Visiting Idaho

Idaho with the majestic Sawtooth Mountains outside Boise, the state capital, is a summer outdoor playground. Fishing, rafting and kayaking the Salmon and Snake rivers is a popular pastime. A Rocky Mountain state, Idaho is well known for world class winter resorts. Resorts like Sun Valley, Grand Targhee and Brundage Mountain are wearing their summer hats. Lifts transport mountain bikers to the top of challenging mountain slopes and stunning scenery rewards hikers heading up the trails. Moscow is home to the University of Idaho, the state's first University. Idaho State University in Pocatello and Boise State University round out Idaho's state run universities.

Moscow hosts the 2010 Rendezvous in the Park, a popular summer concert series July 15th through the 18th. Held at Moscow's East City Park concerts feature top local, regional and national entertainers. This year's lineup includes Jen Lowe, Carbon Leaf and the Gourds. Food and drink vendors are at the park so all you need to do is show up ready to enjoy several evenings of outstanding music and fun. The Best Western University Inn in Moscow is an ideal location for visitors to the area. The hotel is near access to the Snake River where it runs through Hells Canyon.

Just east of Boise, Nampa hosts Snake River Days and the Snake River Stampede July 15th through the 24th. The 2010 events promise to be better and more exciting than ever with ten days of fun and exciting events. Community events include a steak fry, buckaroo breakfast, parade and golf tournament, with the stampede rodeo the last five days. All the best of a fun summer family event, this is one of the biggest festivals in Idaho. The Best Western Rama Inn in Meridian and the Best Western Caldwell Inn & Suites in Caldwell are convenient for travelers in the Nampa area. Air travelers may choose one of two Best Western Hotels located near Boise Airport.

Runners can target the end of summer for two challenging events in the Pocatello area. The Idaho State Journal sponsors the 11th Annual Pocatello Marathon September 4th. This 2010 event features the marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, 1.5 miles and a kids .2 mile races. Looks like no one has an excuse not to participate. A terrific family event to kick off the Labor Day Weekend. The Best Western CottonTree Inn is a full service hotel in Pocatello. The complimentary breakfast buffet is a nice way to start the day, and you will love the Bath & Body Works products in the room.

Pocatello will also host the 2010 Mountain Duathlon September 11th. The duathlon features trail runs, mountain biking and off-road events. Individuals and teams are welcome to participate in this challenge. The Best Western CottonTree Inn would certainly welcome anyone participating in both the marathon and duathlon. The hotel features upgraded bedding - it may be the perfect rest stop between events.