Kids & Students
Kids & Students
Discover Idaho in a way that’s fun and easy to explore! From state facts and symbols to maps, guides, and even a peek inside the Capitol, this page is packed with resources for kids, parents, and teachers. Whether you’re a 5th grader learning Idaho history or just curious about who lives here, you’ll find activities, videos, and information to bring the Gem State to life.
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Did you know?
Since more than 80 varieties of gemstones are found within its borders, Idaho’s nickname is “The Gem State.”
“Idaho is home to the largest stand of western white pines in North America.”
Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, deeper than the Grand Canyon. Hells Canyon reaches a depth of 7,993 feet, while the Grand Canyon is 6,093 feet deep.”
“In December of 1936, Sun Valley Ski Resort became the first destination ski resort in the U.S. and home to the world’s first chairlift.”
“ In 1969, NASA Apollo astronauts trained at Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument because of its rugged lava fields that closely resembled the terrain they would encounter on the Moon.”
“Idaho is a hotspot for bird species. The Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area is home to the highest concentration of nesting birds of prey in North America.”
“Called the “Niagra of the West”, Shoshone Falls is actually higher than Niagra Falls and one of the largest natural waterfalls in the U.S. ”
“Boise, the capital of Idaho, is known as “The City of Trees” closely tied to the origin of its name. When French fur trappers first laid eyes on Boise, they shouted “Les Bois!” meaning “the woods” in reference to the abundant trees in the area.”
“Idaho is more than just potatoes, leading the nation in production of barley, organic alfalfa hay, peppermint oil, and food trout.”
“The huckleberry is Idaho’s official state fruit. Huckleberries only grow wild in the cool, mountainous regions of the Pacific Northwest, making them a true treasure in Idaho.”
“Idaho is the leading producer of commercial trout nationwide, accounting for about 70% of total production.”
“Wallace, Idaho is known as the Silver Capital of the World due to its rich mining history.”
“Idaho played a key role in the early development of nuclear energy, with small town Arco becoming the first city in the world powered by atomic energy.”
“The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is recognized as the first gold-tier dark sky reserve in the U.S., offering breathtaking views of the Milky Way and some of the clearest night skies in the country.”
“Idaho has a rich tradition of folk music, with songs and stories passed down through generations reflecting its pioneer, cowboy, and Basque heritage.”
“Idaho’s Capitol Building is the only state capitol in the U.S. that is heated using geothermal water.”
“Idaho has over 3,500 miles of runnable whitewater for rafting and kayaking.”
“The tallest single-structured sand dune in North America is located in Bruneau Dunes State Park.”
Facts & Symbols
Explore Idaho’s official state symbols, from the star garnet to the state bird, along with quick facts that highlight the state’s natural beauty, culture, and traditions.
Maps & Guides
Find your way around the Gem State with easy-to-use maps and travel resources.
Idaho State Capitol
Step inside Idaho’s “people’s house” and see where important decisions are made.
Who Lives in Idaho?
Discover the people who call Idaho home with fun facts and stats about our state’s population.
Children’s Activities & Videos
Explore Idaho through videos, games, and hands-on activities created just for kids and classrooms.
