Exploring Idaho
I have never spent time exploring Idaho, so my daughter and I are going on a 9 day trip to do some exploring. We are planing to go as far south as the "Craters of the Moon" National monument. We will...
Forum Discussion
idaho_camper wrote:
I was born and raised in Idaho, been here my whole life. Grew up in the Idaho Falls area. Went to school up north in Moscow for 5 years. Settled with my family in Boise. I've been ALL over the state. 9 days isn't much time to try to take it all in. But, here's what I would offer for suggestions.
US12 from Lewiston to Lolo is probably my favorite 2-lane road in the state. Around 200 miles of pristine forest running alongside the Clearwater and Lochsa rivers.
From Lolo, turn south and take US93 to Salmon continuing to Challis. Again, beautiful country.
From Challis, continue on US93 to Arco which is not far from Craters of the Moon, which you listed as one of the areas you'd like to see.
From Craters, head west toward Carey, then turn toward Picabo and onto the junction of US75. Head north to Sun Valley, continue up and over Galena Summit and drop down into the Stanley basin. Sawtooths will be on your left, White Clouds on the right. Seriously, this is a stunning view. Stop by Redfish Lake on your way up to Stanley.
From there, head west on US21 to Lowman, and turn in Lowman toward Banks. From Banks, turn north on US55 toward McCall. Spend some time in McCall, maybe drive up Warren Wagon road to Upper Payette Lake (and beyond if you have the time -- Burgdorf Hot Springs is an awesome little rustic establishment). Stop and do some canoeing on the inlet to Payette Lake (already mentioned above). From McCall, drive north up US55 to New Meadows, then US95 that will take you back to Lewiston and you're headed home.
That loop with give you a good taste of Idaho. Feel free to PM me if you'd like some additional details.
From another native I 2ND this plan!!!!
