Idaho On My Mind
Although we are now two states away in Yellowstone National Park (more on that later), I didn’t want to skip over Idaho—something that I imagine happens quite a bit.
Idaho is unassuming. When planning the Western Loop of this trip, destinations in Montana and Wyoming were identified well in advance and reservations secured. Not so, Idaho. I thought our route might pass through there at some point—and I definitely wanted to visit Ketchum and Sun Valley due to an unrequited 70s crush—but it was never a sure thing.
Without ever meaning to, we spent 2 weeks hopscotching across the state. In the process, we probably saw more than folks who lived their whole lives there.
Idaho is a big and diverse place. Sandpoint, at the north end, is just minutes from Canada. The southern end shares a border with Utah. In between, there’s a little bit of everything—mountain lakes, wild rivers, hot springs, snow-capped peaks, high desert and black lava moonscapes.
Driving south from Lewiston, we followed the Salmon River through breathtaking canyon scenery to Boise—a college town boasting a fabulous Saturday market, thriving art scene, navigable river and 25 mile greenbelt bike trail. From Boise we headed into the Sawtooth Mountains and Sun Valley, an historic Hemingway haunt and ski resort town offering excess of most every type imaginable. In stark contrast, Craters of the Moon National Monument, a short drive east, was excessive only in its isolation and primal bleakness.
Yup, two states later I’m still thinking about Idaho. Some places are just like that.
Stay: Modest, 50-year old, semi-developed hot springs like Zim’s, are sprinkled liberally around this region. I’l admit, it took me awhile to get comfortable with the funk factor of these places but eventually I was won over by the chance to soak for hours in warm water. Campsites at Zim’s are no more than open field parking, but inexpensive, conveniently located and boasting spectacular mountain views.
Play: Thanks to Groupon, our hour at Boise Art Glass cost $75 and we walked away with two very fine souvenirs. Every city should have a place like this.
Eat: Goldy's serves the sort of breakfast that leaves you feeling satisfied and a little loggy for the rest of the day. Carb heaven and XXL Mimosas. A great recommendation.