Idaho State Maps

These maps show Idaho State Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregions.





Idaho County Map

The Counties of Idaho and Their Name Origins

Idaho County Sizes Map

Idaho State County Sizes Map

Smallest County in Idaho State

Payette County: 409 sq miles

Largest County in Idaho State

Idaho County: 8483 sq miles

Mean and Median Area of Counties in Idaho State

Mean Area: 2753.50 sq miles

Median Area: 2050.00 sq miles

Idaho Major Cities Map

Major Cities of Idaho State and Their Locations

In Idaho State, most major cities are strategically located near rivers, highways, or along historic transportation routes. Below are examples of each type:

1. Boise:

The largest city in Idaho, Boise, is located along the Boise River, serving as a cultural and economic hub. It is the capital city and the center of commerce, culture, and government in the state, with a growing technology sector and a vibrant downtown area.

2. Meridian:

Meridian, situated just west of Boise, is one of Idaho's fastest-growing cities. It is located near major transportation routes, including Interstate 84, making it an ideal suburban center with a mix of residential and commercial development.

3. Nampa:

Located in the Treasure Valley, Nampa is an important agricultural and industrial city. It is known for its connection to farming and food production, with proximity to the Snake River and major transportation routes like Interstate 84 supporting its growth.

4. Idaho Falls:

Idaho Falls is located along the Snake River in eastern Idaho and serves as a regional hub for healthcare, education, and agriculture. Its position near Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks makes it a gateway city for tourism and outdoor activities.

5. Pocatello:

Pocatello, known as the "Gateway to the Northwest," is located along the Portneuf River and major railroad routes. It has a rich history as a transportation and trade center, and today it is home to Idaho State University, providing a strong educational foundation for the region.

6. Twin Falls:

Situated near the Snake River Canyon, Twin Falls is a center for agriculture and food processing, known for its proximity to Shoshone Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the U.S. The city’s location near highways and its agricultural base make it a vital part of southern Idaho.

7. Coeur d'Alene:

Located in northern Idaho near Coeur d'Alene Lake, this city is known for its natural beauty and tourism, especially related to outdoor recreation. It is also part of a growing metropolitan area that extends into eastern Washington, providing access to both lake and mountain activities.

8. Lewiston:

Lewiston, located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, is the most inland seaport in the Pacific Northwest. It plays a key role in Idaho’s transportation and shipping industries, connecting Idaho to international trade routes via the Columbia River system.

9. Caldwell:

Caldwell, part of the Boise metropolitan area, is located near the Snake River and Interstate 84. It is a hub for agriculture and education, home to the College of Idaho, and it hosts events such as the annual Caldwell Night Rodeo.

10. Rexburg:

Rexburg, located in eastern Idaho, is a college town that is home to Brigham Young University-Idaho. It is situated near the Teton Mountains and provides easy access to outdoor recreation in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons.




Topographic Tour of Idaho

Idaho State Shaded Terrain Map
Idaho State Shaded Relief Map


Idaho State offers diverse terrains, shaped by its unique geology, climate, and natural features. From rugged mountains and deep river canyons to expansive plains and volcanic landscapes, Idaho presents a stunning variety of landforms.

1. Snake River Plain

The Snake River Plain is a wide, arid stretch of land that dominates southern Idaho. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the plain is known for its fertile volcanic soils, making it a prime agricultural region. It is also home to the Snake River, which has carved out dramatic landscapes such as Shoshone Falls and the Snake River Canyon.

2. Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains, running through central and northern Idaho, are characterized by towering peaks, deep valleys, and alpine meadows. This region includes the rugged Sawtooth Range, known for its dramatic scenery, and the Bitterroot Range, which defines Idaho’s border with Montana. These mountains are popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing, with abundant wildlife and pristine wilderness areas.

3. Sawtooth Range

The Sawtooth Range, part of the Rocky Mountains, is one of the most iconic mountain ranges in Idaho. It features jagged peaks, clear glacial lakes, and dense pine forests. The area is protected as part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, backpacking, and camping.

4. Owyhee Uplands

Located in southwestern Idaho, the Owyhee Uplands are an isolated, semi-arid region defined by rugged plateaus, deep river canyons, and remote desert landscapes. The Owyhee Canyonlands, carved by the Owyhee River, provide some of the most striking desert scenery in the state. This region is known for its remoteness, making it a prime destination for backcountry adventurers.

5. Clearwater Mountains

The Clearwater Mountains, located in north-central Idaho, are a heavily forested region known for their steep ridges and deep valleys. This area is home to the Clearwater River, which provides critical habitat for salmon and steelhead. The rugged terrain and dense forests make this area ideal for hunting, fishing, and camping.

6. Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, is located along Idaho’s western border with Oregon. Carved by the Snake River, the canyon plunges over 8,000 feet from the peaks of the Seven Devils Mountains to the river below. The steep, rocky walls of the canyon offer breathtaking views and opportunities for whitewater rafting, fishing, and hiking.

7. Camas Prairie

The Camas Prairie, located in central Idaho, is a high-elevation plateau surrounded by mountains. Historically important to Native American tribes, the prairie is known for its wildflower blooms in the spring, especially the camas flower, which once served as a staple food source. The prairie is also a key agricultural area, with rich soils supporting farming and grazing.

8. Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in southern Idaho is one of the most unique landscapes in the state, shaped by volcanic activity over the last 15,000 years. This vast expanse of lava fields, cinder cones, and volcanic craters gives the region a surreal, lunar-like appearance. Visitors can explore caves, hike through lava flows, and learn about Idaho's volcanic past.

9. Palouse Hills

The Palouse Hills, located in the northern part of Idaho, are known for their gently rolling, fertile loess hills. The Palouse is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the U.S., particularly for wheat and legumes. The unique landscape is characterized by undulating hills that change color with the seasons, providing a picturesque backdrop for the region's farms and small towns.

10. Salmon River Mountains

The Salmon River Mountains are a vast, remote mountain range in central Idaho, known for their rugged, wilderness character. The Salmon River, also known as the "River of No Return," flows through this region, carving deep canyons and providing world-class whitewater rafting. The Salmon River Mountains are part of the largest wilderness area in the contiguous United States, the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness.



Idaho Physiographic Regions

Physiographic Regions of Idaho

Basin and Range, Great Basin

This region includes the southern part of Idaho and is characterized by flat desert basins and isolated mountain ranges. It is part of the larger Basin and Range Province, known for its arid climate, sparse vegetation, and geological features such as fault-block mountains and broad valleys.

Columbia Plateau, Snake River Plain

The Snake River Plain stretches across southern Idaho, known for its fertile volcanic soil and significant agricultural production. The plain was formed by ancient volcanic activity and later shaped by the Snake River. This region is a vital agricultural hub, particularly for crops like potatoes and wheat, and features a semi-arid climate.

Middle Rocky Mountains

The Middle Rocky Mountains region includes parts of central and eastern Idaho, home to rugged peaks, valleys, and alpine environments. This area includes the Teton Range and the Sawtooth Range, known for their dramatic scenery and recreational opportunities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. Glaciers have also played a role in shaping the region’s landscape.

Northern Rocky Mountains

The Northern Rocky Mountains dominate the landscape of northern Idaho. This region features steep, forested mountains and deep river valleys. The Bitterroot Range and Cabinet Mountains are part of this area, which is known for its dense coniferous forests, pristine wilderness, and important wildlife habitats. The Northern Rockies are also rich in mineral resources, including silver and gold.

Columbia Plateau, Blue Mountain

The Blue Mountains region in western Idaho is part of the larger Columbia Plateau. This area is characterized by rolling hills, deep river canyons, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir. The Blue Mountains are a mix of volcanic and sedimentary rocks, shaped by tectonic activity and erosion over time. It supports diverse wildlife and is an important area for recreation and forestry.

Columbia Plateau, Payette

The Payette section of the Columbia Plateau lies in southwestern Idaho, featuring a semi-arid landscape of rolling hills and flat valleys. It is an important agricultural area due to the rich soils and irrigation provided by the Payette River. The region also includes sections of high desert and is known for outdoor activities such as rafting and fishing along the Payette River.

Columbia Plateau, Walla Walla Plateau

The Walla Walla Plateau extends into southeastern Idaho and is characterized by broad, rolling hills and fertile soils. It is a subregion of the larger Columbia Plateau, with a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic flows and glacial activity. Agriculture, especially wheat farming, is prominent in this area due to the fertile loess soils.

Federal Lands in Idaho

Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in Idaho

1. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, part of which lies in Idaho, is one of the most visited and renowned national parks in the U.S. The park features geothermal wonders, including Old Faithful, and diverse ecosystems that support species like bison, wolves, and grizzly bears. While the majority of the park is in Wyoming, the Idaho portion provides access to the park's western wilderness.

2. Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Located in central Idaho, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area offers rugged mountain landscapes and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. With over 700 miles of trails and 40 peaks that reach over 10,000 feet, the Sawtooth Range is one of Idaho's premier wilderness destinations.

3. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Craters of the Moon National Monument is a vast expanse of volcanic rock and unique geological formations in southern Idaho. The monument preserves lava flows, cinder cones, and caves, which make it a striking, moon-like landscape. Visitors can explore the caves, hike through lava fields, and learn about Idaho's volcanic past.

4. Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness

The Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness is the largest contiguous wilderness area in the contiguous United States, encompassing over 2.3 million acres. Located in central Idaho, this rugged wilderness is home to the Salmon River, known for its whitewater rafting, and vast mountain ranges, which provide remote areas for hiking, wildlife viewing, and solitude.

5. Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests cover over 4 million acres in north-central Idaho and include portions of the Bitterroot Mountains. These forests offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and hunting, and are historically significant for the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Nez Perce tribe. The area also contains the Lochsa and Selway Rivers, known for their wild and scenic beauty.

6. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area straddles the Idaho-Oregon border and includes the deepest river gorge in North America. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the area is known for its dramatic landscapes, whitewater rafting on the Snake River, and abundant wildlife. The canyon’s steep walls and remote trails provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and wilderness exploration.

7. City of Rocks National Reserve

Located in southern Idaho, City of Rocks National Reserve is famous for its striking rock formations, which attract rock climbers and hikers. The area also has a rich historical significance as a landmark along the California Trail used by pioneers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the unique geological features of the reserve.

8. Curlew National Grassland

The Curlew National Grassland in southeastern Idaho is a relatively small but ecologically significant area managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It preserves native grassland habitats that support a variety of wildlife, including pronghorn, elk, and numerous bird species. The grassland is a popular area for hunting, birdwatching, and camping.

9. Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest covers over 4.3 million acres of central Idaho, including parts of the Salmon River Mountains and the Lost River Range. The forest is home to Borah Peak, Idaho’s highest point, and the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, a popular destination for rafting. The rugged terrain offers remote wilderness areas for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

10. Payette National Forest

The Payette National Forest in west-central Idaho spans nearly 2.3 million acres of forested mountains, high desert plateaus, and rivers. The forest provides habitat for elk, bear, and wolves and offers recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The Payette River is particularly famous for its whitewater rafting.



Ecoregions of Idaho

Ecoregions of Idaho

Bear Lake Section

The Bear Lake section in southeast Idaho is known for its rich biodiversity and agricultural importance. The region includes Bear Lake itself, a large natural lake that straddles the Idaho-Utah border, providing critical habitat for numerous wildlife species, as well as irrigation resources for local agriculture.

Bitterroot Mountains Section

This region along the Idaho-Montana border is dominated by rugged terrain, dense coniferous forests, and steep valleys. The Bitterroot Mountains are part of the larger Northern Rocky Mountains and provide critical habitats for wildlife, including grizzly bears and wolves. The area is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and backcountry camping.

Snake River Basalts Section

The Snake River Basalts cover a vast portion of southern Idaho, characterized by its volcanic landscape. The lava fields and volcanic rock formations are a distinctive feature of this ecoregion. It includes Craters of the Moon National Monument and is home to agricultural lands that rely on irrigation from the Snake River for crop production.

Beaverhead Mountains Section

The Beaverhead Mountains section forms part of the Idaho-Montana border and includes rugged mountain terrain with steep, forested slopes. This region is part of the Rocky Mountain chain and supports a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, and mountain goats. The area is known for its remoteness and provides excellent opportunities for backcountry recreation.

Bitterroot Valley Section

The Bitterroot Valley Section is a more open, valley-dominated area within the Bitterroot range. It is characterized by wide, flat valleys surrounded by forested mountains, and is one of the most agriculturally productive regions in northern Idaho. The valley is known for its lush forests, fertile soils, and scenic landscapes.

Blue Mountains Section

The Blue Mountains ecoregion is located in western Idaho and extends into eastern Oregon and Washington. This area is characterized by its rolling hills, forested slopes, and deep river canyons. The forests are primarily composed of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, and the area is important for timber production and wildlife habitat.

Challis Volcanics Section

The Challis Volcanics section is located in central Idaho and is known for its volcanic features, such as cinder cones, lava flows, and volcanic domes. The rugged landscape is interspersed with forested regions and is part of the Challis National Forest. This area supports diverse plant and animal life and is known for outdoor recreation such as hiking and hunting.

Flathead Valley Section

The Flathead Valley Section extends into northern Idaho, and is known for its broad valleys and agricultural lands. The region features a mix of forested hills and wide open valleys, with fertile soils supporting farming and grazing. The Flathead River runs through this region, contributing to its scenic beauty and agricultural productivity.

Idaho Batholith Section

The Idaho Batholith is a massive granitic formation that covers a large portion of central Idaho. This ecoregion is defined by its rugged, mountainous terrain, deeply incised rivers, and forested slopes. The area is sparsely populated and contains some of the most remote wilderness in the contiguous U.S., providing habitat for large mammals such as wolves, mountain lions, and elk.

Northwestern Basin and Range Section

The Northwestern Basin and Range section includes parts of southern Idaho and is characterized by its arid basins, scattered mountain ranges, and desert scrublands. This ecoregion is home to sagebrush steppe ecosystems, which support species such as pronghorn and sage grouse. The area’s dry climate and unique geology make it an important region for scientific study and conservation.

Okanogan Highlands Section

The Okanogan Highlands, located in northern Idaho, are a hilly region characterized by forested terrain and alpine meadows. The area receives more precipitation than the surrounding regions, leading to dense forests of coniferous trees such as Douglas fir and lodgepole pine. The highlands provide important habitats for wildlife and are used for timber production and recreation.

Overthrust Mountains Section

The Overthrust Mountains, located in southeastern Idaho, are a part of the larger Rocky Mountain range. This region is known for its complex geological structures, with layers of rock that have been pushed upward and folded by tectonic forces. The rugged mountains and forested slopes offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry exploration.

Owyhee Uplands Section

The Owyhee Uplands in southwestern Idaho are a remote and arid region known for their high plateaus, deep canyons, and volcanic rock formations. This ecoregion is part of the Great Basin and features desert habitats that support species like bighorn sheep and golden eagles. The Owyhee River has carved dramatic canyons in the landscape, making it a prime destination for outdoor adventurers.

Palouse Prairie Section

The Palouse Prairie is located in northern Idaho and is known for its rolling hills and fertile loess soils. Historically covered by grasslands, the region has been largely converted to agricultural use, primarily for wheat and legumes. The unique landscape of undulating hills creates a distinctive visual character, and efforts are underway to preserve remnants of the original prairie ecosystem.

Yellowstone Highlands Section

The Yellowstone Highlands section covers the southeastern corner of Idaho, near the border with Wyoming and Montana. This ecoregion is dominated by forested mountains, geothermal features, and high-elevation plateaus. It is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest intact temperate ecosystems in the world, and provides critical habitat for wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and elk.