Idaho

With an average of only 15.6 people per square mile (the US national average is 79.6 per square mile), it's not surprising that Idaho is a paradise for those of us who like to get away from civilization and who love camping, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and river rafting. The many rivers – Idaho has 3,100 miles (almost 5,000 kilometers) of rivers, which is more than any other state – tumbling from the mountains and through the hills make for spectacular white-water trips.

And then there's skiing! Idaho boasts 17 ski areas for the downhill enthusiast – including the famous Sun Valley in central Idaho – and more than 35 trail networks for the cross-country fan. But, if you're feeling the need for speed, you can also enjoy Idaho's more than 7,200 miles (11,500 kilometers) of snowmobile trails in 29 locations.

Idaho has a population of 1,366,332 and borders on Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Canada. State industries include manufacturing, tourism, forestry, farming, and mining. (A friend used to hike with a geologist from Idaho who always walks with his eyes looking at the ground – not at the mountains and trees – and he once found a large ruby lying on the rocky round there.) Prior to joining the US as the 43rd state in July 3, 1890, Idaho had its own gold rush producing $52 million worth of gold between 1861 and 1866, which was 19% of the total US discovery.

Here are two quick facts: the capital city is Boise – and their state house is heated by underground hot springs (beautiful and energy efficient!). And Idaho is the only state in the US that had its Great Seal designed by a woman.

And who couldn't love a state whose tourism site that once boasted the fun slogan: Idaho. Great Potatoes. Tasty Destinations! (It's now "Adventures in Living" – which is also a good one!)

With such a spectacular landscape, it's no wonder that people were willing to believe the original story that the meaning of the name Idaho was "gem of the mountains." And Idaho's nickname, The Gem State, sure fits.

See our 60 Jobs in Idaho