At Tamarack Resort, the outdoor lifestyle includes golf.
Photo provided by Tamarack Resort.
If the outdoor lifestyle is for you, then Idaho stands out as an attractive state for those seeking Idaho golf communities and the outdoor lifestyle.
The state’s most alluring attribute, of course, is its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, ranging from mountains and forests to rivers and deserts.
Idaho’s Unspoiled Mountains
Begin your tour of Idaho’s immense unspoiled beauty with the Sawtooth Mountains which offer breathtaking peaks.
Lakes such as Lake Coeur d’Alene and the waters of the Snake River, which run through Hells Canyon (the deepest gorge in the United States), provide scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
The diverse topography also provides a beautiful backdrop for Idaho golf communities and courses that few locations can match.
In addition, the wide-ranging landscapes provide an endless menu of outdoor activities.
Idaho’s Abundant Lakes & Rivers
Tamarack Resort sits on the edge of Lake Cascade.
Photo provided by Tamarack Resort.
Idaho offers numerous outdoor activities for adventurers, including hiking, fishing, backpacking, camping, and rock climbing.
The state also features many lakes and rivers popular for boating, kayaking, and rafting.
For winter sports enthusiasts, the Gem State offers world-class ski resorts such as the following top-drawer destinations:
- Tamarack Resort in Donnelly
- Bogus Basin near Boise
- Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg
- Brundage Mountain Resort near McCall
- Kelly Canyon Resort in Ririe
- Schweitzer near Sandpoint
Idaho Golf Communities, Courses & Resorts
Tamarack Resort features a Robert Trent Jones golf course.
Photo provided by Tamarack Resort.
Idaho is home to numerous golf courses, many of which are located within or near picturesque communities and resorts.
Tamarack Resort features the Osprey Meadows golf course, a high respected layout designed by the legnedary Robert Trent Jones that is known for its scenic beauty and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Cascade.
The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course is known for its beautifully shaped course, stunning lakefront holes, and a floating green, according to Google users.
Terrace Lakes Resort in Garden Valley offers a golf course in a mountain setting with spectacular views.
Clear Lake Country Club in Buhl presents a challenging course with fantastic views and tricky greens.
Idaho Quality of Life & Community Focus
Idaho is known for its friendly people and small-town charm.
A strong sense of community and the availability of affordable housing (especially in smaller towns compared to the coastal states) are also appealing factors, although home prices have been rising due to increased demand.
A good example of the state’s recent growth is the city of Boise which is experiencing a rising population that’s bringing in new amenities and building a stronger economy.
Idaho generally has a lower overall tax burden compared to the national average, making it a state with relatively low taxes. See below for more information.
Idaho Is a Low Tax State
Idaho ranks 41st nationally in overall state and local tax burden relative to personal income, and 11th among the 13 western states, according to a study published by the Idaho State Tax Commission.
The state has a flat individual income tax rate of 5.3% as of January 1, 2025, which was reduced from its rate of 5.695%.
Property taxes in Idaho are also relatively low compared to the national average. The average property tax paid annually by homeowners in Idaho is around $1,817, which is almost $1,000 less than the national average.
There is no statewide property tax, only local taxes. And note that Idaho has neither an estate tax nor an inheritance tax, making it a popular choice for seniors with large estates.
