Ep 36. Idaho

Idaho, known as the "Gem State," is a land of rugged mountains, deep canyons, pristine lakes, and vast deserts. Aerial America takes viewers on a breathtaking journey through the diverse landscapes and rich history of this hidden gem in the American West.

The episode begins in the northern panhandle region of Idaho, where snow-capped mountains and dense forests dominate the landscape. From the air, viewers get a bird's eye view of the Kootenai River, which winds its way through the rugged terrain and provides important habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife. Next, the show explores the city of Coeur d'Alene, a popular tourist destination that boasts stunning lake views and a vibrant downtown scene.

Moving eastward, the episode highlights the beauty of the Idaho wilderness as it showcases the expansive Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Area. The vast area offers countless hiking trails, clear streams, and panoramic vistas that are only accessible by air. The aerial footage shows the deep canyons and jagged peaks that give this area its rugged character.

As the show makes its way to south-central Idaho, the scenery changes dramatically. The high desert of the Snake River Plain dominates this region and viewers are treated to stunning views of the Craters of the Moon National Monument, an otherworldly landscape of rugged lava fields and volcanic formations that were created over thousands of years. The episode also explores the nearby town of Ketchum, a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and Sun Valley Resort, which is regarded as one of the premier ski resorts in the country.

The episode then takes viewers to the agriculture-rich Magic Valley region of Idaho, where the Snake River provides water for a vast network of canals and irrigated fields. From the air, viewers get to see the vast expanse of farmland, including the iconic potato fields that are a staple of Idaho's agriculture industry.

As the show makes its way to southwestern Idaho, the Owyhee Canyonlands comes into view, a remote and rugged landscape that is considered one of the wildest places left in the lower 48 states. The canyonlands are home to a variety of endangered and threatened species, such as the California condor and the sage-grouse, which are under threat from mining and development. Aerial America showcases the stunning beauty of the area's rocky cliffs, deep canyons, and expansive wetlands, while also highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems.

In the final segment of the episode, viewers are taken to the heart of Idaho's capital city, Boise. From the air, viewers can experience the dynamic urban landscape, which has experienced significant growth and development in recent years. The city's famous Boise River Greenbelt, a scenic park that follows the river through the city, is also highlighted along with the iconic Idaho State Capitol building.

Throughout the episode, Aerial America provides a unique and awe-inspiring perspective on the natural beauty, rich history, and dynamic culture of Idaho. From the rugged mountains of the north to the high desert of the south, this diverse state offers something for everyone and this episode brings it all to life in stunning aerial footage.