Idaho is a state in the northwestern region of the United States. With an area of 83,569 square miles, Idaho is the 14th largest state in the country. The state is divided into 44 counties, with Ada County being the most populous and Idaho County being the largest in terms of land area. In this essay, we will discuss Idaho County Map and provide detailed information about the top 20 counties in Idaho.
Idaho is located in the western part of the United States, bordered by Montana to the east, Wyoming to the northeast, Utah to the south, Nevada to the southeast, Oregon to the west, and Washington to the northwest. The state’s capital and largest city are Boise, located in Ada County. Idaho’s population is concentrated in the southwestern part of the state, where Boise and several other cities are located.
Idaho is known for its rugged mountains, vast forests, and scenic rivers. The state has many natural attractions, including Yellowstone National Park, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Idaho’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, mining, forestry, and tourism.
Idaho’s 44 counties are divided into seven regions: North Idaho, North Central Idaho, Southwest Idaho, South Central Idaho, Southeast Idaho, Central Idaho, and Eastern Idaho. The counties in each region share common characteristics in terms of geography, climate, and economy.
Top 20 Counties in Idaho:
- Ada County: Ada County is the most populous county in Idaho, with a population of over 480,000. The county seat and largest city is Boise, which is also the state capital. Ada County is located in the southwestern part of the state and is known for its diverse economy, including high-tech industries, agriculture, and tourism.
- Canyon County: Canyon County is located in southwestern Idaho and has a population of over 225,000. The county seat and largest city is Nampa, which is the second-largest city in Idaho. Canyon County is known for its agriculture, including potatoes, sugar beets, and onions.
- Kootenai County: Kootenai County is located in northern Idaho and has a population of over 165,000. The county seat and largest city is Coeur d’Alene, which is a popular tourist destination. Kootenai County is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and mining.
- Twin Falls County: Twin Falls County is located in south-central Idaho and has a population of over 85,000. The county seat and largest city is Twin Falls, which is known for its waterfalls and agricultural production, including potatoes and sugar beets.
- Bonneville County: Bonneville County is located in eastern Idaho and has a population of over 110,000. The county seat and largest city is Idaho Falls, which is a major regional center for healthcare and education. Bonneville County is known for its natural attractions, including Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park.
- Bannock County: Bannock County is located in southeastern Idaho and has a population of over 85,000. The county seat and largest city is Pocatello, which is home to Idaho State University. Bannock County is known for its agriculture, including potatoes, grains, and hay.
- Nez Perce County: Nez Perce County is located in north-central Idaho and has a population of over 40,000. The county seat and largest city is Lewiston, which is located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers. Nez Perce County is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, hunting, and hiking.
- Madison County: Madison County is located in southeastern Idaho and has a population of over 38,000. The county seat and largest city is Rexburg, which is home to Brigham Young University-Idaho. Madison County is known for its agricultural production, including potatoes and wheat.
- Latah County: Latah County is located in north-central Idaho and has a population of over 40,000. The county seat and largest city is Moscow, which is home to the University of Idaho. Latah County is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing and fishing.
- Idaho County: Idaho County is the largest county in Idaho, with a land area of over 8,000 square miles. The county has a population of over 16,000 and is located in north-central Idaho. The county seat is Grangeville, which is known for its mining history and outdoor recreation opportunities, including hunting and fishing.
- Bingham County: Bingham County is located in southeastern Idaho and has a population of over 46,000. The county seat and largest city is Blackfoot, which is known for its potato industry. Bingham County is also home to the Idaho National Laboratory, which is a major employer in the region.
- Elmore County: Elmore County is located in southwestern Idaho and has a population of over 27,000. The county seat and largest city is Mountain Home, which is home to Mountain Home Air Force Base. Elmore County is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including boating, fishing, and camping.
- Cassia County: Cassia County is located in southern Idaho and has a population of over 24,000. The county seat and largest city is Burley, which is known for its agricultural production, including potatoes and sugar beets. Cassia County is also home to the City of Rocks National Reserve, which is a popular destination for rock climbers.
- Jerome County: Jerome County is located in south-central Idaho and has a population of over 25,000. The county seat and largest city is Jerome, which is known for its dairy industry. Jerome County is also home to the Snake River Canyon, which is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Payette County: Payette County is located in southwestern Idaho and has a population of over 24,000. The county seat and largest city is Payette, which is known for its agricultural production, including fruit orchards and vineyards. Payette County is also home to the Payette River, which is a popular destination for whitewater rafting.
- Blaine County: Blaine County is located in central Idaho and has a population of over 23,000. The county seat and largest city is Hailey, which is located near the Sun Valley ski resort. Blaine County is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing and hiking.
- Valley County: Valley County is located in central Idaho and has a population of over 11,000. The county seat and largest city is Cascade, which is located near the Tamarack Resort. Valley County is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing, fishing, and hunting.
- Adams County: Adams County is located in west-central Idaho and has a population of over 4,000. The county seat and largest city is Council, which is located near the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Adams County is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hunting and fishing.
- Custer County: Custer County is located in central Idaho and has a population of over 4,000. The county seat and largest city is Challis, which is located near the Salmon River. Custer County is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, including hunting and fishing.
- Clearwater County: Clearwater County is located in north-central Idaho and has a population of over 8,000. The county seat is Orofino, which is known for its fishing and hunting opportunities. Clearwater County is also home to the Clearwater National Forest, which offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities.
In conclusion, Idaho is a beautiful state with a diverse geography and rich cultural history. The top 20 counties in Idaho all offer unique and exciting experiences, from outdoor recreation to cultural attractions. Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff, there is something for everyone in Idaho. And if you are planning a visit to Idaho, be sure to check out the Idaho county map to explore all that this amazing state has to offer.