Understanding Idaho’s Neighboring States
Idaho is a state located in the northwestern region of the United States. It shares its borders with six different states, each with its unique topography, culture, and history. While it is common knowledge that Idaho shares borders with Washington, Montana, Nevada, Wyoming, Utah, and Oregon, it is essential to understand the states that are not adjacent to Idaho to appreciate the country’s diversity.
The Western Border: The State that Shares the Pacific Coast
Idaho does not share its western border with any state, instead of being separated from the Pacific Ocean by the state of Oregon. Oregon has a rich history and culture, and it is known for its scenic beauty. The state is famous for its coastline, which stretches for over 500 miles, and its vast forests, which cover approximately 50% of the state. Some of the state’s other natural attractions include Crater Lake National Park, Mount Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge. Oregon is also home to several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, and Portland State University.
The Southern Border: The State with a Rich Musical Heritage
Nevada is the state that shares its southern border with Idaho. Nevada is known for its s, which attract millions of tourists each year. The state is also home to some of the country’s most iconic natural features, including the Hoover Dam, Lake Tahoe, and the Valley of Fire. Nevada has a rich musical heritage, with the city of Las Vegas being particularly famous for its live performances and entertainment. The state is also home to several notable colleges and universities, including the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the University of Nevada, Reno.
The Eastern Border: The State with the Highest Population Density
Wyoming shares its eastern border with Idaho. Wyoming is known for its rugged natural beauty, including its national parks, such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton. The state is also home to several significant landmarks, including Devil’s Tower and Fossil Butte National Monument. Wyoming has the lowest population of any state in the United States, with a total population of just over 580,000. Despite its low population density, Wyoming has several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Wyoming.
The Northern Border: The State with a Longest Coastline
Montana shares its northern border with Idaho. Montana is known for its scenic beauty, including Glacier National Park and the Rocky Mountains. The state has the longest coastline of any landlocked state in the United States, thanks to Flathead Lake, which covers nearly 200 square miles. Montana is also home to several institutions of higher learning, including Montana State University and the University of Montana.
The Northeastern Border: The State with "The Great Lake State" Nickname
North Dakota shares its northeastern border with Idaho. North Dakota is known for its vast prairies and rolling hills, as well as its oil industry. The state is also known for its nickname, "The Great Lake State," which comes from its location on the shores of Lake Michigan. North Dakota is home to several institutions of higher learning, including North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota.
The Southeastern Border: The State that Borders the Appalachian Mountains
Utah shares its southeastern border with Idaho. Utah is known for its natural beauty, including its national parks, such as Zion and Bryce Canyon. The state is also famous for its connection to the Mormon faith, with the city of Salt Lake City being the faith’s headquarters. Utah shares its borders with the Appalachian Mountains, known for their scenic beauty and hiking trails. Utah is home to several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Utah and Brigham Young University.
The Southwest Border: The State with a Diverse Culture
Idaho does not share its southwestern border with any state, as it is bordered by Nevada to the south and Oregon to the west. However, California is the nearest state to Idaho’s southwest. California is known for its diverse culture, which is reflected in its music, art, and cuisine. The state is also home to several notable colleges and universities, including the University of California, Los Angeles, and Stanford University.
North of the Southern Border: The State with a Wide Range of Landscapes
Idaho shares its northern border with Montana. British Columbia, Canada, is its nearest neighbor to the north. British Columbia is known for its vast and diverse landscapes, which range from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the Pacific coastline. The province is also home to several institutions of higher learning, including the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University.
South of the Northern Border: The State with a Low Population Density
Idaho does not share its southern border with any state, as Nevada is to the south and Wyoming is to the east. However, Utah is the nearest state to Idaho’s south. Utah is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its national parks and ski resorts. The state has a relatively low population density compared to other states, with a total population of just over 3 million.
East of the Western Border: The State with the Most National Parks
Idaho shares its western border with Oregon. Washington is the nearest state to Idaho’s west. Washington is known for its natural beauty, including its national parks, such as Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park. The state has the most national parks of any state in the United States, with a total of three. Washington is also home to several notable colleges and universities, including the University of Washington and Washington State University.
West of the Eastern Border: The State with the Largest Forest Area
Idaho shares its eastern border with Wyoming. The nearest state to Idaho’s east is South Dakota. South Dakota is known for its vast forests, which cover approximately 80% of the state. The state is also home to several institutions of higher learning, including the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University.
