, always seeking new trails to blaze and peaks to conquer.