Idaho County, Idaho
Idaho County is the biggest county in the state, sitting right in the heart of Idaho. The Nez Perce people called this land home for thousands of years before gold brought waves of settlers in the 1860s and changed the area forever.
Rugged mountains and deep forests cover much of the county. Outdoor lovers flock to places like the Gospel Hump Wilderness for hiking, camping, and exploring. The Salmon River, famously nicknamed the “River of No Return,” cuts through the landscape and adds even more wild scenery.
Grangeville serves as the county seat and is a small town with plenty of character. Elk and deer roam throughout the forests, making the area popular with hunters. Logging is still part of the local landscape, and you’ll often see trucks winding their way along the mountain roads.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Idaho County |
| County Seat | Grangeville |
| Etymology | Named after the state of Idaho. |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Grangeville, Cottonwood, Riggins, Kooskia, and more |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Route 95, Idaho State Highway 13, Idaho State Highway 14 |
| FIPS Code | 16-049 |
| Total Area | 8,477 square miles (land: 8,321 sq mi; water: 156 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties | Clearwater County (North), Missoula County, Montana (Northeast), Ravalli County, Montana (East), Lemhi County (Southeast), Valley County (South), Adams County (Southwest), Wallowa County, Oregon (West), Nez Perce County (Northwest), Lewis County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Mountain Time Zone |
| State | Idaho |
| Coordinates | 45.9° N, 116.1° W |
| Major Landmarks | Salmon River, Hells Canyon, Clearwater National Forest, Nez Perce National Historical Park |
| Population | 16,500 |
