Which highways are the primary routes in Idaho?

Travel Destinations

By Kristy Tolley

Highways in Idaho

Idaho is a state located in the northwestern region of the United States. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. Highways are a critical component of the state’s transportation system, as they connect communities, businesses, and tourists to the various regions of Idaho. In this article, we will explore the primary highways that run through Idaho.

Interstate Highways in Idaho

Idaho has three primary interstate highways, including I-15, I-84, and I-90. I-15 runs through the eastern part of the state and connects Idaho Falls to Pocatello and the Utah state line. I-84 is the main east-west route in southern Idaho, connecting Boise to the Oregon state line. Finally, I-90 runs through the northern part of the state and connects Coeur d’Alene to Montana.

US Highways in Idaho

Idaho has seven primary US highways that run through the state, including US 2, US 12, US 20, US 26, US 30, US 93, and US 95. These highways connect various parts of the state to neighboring states and major cities.

Idaho State Highways

Idaho has a vast network of state highways that connect smaller towns and communities throughout the state. These highways are vital for local travel and economic development.

Highway 95: The North-South Route

Highway 95 is the primary north-south route in Idaho, connecting the state’s northern and southern regions. It runs through major cities such as Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston, and Boise, as well as smaller towns along the way.

Highway 84: The East-West Route

Highway 84 is the main east-west route in southern Idaho, connecting Boise to the Oregon state line. It is a major transportation route for goods and services, as well as commuters traveling between Idaho and neighboring states.

Highway 15: The Idaho Falls Route

Highway 15 runs through the eastern part of the state and connects Idaho Falls to Pocatello and the Utah state line. It is an important transportation route for the region’s agricultural industry and serves as a vital link between Idaho and Utah.

Highway 55: The Scenic Route

Highway 55 is a scenic route that runs from Marsing to New Meadows in western Idaho. It provides stunning views of the Payette River and surrounding mountains and is a popular route for tourists traveling to destinations such as McCall and Cascade.

Highway 21: The Ponderosa Pine Route

Highway 21 is known as the Ponderosa Pine Route and runs from Boise to Stanley in central Idaho. It passes through the Boise National Forest and provides access to outdoor recreational areas such as hot springs, hiking trails, and camping sites.

Highway 12: The Northwest Passage Route

Highway 12 connects Lewiston, Idaho, to Missoula, Montana, and is known as the Northwest Passage Route. It is a scenic highway that passes through the Clearwater National Forest and provides access to various recreational activities such as fishing, camping, and boating.

Highway 20: The Yellowstone-Teton Route

Highway 20 runs from Idaho Falls to the Montana state line and is known as the Yellowstone-Teton Route. It is a popular route for tourists traveling to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Highway 2: The Northern Panhandle Route

Highway 2 runs through the northern panhandle of Idaho and connects the state to Washington and Montana. It passes through the town of Sandpoint and provides access to outdoor recreational areas such as Schweitzer Mountain Resort and Lake Pend Oreille.

In conclusion, Idaho’s highway system plays a crucial role in connecting communities, businesses, and tourists to various parts of the state. Whether you are traveling for work or leisure, there is a highway that can take you where you need to go.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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