Great American West - Idaho, The Gem State

Boise, capital of Idaho, spreads along its namesake river at the foot of the Boise Foothills, where the desert plain meets the first heights of the Rocky Mountains. A city of surprising vibrancy, it owes its name to the cottonwoods that struck the early French explorers (les bois, "the woods") and today combines a dynamic downtown, a growing culinary scene and exceptional access to nature. Boise still strongly preserves its Basque cultural heritage from its early settlers.The Boise River Greenbelt, a long green path along the river, crosses the city linking parks and neighborhoods, while the picturesque Basque Block tells the heritage of the largest Basque community in the United States, with restaurants and its own museum. All around lie trails for hiking and mountain biking, rivers for rafting and ski resorts within easy reach. A city with an enviable quality of life, perfect for lovers of outdoor sport and the authenticity of the American West.

McCall overlooks the shores of Payette Lake, a refined mountain resort in the wooded heart of central Idaho. A ski resort in winter and a lakeside destination in summer, it offers beaches, water sports, hiking and hot springs nearby. The famous Winter Carnival, with its ice sculptures, enlivens the town in the cold season. McCall is the ideal destination for those seeking alpine lakes, outdoor sport and the relaxed atmosphere of Idaho's mountains.

Lewiston sits at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers in western Idaho, the most inland river port on the Pacific coast. The town is the gateway to spectacular Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, carved by the Snake River on the Oregon border. Jetboat excursions and rafting set off from its waters.

Coeur d'Alene is a picturesque town in northern Idaho, spread along the shores of its namesake lake, considered among the most beautiful in the United States. Its crystalline waters, framed by mountains and forests, offer cruises, water sports and a famous golf course with a floating green. The lively lakefront, with its resort and city beach, makes it a much-loved summer destination, while in winter the nearby mountains draw skiers. Between sparkling waters, mountains and a holiday mood, Coeur d'Alene is the lakeside jewel of northern Idaho.

Missoula rises in western Montana, at the confluence of five valleys and three rivers, a lively university town home to the University of Montana, nicknamed the 'Garden City of Montana'. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it is a paradise for fly fishing, rafting, hiking and cycling. Its centre alternates craft breweries, galleries, farmers' markets and a vibrant cultural scene. The 'M' on the hill of Mount Sentinel offers views over the valley. Between outdoor nature, youthful energy and an independent spirit, Missoula is one of Montana's most beloved and lively cities.

Stanley gathers at the foot of the spectacular Sawtooth Mountains, in the mountainous heart of Idaho, a tiny village surrounded by grand nature. The jagged peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes and the Salmon River make it a paradise for hikers, rafters and fly-fishers. Natural hot springs dot the surroundings. Stanley is the ideal destination for those seeking wild mountains, outdoor adventure and the purest wilderness of Idaho.

Ketchum lies at the foot of the Smoky Mountains in mountainous central Idaho, just minutes from the famous Sun Valley resort. The town keeps the feel of a frontier settlement turned refined alpine retreat: compact streets lined with art galleries, bistros and boutiques, and a packed calendar of outdoor pursuits. In winter it is a skiing kingdom on the slopes of Bald Mountain; in summer it becomes a base for hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing along the Big Wood River. Ernest Hemingway lived here for years and rests in the small local cemetery. Ketchum is an ideal destination for those seeking nature, sport and elegant calm among Idaho's peaks.

Twin Falls rises in southern Idaho, dramatically perched on the edge of the deep Snake River Canyon, spanned by the imposing Perrine Bridge from which base jumpers often leap. Not far away, the spectacular Shoshone Falls, nicknamed the 'Niagara of the West', plunge from a height greater than the famous Canadian falls. The area offers kayaking, hiking and scenic routes along the canyon. A crossroads between Boise and Yellowstone, set amid volcanic landscapes and fertile farmland, Twin Falls is a surprising nature stop in Idaho.

Idaho Falls rises in eastern Idaho, crossed by the Snake River which forms an urban waterfall ringed by a pleasant greenbelt of trails and parks. The most populous city in the region, it is a convenient base toward nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton, as well as the volcanic landscapes of Craters of the Moon. Its lively riverfront and the Mormon temple mirrored in the waters make it a welcoming centre. A crossroads between deserts, mountains and great parks, Idaho Falls blends convenience, nature and the charm of the American West.