Elmore County, Idaho
Elmore County stretches from the Snake River Plain up into the Boise National Forest. Mountain Home is the largest town, centered around an Air Force base, and the community blends military families with longtime local residents.
The western part of the county features high desert landscapes with sagebrush and missile silos. Head northeast, and the terrain rises into the mountains, with greener landscapes appearing quickly.
The South Fork of the Boise River is a fly fisher’s dream. Soldier Mountain offers skiing that remains a local secret, while a string of small reservoirs provides opportunities for boating and fishing. Prairie rattlesnakes are also part of the landscape, so watch your step.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Elmore County |
| County Seat | Mountain Home |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Mountain Home, Glenns Ferry, Pine, and more |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 84, U.S. Route 20, Idaho State Highway 51 |
| FIPS Code | 16-039 |
| Total Area | 3,115 square miles (land: 3,103 sq mi; water: 12 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties | Boise County (North), Ada County (West), Owyhee County (South), Twin Falls County (Southeast), Gooding County (East), Camas County (East), Blaine County (Northeast), Custer County (Northeast) |
| Time Zone | Mountain Time Zone |
| State | Idaho |
| Coordinates | 43.1° N, 115.7° W |
| Etymology | Named after the Ida Elmore mines, locally noted for gold and silver production |
| Major Landmarks | Bruneau Dunes State Park, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Snake River |
| Population | 29,000 |
