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Stationed in Ada County, Meridian is the second-largest city in the state of Idaho. This high-ranked municipality in the United States has boosted its industry and economic growth over the past twenty years. The metropolis acts as a suburb of Boise and is a very safe place for locals and tourists. Families and tourists can enjoy many attractions and outdoor activities in and around the area.

Geography And Climate Of Meridian

Meridian is in the heart of the Treasure Valley in southwestern Idaho, with an elevation of 794 meters. Sixteen kilometers east of the city center is the state capital, Boise. Northeast of Meridian stands the majestic Rocky Mountains that shelter the region of the arctic airflow from Canada. Just over 56 kilometers west is where the Snake River crosses over into the coastal state of Oregon. Two hundred fifty kilometers south lies the Duck Valley Reservation, which intersects the Idaho and Nevada state borders. Enclosed by several reserves and national parks, the zone is known for bird watching, skiing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and relaxing.

Meridian has a dry, desert-like climate with short, sunny summers and long, snowy winters. The warmest temperatures are from June to September, with the hottest month being July, with temperatures of 33ËšC. Rainfall is scarce throughout summers, but as the weather cools into autumn, precipitation accumulates more and turns into snowfall by November. By late fall, temperatures range from -2ËšC to 6ËšC, and the snowfall becomes heavier as winter approaches. December 27th is the snowiest day where over 20 centimeters could cover the landscape in a single day. Despite the cloudy and snowy winter days, Meridian residents will see an average of 211 sunny days each year.

History Of Meridian

Before the arrival of European colonizers, the Shoshone – Bannock tribes called Ada County home. The first settlers lived along the banks of Five Mile Creek, where water would flow throughout the year, despite the cold winter weather. By 1885, the first school had opened to the local people. A post office opened after the Hunter Railroad line entered the township. The village received the name Meridian in 1893, and ten years later, it was home to roughly 200 residents and a business district. It became the center of the dairy industry, with its first dairy farm opening in 1897. The community has celebrated its dairy farming traditions by hosting Dairy Days since 1929.

Population And Economy Of Meridian

Meridian has seen a 33.3% population increase since 2020, making it the fastest-growing city in the Gem State. Home to more than 125,000 people, which has almost doubled from the 2010 census of approximately 75,000 citizens. Many young couples and families consider moving to the city for its key location and low traffic. Home to 40 schools, 36 of which are public and 4 are private schools, and the town spends virtually $6,100 on each student. Meridian’s unemployment rate is below the national average at 3.4% and has a median household income of $63,225. Home appreciation has risen over 39% in the past year, making the average house price $505,000. The top three best companies in the city are Idaho Timber, Scentsy, and Hill Construction.

Attractions In Meridian

Eagle Island State Park

North of the city’s boundary is a 2.2 sq. km park with a swimming beach, green space, picnic areas, and 8 km of trails. On the paths, visitors may go horseback riding, hiking, dog walking, or cycling. Hidden in the trees is a 19-hole disc golf course that will challenge any competitor. In the winter, the snow hill provides runs for tubing and a terrain park for skiers or snowboarders for an extreme experience.

Roaring Springs Water Park

The largest water park in the northwestern United States is an excellent place for anyone to cool down in the summer heat. Thrill-seekers can experience over 20 water attractions, including a giant wave pool. Throughout the park, visitors can rent cabanas to hide under shade and keep their belongings safe. The water park remains open from June to August, depending on the weather.

Kuna Caves

Twenty-seven kilometers south of Meridian lies the mysterious Kuna Caves. The cave was formed by volcanic material and was a lava tube at one point in time. The lava tube connected the cave to the Snake River. Rumor has it that nomadic native tribes used to travel underground via the dried-out lava tubes. Now visitors can climb down a 50-foot ladder to enter the cave while undertaking a lesson about the history of the cave.