Idaho

Idaho, the 43rd state, is well loved by outdoor enthusiasts. With hundreds of canyons, gorges and waterfalls and an extensive network of hiking and skiing trails, it's easy to see why. Idaho's capital, Boise, is a charming city of 180,000, but that is as urban as Idaho gets. For the most part, Idaho's population is sparse, making the state a great getaway for nature lovers.

If you know anything about Idaho, you probably know that much of its wide-open space is dedicated to growing potatoes. Idaho's temperate climate produces fantastic spuds that have made Idaho the American potato capital. And Americans do love their potatoes. According to the Idaho Potato Commission, the average American eats over 120 pounds of potatoes each year!

Although potatoes are the state's most important product, most visitors to Idaho are more interested in beautiful mountains and rivers than starchy vegetables. Sun Valley has some of the best skiing in the world, and in summer offers miles of excellent hiking trails. Hells Canyon is the deepest gorge in North America, and provides exciting boat rides and gorgeous views. And no visit to Idaho would be complete without giving fly fishing a try. It may look easy, but catching the elusive trout with a tiny imitation fly is much harder than it looks.