SV Transportation & Lift Tix

Hello,

I%26#39;m driving from Boise Airport to SV and back the 1st week in March. Is it necessary to rent an SUV this time of year?

Are there any avenues to obtain discount lift tickets to Baldy?

SV Transportation %26amp; Lift Tix

The road from Boise to Sun Valley (Highway 20) is kept very clear during the winter, as our roads in the Sun Valley/Ketchum area, so you should be okay without an SUV. If a 4 wheel drive car is available, go with that option, but if not, you%26#39;ll be okay. Before driving up, check out the road conditions on www.511.idaho.gov

There are lots of discounts to be had in March-lots of stay %26amp; ski packages. There is a good list of all the options in town and at the resort at www.visitsunvalley.com/webspecials.

Have a great vacation!

SV Transportation %26amp; Lift Tix

if there is any kind of snow condition, we all drive the ';long way';, which is just a bit further down the freeway, turn towards shoshone and then when you hit 75, turn left. the conditions on 20 can be sketchy at best, after a storm or during one. if you are the slightest worried, go the longer way. it really is only 15 minutes longer.

if there is any kind of snow condition, we all drive the ';long way';, which is just a bit further down the freeway, turn towards shoshone and then when you hit 75, turn left. the conditions on 20 can be sketchy at best, after a storm or during one. if you are the slightest worried, go the longer way. it really is only 15 minutes longer.

Great, thanx for the info!

If you have college aged students with you, there is a lift discount for them. Otherwise, some of the lodging properties are able to package in lift tickets to give you a savings. Check the CVB%26#39;s website has a %26#39;web specials%26#39; page that compiles all of the area%26#39;s packages and deals. www.visitsunvalley.com/webspecials

Best Pack Assisted Trips with an Adventure Travel Company?

We can no longer backpack (I%26#39;m in my 60鈥檚 with a new hip) but we are looking for your favorite trips in the west with an adventure travel company such as Sierra Club, Rei, etc. We would love to carry our day packs while mules, horses or llamas are hauling the heavy gear. There are so many companies with so many itineraries that we thought you could help regarding your favorites. We don鈥檛 want to spend a lot, so we鈥檙e looking for the best 鈥榖ang鈥?for the 鈥榖uck.鈥?Time frame: one to two weeks, this summer. We like hikes up to 10 miles and 2000 ft. elevation gain.

Thank you, Kathy and Elliot

Best Pack Assisted Trips with an Adventure Travel Company?

my friend, david markham, owns adventure outdoors he has llamas and has done this for many years. i don%26#39;t know all the details, so you could PM me and i will give you the phone number.

just looked it up venout.com

Best Pack Assisted Trips with an Adventure Travel Company?

Thanks Charlie. Looks like the assisted pack trips are going to be a bit expensive for us right now. We%26#39;re probably going to simply do some car camping out west and begin saving for a mule/llama trip in later years.

How about renting a US Forest Service look out tower and just doing some day hiking around it? Awesome views in awesome country. We have a number of them here in Clearwater Country in Central Idaho, and better yet, we don%26#39;t have the crowds they have up north and in other areas.

That%26#39;s a great idea; however I believe at least one of us is afraid of heights! I%26#39;m assuming you%26#39;re outside and climbing the tower to get in. Are there any amenities inside the tower?

i would google it. i have always been interested in doing that. sounds kind of cool and i have heard that they are all different.

Kathy and Elliot, the towers, as they are called, are often 50 or more feet off the ground, although, many are sitting right on the ground. Not towers at all. All of them have lights, refridgerators, stoves, heat, most will have water of some sort,etc.. Most you can drive into, a few you will have to hike or ATV in, and fewer still are hike in only. They will always be on a high spot and have an awesome view, and will see much wildlife, deer, elk, etc.. Rental towers have been remodled to be what they are, vacation tower rentals. You can go online and look them up by National Forest, Clearwater N.F. , Nez Perce N.F., etc.

I don%26#39;t know what our budget is, but the Sierra Club has ';supported backpack trips, where you only carry a daypack. This one with llamas is one of the least expensive:

sierraclub.org/outings/鈥?9190A.asp

Thanks for the information. Will have to do it eventually. It%26#39;s too cool to pass up.

Almost perfect, thank you. However, upon reading the description, they are still requiring up to 30 lbs of weight four hours per day. But yes, quite affordable for what you%26#39;re getting. I%26#39;ll ask Kathy and see.

Hot springs near Council, Idaho

Anyone know the current conditions of the trail to the hot springs in Council? Looking to go and camp out and wondering if we need snowshoes to hike in and what kind of camping equipment we may need. Are these hot springs heavily used?

Camping Question

We are thinking about camping somewhere near-ish to Boise this year as part of our vacation. My family used to love camping near Warm Lake, especially at the South Fork of the Salmon River campground. I had heard that that particular campground might be closed permanently and that last summer the area really got hit with the fires. Has anyone who%26#39;s been to the area recently give me an update on the conditions? Thanks!

Camping Question

WriterGirl, I just wanted to let you know that I wasn%26#39;t ignoring your post -- I haven%26#39;t been to Warm Lake for many, many years. Hope somebody can help you!

Pug

Camping Question

We camped at Warm Lake last summer, and could see the fires around the lake and feel the ash dropping at our campsite. I don%26#39;t know about the particular campground you mention, but do know that fires were bad in the immediate area. Depending on the time of year you are coming through, I would recommend Big Trinity (north of Mountain Home past Anderson Ranch Reservoir) for later in the summer, but possible snow through June. Great hiking, fishing, etc. or continue up towards McCall if earlier in the season and camp at one of the smaller lakes above town or right on the main lake (depending on whether you are looking for some solitude, or like the idea of town being right around the corner with possible boating, restaurants, etc.)

I really love camping in the Cascade Donnely McCall area. You can easily find a camping spot that makes you feel like you are a million miles away from everything but still run to the local merc for whatever you need in a quick trip. The mountains and forests are beautiful and the lakes (Cascade and Payette) are very enjoyable. I have not been to warm lake in a few years but it is just a short ';road trip'; to check it out.

Driving from Butte, MT to Idaho Falls, ID

We%26#39;re planning to drive this, but it looks like about 1000 miles, so we need to break it up. Suggestions for hotels along the way would be appreciated. Thank you.

BobK39

Driving from Butte, MT to Idaho Falls, ID

nooo.... it%26#39;s only about 200 miles from Butte, MT to Idaho Falls, ID? The drive will take about 2.5 hours via the freeway.

Driving from Butte, MT to Idaho Falls, ID

Thanks very much. I must have misread my Yahoo Maps.

BobK39

Just out of curiosity, what are you doing in Idaho Falls? Need any hotel or restaurant suggestions for while you%26#39;re there?

looking for a state park

We will be driving up from Phoenix and staying in Yellowstone N.P. at the end of August. Our first night will be at Lee%26#39;s Ferry in AZ, and we are looking for a state park in Idaho for the second night. Don%26#39;t want to spend all day driving, and don%26#39;t want to get in at dark. We are travelling in an Aliner popup camper. Don%26#39;t need electricity or hookups. I%26#39;ve heard you folks have some great state parks and I wonder what you recommend.

looking for a state park

Assuming you%26#39;re coming up I-15, there isn%26#39;t a lot to be recommended along that stretch of road (for some reason, the feds ran the interstates through the nastiest parts of the state). Craters of the Moon national monument is awesome, as is the Redfish Lake area (and the Sawtooths and White Clouds in general). However, I%26#39;d say both are too far out of your way.

looking for a state park

I don%26#39;t want to misguide you. So I%26#39;m giving a link. Please visit that link. It might be helpful for your plan. http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/

When you get to Idaho Falls on I-15, you%26#39;re going to take Hwy 20 North to get to Yellowstone. Try Harriman State Park just north of Warm River (or stay at Warm River, it%26#39;s got a very nice campground - make reservations early, like now).

Have a great trip!

air makeup

Help planning a trip....

Hey All,

I am from PA, but am looking to go on a trip to Coeur d%26#39;Alene for a week sometime this summer. I was thinking of renting a place in the mountains,along the lake, somewhere in the woods and just chilling out with some guys doing the outdoors thing. I was just wondering if this would be possible in Coeur d%26#39;Alene. I didn%26#39;t know if it was swanky or if there is alot to do there as far as fishing, hiking, etc. goes. I am in the initial stages of planning this trip and any help would be appreciated. Any can%26#39;t miss spots, trails, etc. Thanks in advance.

Help planning a trip....

There are lots of rentals during the summer months. Here are a few sites that might help you with that...

vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/…coeur-d-alene

http://www.cdavacation.com/

There%26#39;s a lot to do in Coeur d%26#39;Alene in the summer months, and it definitely isn%26#39;t all ';swanky'; at all. Though the city does have it%26#39;s share of festivals and more ';touristy'; activities, the backbone of the area is the long-standing outdoors traditions and you%26#39;ll find plenty of spots to fish, hike, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

If you want to stay close to, but not IN the city, you might want to look at the Wolf Lodge area, or maybe head over to the west side of the lake to the Rockford, Mica, or Kidd Island bay areas. They%26#39;re close to the lake, very scenic and easy access to the Hwy if you want to take a drive.

Some other very pretty spots are east of Coeur d%26#39;Alene in the Silver Valley. It%26#39;s about a 40 minute drive and the towns are very picturesque (especially Wallace and Kellogg) and there%26#39;s lots of spots to bike and hike.

If you find yourself in the city, Tubbs Hill is the main hiking area and it%26#39;s located conveniently close to the resort, city beach and ';tourist'; areas. Even though you%26#39;re ';in the city';, the hike is very nice and offers fantastic views of the lake as you circle around.

There are a lot of smaller lakes considered to be in the Coeur d%26#39;Alene area, and you might find the seclusion and fishing even more appealing at those lakes. The closest are Hauser, Spirit Lake, Twin lakes, Fernan and Hayden Lake. None of them are as large or as striking as lake Coeur d%26#39;Alene, but they are very appealing.

If you don%26#39;t care at all about being close to the city, and just want to be in the Pacific Northwest and enjoy the Alpine scenery, you might even consider going north 40 minutes or more to Bayview, Sandpoint or even to Priest Lake, which I%26#39;ve heard is one of the prettiest spots in North Idaho.

A few other posters including the other ';local expert'; Dave, enjoy the bike trails and know quite a bit more than I do about the ';outdoorsy'; Coeur d%26#39;Alene, so hopefully they%26#39;ll sign on and give you some great advice.

Help planning a trip....

thanks so much for the quick reply. The thing is, I am not the outdoors type at all. But I want a getaway this summer that will really be a ';getaway'; from the noise and commoition of the Northeast corridor and the big cities here. My ultimate question would be, is it worth going across the country? I found airfare to be surprisingly reasonable for such a long trip.

KirkandMimi gave a very good run down for the area. This is an area which does enjoy the outdoors in the summer and the overall activity level is higher in summer versus winter, but during the week things do quiet down because lots of the summer activity comes from locals off work on the weekend. A rental out of town (Coeur d%26#39; Alene) would be very quiet while in town would be more active but also provide access to the services and events. The biggest plus is the weather, summer highs are usually in the 80%26#39;s with cool nights and low humidity which could be a welcome relief from high temps and high humidity.

%26lt;%26lt;My ultimate question would be, is it worth going across the country? I found airfare to be surprisingly reasonable for such a long trip. %26gt;%26gt;

That%26#39;s a really good question, and probably one that only you know the real answer to.

If you are really just looking for a calm, wooded area so you can just sit and enjoy the peaceful lake, trees, wildlife, I think Coeur d%26#39;Alene would work for you, but so would a lot of places I would guess.

It is a beautiful area, and that natural beauty is combined with a resort atmosphere and lots of activities (renting jet skis, boats, hiking, underground mine tours, shopping, etc.) just in case you do get a little antsy in the woods.

I wish I could give you a better answer...

If you truely want peace and quiet, away from the city think about the Clearwater country. We have the best of the best here, with out the crowds from Coeur d'; Alene and Spokane. Clearwater country shares the largest wilderness system in the US, except for Alaska, with Idaho County to the south. We have some of the nations top cut throat trout fishing and one of the worlds top small mouth bass fisheries. The Snake, Clearwater ( North Fork, South Fork, Middle Fork and main stem), Salmon, Selway, %26amp; Lochsa, all world class rivers, are within 2 hours of Orofino, and hundres of lesser rivers and creeks. We DO NOT have any lakes/ reservoirs surrounded by houses, marinas, resorts, roads, and any other developements. We just have pristine lakes and rivers. We have restored forest fire look outs for rent, many different cabins, unlimited camping. We also have many outfitters that will pack you in by foot, horse, lama, or ATV to remote wall tent camps. Is the Clearwater country worth visiting? Only if your mind and body needs refreshed like only true wilderness can do! If I can help, feel free to e-mail me for ideas/suggestions.

weather in May

Hi, We are planning a trip to Boise in May and wonder if we%26#39;ll be able to hike and go whitewater rafting. Anything we should be prepared for weather wise?

weather in May

almost sure that you cannot raft...the water is TOO high, and most of it hasn%26#39;t melted from the mountains. weatherwise, we always say that only fools predict the weather. it can be 80 to 60, snow and sleet and warm sunshine...wait till you get closer. what brings you to boise...love boise.

weather in May

Well in May the water will be very cold.

Mothers Day weekend there is usually a float down the Middle Fork of the Payette River, which is pretty mild. People start at Tie Creek Campground and paddle down to Crouch. You could ask about that at Idaho River Sports.

Roundtrip and holiday plans... around the westcoast

Hello

I am Monic, 20 years old and I live in Washington and work as a Nanny. I just moved here and I will stay here just for a half year and than I will go back to my home country...

I am a little bit confused about my travel plans and I hope you can help me. I have just 2 weeks holidays and one month to travel and sometimes the weekend off... at least I would have 3 times 2 day off...

I already have been to Colorado (Denver), Ohio, Chicago and Victoria (Canada)...

1) I thought I would go for one week (7days) to an roundtrip in May. I will fly to NY and Manhattan and Brooklyn (2days) than drive with my friends to Nigara Falls (2days), with the bus to Boston (1day), with the bus to Philadelphia (1day), with the bus to W.DC. (1day) and than fly back to Washington...

I was in NY before so I don%26#39;t like to spent so much days there.. About W.D.C. I heard that you need normally more days.. , but I am not so interested on all the history.. so I think it would be fine....

Can you give me some advice what I should visit there on my roundtrip and what I have to see... I love buildings and I love to take picture and I love landscape, parks.. but I am not so interested on museum and history...

2) I really want to visit Florida (may be for 1 week). Than I want really see Californien (San Diego, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Sacramento) incl. some parks at least the famous one Yosemite National Park, Death Valley National Park. Than Arizona with Grand Canyon and some national parks?! May be you can give me some tips there....

(If it works out.. )Than I think Utah is pretty nice with Utah falls and are there not so much nice national parks?! and Salt Lake City....

I was in Denver, but I saw just Downtown and the red rocks.. May be it would be cool to see the Rocky mountains... and is not Messa Verde National Park a famous park in Colorado, too.??!!

I heard Oregon and Idaho is pretty nice, too.. Is it true or is it not so important to see this?!

3) My plans are to spend 1 week in NY... and the other vacation week in Florida...

than I thought for short weekends would it be fine to spend 2 days in San Francisco maybe in march or april...

I thought also short trips on the weekend could be fine for Oregon and Idaho or what do you think?

For my travel month I thought I will fly down to San Francisco and than make a roundtrip through California till San Diego with Arizona, Idaho falls, (Colorado) and all the parks... and perhaps New Mexico.

or I would fly to San Francisco and would go down till San Diego and than to Arizona and than up to Las Vegas, Nationa Parks... Idaho and fly back to Seattle....

I need a lot of advice for my trip and how long do you think it will takes for Los Angels.... Did I forgot something? Are there although some thinks what I have to see near Seattle besides Mount Rainer, Olympic Mountains, Mt. St. Helens, Portland and Astroia, Leavenworth and Downtown Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia and the beach...

I have no clue how I can handle my travel month, because I do not have a car... are there a lot of cheap travel bus like chinatown bus or so? Do you know if there is a good link with the bus or is it better to use the train?!

Thank you for all your help I appreciate this. If you have any questions than please let me know...

Monic

Roundtrip and holiday plans... around the westcoast

Wow! Sounds like a busy but fun trip whichever way you decide to spend it.

If I were you, I%26#39;d post this in the different city forums you%26#39;re thinking of focusing on, and you might get some very specific advise on how to plan your trip.

All of the places you%26#39;re considering are great, but you mention so many places, I wouldn%26#39;t know where to start.

I would spend some time narrowing down your list if I were you by doing some research and the different areas to see what appeals to you the most and then post on different forums for more help.

Good luck!

Roundtrip and holiday plans... around the westcoast

Hey thank you, but how can I put this on a another forum?! I have no plans about this, maybe you can help me...

oh thank you I think I got it by myself.. thxs

With all of this traveling, how are you going to get any nannying in? You list so many trips! You%26#39;re really maximizing your time.

With all of this traveling, how are you going to get any nannying in? You list so many trips! You%26#39;re really maximizing your time.

hiking season

I know that currently the bike and hiking trails are muddy and use is prohibited in some areas. I%26#39;m unfamiliar with this part of the country and don%26#39;t know if mid-May will see the trails mostly thawed and ready for use all day......or......what? I%26#39;m visiting my daughter and we hope to be outside most of the time hiking. Any thoughts?

hiking season

I%26#39;m not sure about way up in the mountains, but I think most trails should be pretty dry by May.

The Race to Robie Creek is in April. Usually the first half mile past Aldape Summit that is in the shade tends to be muddy from some patches of winter snow that are still melting, but that is about 4700 ft elevation.

hiking season

One of the best hiking ares in the state early in the year is the Hells Canyon area. Right now thru May is an excellent time to explore the canyon. It is warmer, drier, and in full spring splendor than most of the rest of the state. When the mountains dry and warm up the canyon is in full summer and to hot for anything except rafting.

What about Lodge at Sandpoint

We are thinking spending a few days in the Northern Idaho area, especially around Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille. Looking for a good B%26amp;B, inn or hotel near the lake. The TA reviews have only one review of the Lodge at Sandpoint. Apparently it is quite new. Does anyone have information about it? Their website is a little sketchy.

What other places would you recommend? Also some suggestions for the %26#39;must sees%26#39; in the area. We will probably travel there sometime late this month or early October.

What about Lodge at Sandpoint

Can%26#39;t comment too much about the Lodge other than to say its location is on the south side of the Lake, not actually in town, so either you walk across the pedestrian bridge into town or drive. There are actually relatively few lodging opportunities on the lake, most of the b%26amp;b%26#39;s, inns and hotel are located in the center area of town. The Edgewater Inn has a great location but reviews on this site don%26#39;t hold up. Sandpoint is separated from some of the lake shore by the railroad that parallels the lake. In the Sandpoint area most activities are outdoor related. Lots of hiking opportunities and water related activities, a drive up to Schweitzer ski area is also worth a trip. Unfortunately you will be here between the main tourist seasons, too early for snow, and summer tourist activities have slowed up. Sandpoint does has some unique shopping opportunities with Hq of Coldwater Creek and Litehouse Foods being located in Sandpoint and they both have retail outlets in town. Its also a 45 minute drive down to Coeur d%26#39; Alene too see what it has to offer. With summer over, traffic in Sandpoint / Coeur d%26#39; Alene area will be much more tolerable. Have a good trip.

What about Lodge at Sandpoint

Hi Kitters:

I think that anyone would enjoy staying at The Lodge at Sandpoint. My husband and I were just there over the Labor Day weekend and had a wonderful time. The rooms are fabulously large and immaculately clean. We took a suite. There was a fireplace in the bedroom and another in the living room. The beds are so comfortable, like the Four Seasons. It is right on the lake. They have a small spa that offers massages. My husband and I each had one and were very happy with them. We rented their bikes for the afternoon and had a great time riding over the Long Bridge and tooling around in the very picturesque town. Of course we had to stop at Starbuck%26#39;s and then wander around in the shops. Sandpoint is a very pedestrian friendly town, by the way.

The Lodge offers a complimentary continental breakfast and there is a restaurant next door that serves delicious dinners. If you are looking for something more modest in the way of accomodations, there is also Sleep%26#39;s Cabins just down the road from the Lodge that have darling little cabins.

Regine

Hi. While I have never stayed at the Lodge, I have always wanted to. Every time we drive past it, I admire the location - right on the south shore of the lake - and I have always thought it looks like such a nice location.

Thanks to all of you. It actually sounds like a pretty good place. Not sure that we are going to get there in October, too many other things going on,but sounds like it would be a neat place to go in the late spring. --Kitters

Has anyone stayed at the Lodge of Sandpoint in the last year? If so, what are your thoughts? Also, is downtown Sandpoint an easy walk?

Do you mean from the Lodge? I%26#39;d say no - it%26#39;s prolly 2 miles or even 3 to downtown from that Lodge! It%26#39;s not uphill or strenuous, but it certainly is a long walk.

Thank you Campinggirl for the info regarding the Lodge at Sandpoint. We definitely need to stay in town, so that we can walk to dinner, as we will be traveling by motorcycle. Any ideas?

No helmet laws in Idaho!!! Woot!

The Inn at Sand Creek is right downtown:

http://www.innatsandcreek.com/

La Quinta is also downtown:

www.lq.com/lq/properties/propertyProfile.do…

Although you have stated you want to be close to downtown, I have to tell you that the Schweitzer Ski Resort has some really, really great lodging deals in the summer time, you might want to check out their website.

Where else are you planning to go on your trip? Where are you coming from? I have done a lot of travelling in the area, much of it on a bike, so I might be able to offer more suggestions for some great rides in the area. Let me know.

- CG

I saw from one of your other forum posts that you are travelling from California, going all the way to Jasper on this trip.

I%26#39;m not sure what your route plans are, but I do have to tell you that it would be well worth your time to travel from Oregon to Idaho via highway 3 from Enterprise, OR to Lewiston, ID. The section of this road that goes through the Rattlesnake Canyon is spectacular! I have a few photos posted from our trip, if you%26#39;re interested, have a look:

members.virtualtourist.com/m/adecc/bd711/

(Look at the things to do tips at the bottom for more photos) And feel free to look at any of my travel pages there that interest you.

I hope that helps.

- CG

Camping Girl,

Thank you so much for all your information. We are traveling from Chico, California to Baker City, Oregon. My husband and I have organized a three day Ducati Group gathering in Baker City. From Baker City we are headed to Lewiston, Sandpoint, on up to Lake Louise, Jasper and then via Clearwater to Kelowna, down through eastern Washington, Central Oregon and home. Approximately a 2 1/2 week trip the end of June.

In Sandpoint we were thinking of staying out of town and up to Selkirk Lodge.

I really enjoyed your travel page and I thank you for sharing.

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Lava Hot Springs- Need to Relax

My husband and I want to take a trip to Lava Hot Springs. We have been there before, but we stayed in campgrounds when our kids were small which was many years ago. We are coming from SLC,Utah.

Where would be a nice but reasonable place to stay, and we would also like to get a massage while there. A few recommendations for restauarants would be nice. Our plans are for mid April for possibly 2 days, Thurs-Fri. I also heard that Soda Springs is alot nicer. We have never been there. Any info. would be greatly appreciated.

I have read some of the postings about Lava Hot Springs Inn and now I%26#39;m nervous about posting this.

Thanks- Need To Relax

air makeup

Sandpoint Very Unfriendly Town

I recently spent a few days in Sandpoint and found it to be a very unfriendly town. My children and I walked the Farmer%26#39;s Market on Saturday and were almost ran over by locals a couple of times (yes I am sure they were locals!) I am very unsure what draws people here to visit, it seems like a very ';elite crowd only'; place to live. They advertise homes with hangars on the lake for millions of dollars and then try to get tourists to come support their local economy and then when the tourists get there, treat them badly and they have horrible accommodations. La Quinta was 149.00 a night, totally dumpy, green carpet in the outdoor hallways, very, very dumpy. What a joke! I won%26#39;t visit Sandpoint again.

Sandpoint Very Unfriendly Town

I%26#39;ve never found it to be unfriendly, though I haven%26#39;t been there in several years. The skiing is pretty good there, and the lake is gorgeous. They do have a history of having some pretty undesireable people in the area, but my understanding is that group moved down to the southeast somewhere.

Sandpoint Very Unfriendly Town

Unfortunately, Idaho has had a long history of wealthy Californians and Washingtonians coming in and buying up real estate (which used to be cheap in Idaho) and building huge houses to ';get away from'; the hustle and bustle of city life. So most of those ';locals'; you saw are probably transplants. I%26#39;m sorry you had a bad experience. I have never noticed Sandpoint being unfriendly... but maybe that%26#39;s because I%26#39;m an Idahoan.

Thank you, you two seem to be friendly, too bad I didn%26#39;t run into you on my trip!

I love Sandpoint. I go there at least once a year. I have always been treated really well, in the shops and restaurants.

I know Sandpoint. It is not unfriendly. The skiing at Schweitzer is world-class and the people are friendly. Sandpoint does tend to be crazy during the summer, but that%26#39;s part of being in a town that lives off of tourism. If you can%26#39;t put up with that, then take your exceedingly high expectations elsewhere.

i am always wondering how a ';first time poster'; finds TA, to tell there story . how does this happen, i really want to know.

hehehe... Charly I have often wondered that very same thing. I wonder if TA shows up in a search for ';places to complain about vacations'; or what...?

Inquiring minds want to know.

i REALLY don%26#39;t give any thought to a ';one time poster'; with a bad review, this is what makes TA hard to figure out for a newby...live and learn...outofstatelover sure has been quiet.

Pet Sitters/Boarding Kennels Near Swan Valley?

We are staying with some friends in Swan Valley the end of June/ 1st of July this year. Between us we have 4 dogs. We are planning on spending three nights in Yellowstone, so I am looking at options for boarding or preferably a pet sitter while we visit Yellowstone. Does anyone have any recomendations? I would feel better with a referral to someone v. picking blindly.

Thanks!

Silverwood..for the brave only?

We are planning our family vacation for summer. Silverwood is on the list, we like rides, but not the ';big, scary for the bravest of the brave, roller coasters';. Their web-site shows a lot of coasters, many appear to be of this type. Is there enough to do without getting scared silly?

Silverwood..for the brave only?

Silverwood is fabulous! You could spend all day in the waterpark alone! There are plenty of ';less thrilling'; rides in the park and even my son, who is not much of a roller coaster fan, ended up riding all but one of the coasters multiple times. My son doesn%26#39;t like roller coasters that go upside down, so he wouldn%26#39;t go on the one roller coaster there at all. (For some reason the name of that one escapes me - it is the roller coaster that was originally at Knotts.) He was scared of Tremors at first, but once his sister talked him into it, they rode it over and over. Tremors goes awfully fast, but that is about the limit to its thrill factor. The other roller coaster is even more timid than that.

I have some pictures from the park on my travel page, you can have a look.

Silverwood..for the brave only?

Doh! It would probably help if I posted the link to the page!

members.virtualtourist.com/m/adecc/bd5bf/6/

The panic plunge was the other ride that the kids loved, but you would never get me on it!

What age are your kids?

Our youngest is the only one with us this trip, she is 13. Hubby and I will go on the rides with her, just not one the ultra scary ones...I was on the upside down coaster at Knotts years ago, and it scared the heck outta me, and I swore I wouldn%26#39;t do that to myself again. Although a few years ago we did the Tower of Terror at Disney, I was really scared then too, but I may be talked into doing it again (shhhh!!).

Thanks for your comments!!

My kids love Silverwood. It is not a park full of super scary stuff, more a small traditional park with some good traditional rollercoasters. We even got my mom and dad on the roller coaster, so it is not too bad. The water park is a lot of fun, too.

You can get discounts at Burger King restaurants in the Washington State in the spring and summer, and on Coke or Pepsi cans (can%26#39;t remember which!).

It is fun to camp at the campground across the highway from Silverwood, as there is an underground passageway (wide and brightly lit) so you can run back and forth during the day for lunch or to take an afternoon siesta.

We took our grandkids to Silverwood about 3 yrs ago.

They were 10 and 12. They had previously been to Disneyland and 6 Flags.

They rode on everything, mostly by themselves. Enjoyed the park, but thought the ride on roller coaster that did the 360潞 loop was way too short.

The 12 yr old was annoyed with her brother because he wouldn%26#39;t go on the high water slides with her, but they had fun in the waterpark too.

It really is a nice park with a variety of rides. And since it%26#39;s the only one in the Pacific Northwest, enjoy!

Weather

Hello everyone : )

When is the best time to go to The Silverwood Theme Park? What is the weather like in the summer?

Thanks

Weather

Hi, my favorite time to go to Silverwood is September because the weather is still nice, about 75 and less people. If you want to go during school vacation time then July or August, because June is often too cold.

Weather

We were there in August, and the crowds were nothing, by other theme park standards. The weather in Idaho is generally great in the summer, hot and dry, and well into the fall.

I vote for late July and early August when you will find high temperatures in the mid to upper 80%26#39;s F with a few days in the 90%26#39;s F and lows in the low to mid 50%26#39;s F with generally sunny, low humidity, days. I wold bring a light jacket in case of rain system / cold front coming through which could produce cooler temperatures.

I would also vote Late July to Late August. I would go before Labor day, as Silverwood%26#39;s huge water park

closes for the season after Labor Day. I would also choose a weekday such as Tuesday or Wednesday because you will find better prices at hotels, and less crowds at the park.

Single Tent camper looking for advice

Hi there!

I am an experienced camper - but only in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. I%26#39;m used to beautiful, wooded campsites, with rivers running through them, awesome hikes, and great white water rafting.

This time, I have the chance to fly into Boise, and drive north, and am looking for a similar area to explore. It does feel like most of the campsites I come across are very small, and out in the wide open (somewhat barren) land.

I like a National Park type of campsite - not a public campsite, and don%26#39;t even need lots of amenities - a bathroom facility would be great!

But - I also am reading a lot about people who just get camping permits, and pitch tents along the river. I%26#39;m interested in knowing about that, but not sure I want to do that.

What areas would you recommend for all of the above? (Oh - I want to go to some great, natural hot springs, too!)

Thanks!

Single Tent camper looking for advice

if you go north from boise and turn right at horseshoe bend, going by the payette river, towards loman...there are lots of wonderful campsites, some right on the river, and plenty of hot springs for 鈥dahohotsprings.com/destinations/鈥ndex.htm -

this is a lovely area

Single Tent camper looking for advice

Thank you so much!

If anyone has any suggestions on specific campsites, I would appreciate it. I like them kind of rustic - but defined, and preferably forest-like, if possible. Thanks again for the area suggestion - i will look into your suggestion!

trust me, camping in idaho, even in the nicest places, is rustic. we are in the mountains, rivers, animals....ha the direction i told you about is rustic, but bathrooms and showers. google one of the areas and check out the place. going all the way over to stanley is a treat. the view of the sawtooth mountains is breathtaking, and then you could go south and come into our town, ketchum and see the old mining town that it is. then you could go a bit south and turn right towards boise and make a loop. don%26#39;t know how much time you have.

THANKS so much, Charlie!

I am planning on flying into Boise, and heading north to Payette, and up towards Hell%26#39;s Canyon, 7 Devils, etc. I definitely want to do some climbing/exploring in the Sawtooth Mountains. I have about 10 days, but while I have a general idea of what I want to do - I don%26#39;t want to commit to anything yet, because I want to be flexible to go where the spirit leads me.

I keep getting very excited, but then very nervous, because I know this is very different from what I am used to. I am a very experienced Smoky Mountain National Park camper, which is covered in green mountain space, lush waterfalls and fauna, and this is about as opposite as it gets. I wanted different, and this is certainly it, but, going outside your comfort zone is a bit of an experience. It%26#39;s helpful having someone to ask questions of - so please stay tuned!

Thanks again, and any time you feel like making a suggestion, I%26#39;m completely open!

Debbi

Hells Canyon and 7 Devils are really scenic areas! I%26#39;m sure you will have a great time.

Sorry, I just read Charly%26#39;s second post - yes, if you can get to Stanley - do it. The roads going in are sooo scenic. Really beautiful area.

debbi, you will love stanley area and the road to get there. let me know if i can help any more. what month/ \carla ie. charley

Day trips from Boise

My wife and I will be in Boise for about a week in early May. We would appreciate any info regarding day trip excursions into the mountains. We are particularly looking for scenic drives into remote areas with mountain and lake views.

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Day trips from Boise

there is a great circle trip that you can take. leaving boise, you go north on highway 95, to Banks. Drive the payette river, watch the early kayakers, and drive the road through Loman, stop at the kirkham hot springs on the way. the road takes you to stanley, usually the coldest spot in the nation!!! all dirt roads, the greatest bakery and lunch spot (i cook for a living and love this place) the stanley bakery...just ask. Get a sandwich to go and head south to Redfish Lake in highway 75. Sit on the porch of the lodge, look out to the wonderful lake, the Sawtooth Mountains in the background. If you want a more secluced lake, save the sandwich (that will be hard!!) and go to the next lake on the drive to Sun valley, Petit Lake. Stop there for the seclulded lake effect. Then you will go up the hill to the Galena lookout...what a view of the Sawtooths. When you go down the hill, look for the small stream that will form on the right hand side, going down. Later when you are in Ketchum, that is the Big Wood River, huge by then. Galena Lodge is a great spot to stop, at the bottom of Galena Summit. It has great history and inside, if it is open, the pictures of the old lodge are on the walls. In the summer we bike up here and in the winter it is used for x country skiing. Head on down to Ketchum, visit my wonderful town, and go south 18 miles to what we call the ';blinking light';. Then turn right on highway 20 and return to Boise. This should take all day, but worth getting up early to do. enjoy

Day trips from Boise

I second Charley%26#39;s suggestion. Some of the best scenery (at least, visible from blacktop) that Idaho has to offer!

Pug

hi check out some of the desert drives in early May the weather is nice and the wild flowers are awesome in certain spots. plus usually have whole area to yourself. pack lunch and just walk and explore. the vastness and barrenness give you a totaly different perspective on life.the sand dunes are a good day trip from boise. but like the rest of the responce%26#39;s you can%26#39;t go wrong going to Stanelyalso check out Stanely lake to me it is the perfect mountain lake many of times i have camped there and awoken to the mountains relection in the lake at sunrise if you can spend the night at stanely there are so many stars visible the sky is so clear you can see satellites going across the sky.

Don%26#39;t miss Snake River Canyon - gorgeous scenery. Another of our favorites isTable Rock with great views of Boise.

Well, digging deep here, we do have the Ice Caves, a natural phenomon (sp) just outside of Shoshone...Not too many other places like that in the world...enjoy

Just bumped up our trip report took similar paths. Just to give you an idea. It is just beautiful.

Going to do Hells Canyon and Coueur d%26#39;Alene this next visit. Have a great trip!

I too will be traveling to Boise but i%26#39;m going in mid-april and plan on following Charley48%26#39;s advice. I plan on staying at a resort/lodge for 4 days after i%26#39;m done in Boise and am looking for advice on where to stay. The two lodges that Charley mentioned will be closed at that time. Does anyone have any suggestions on a place to stay to take in the beauty of the country on a budget. I found a little cabin in Garden Valley, so any info on that would be helpful. I%26#39;m also wondering if I should try to find something closer to Stanley, Galena or Ketchum which looks more mountainous? Well any help would be great.

You should definitely see Table Rock. You can drive there by taking Reserve St to Shaw Mountain Road to Table Rock Rd. If you like to hike, you can go to the Old Idaho Penitentiary and hike to the top. It is about 1½ miles each way with about 900 ft elevation gain. There is no restroom on Table Rock. Watch out for poison ivy.

A day trip that may be interesting is Bruneau Dunes, south of Mountain Home. There is an observatory open Friday and Saturday evenings. Evenings can get chilly. When weather warms up there are mosquitoes. There is a parking fee. Contribution to the observatory is recommended.

tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35397-d27…

tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35397-d27…

you could go up past stanley and try the 100 acres bed and breakfast www.100acrewoodresort.com/ we have had a blast there, paddle boats and all. then back to challis and come to sun valley the ';back way'; over trail creek summit. or just come over to sun valley and experience all we have here, hot springs, bike paths, hiking and the beautiful scenery.

air makeup

Value in Island Park Idaho- 30 Miles to Yellowstone

If your planing to visit Yellowstone National Park this year you will find dollar savings by staying in Island Park, Idaho.

Just 30 miles to the west Entrance of Yellowstone National Park the short drive can save you from $50 to $150 or more per night on a vacation cabin. Just google ';island park idaho vacation cabin rental'; and check them out.

Island Park, Idaho and south eastern Idaho is the main gateway to Yellowstone National Park%26#39;s west entrance. Where spring time brings sighting of grizzlies, trumpter swans, baby bison, moose, pronghorn antelope and elk. Common in this area babies and spring flowers are abundant. On your way to Old Faithful watch for the eagles nest.

A list of area highlights and summer activities for Island Park Idaho can be found at www.grandmascabin.com or the chamber web site at www.islandparkchamber.org

Owyhee Plaza Renovations

Has anyone tried to inspect or stay at Owyhee Plaza since last year%26#39;s supposed renovations? I noticed, based on a review on *gasp* another site that renovation was going on last year, and a subsequent google revealed an Idaho Business Journal article mentioning that all 100 rooms were to be renovated in a 4-month span during summer and autumn 2008.

Me and my GF fly in next weekend for a Saturday night stay. Our little e-mail chain today included me bringing up 5 options downtown, she surprised me with the Owyhee choice. Established and unpretentious, she said. That%26#39;s what I remember about the place from a stay in the 90s.

Have the renovations retained that character?

Would she be right in saying that Modern Hotel (specifically) and Hotel 43 (implied) fail the unpretentious test?

Emerald Creek Garnet Area

Can anyone give me some information on the Emerald Creek Garnet Area?

Emerald Creek Garnet Area

Here is a link to the USFS web site:

fs.fed.us/ipnf/…index.html

Its located near Clarkia, Idaho which is about 90 miles southeast of Spokane, Washington.

Idaho/Spokane shopping for teenage girls

My 17 yo old daughter wants me to take her and her friends to Spokane for a day of shopping. Their main target will be inexpensive, trendy clothes. I%26#39;m trying to promote Couer de Laine or Sandpoint because it%26#39;s less driving for me but it%26#39;s her party.

Where would you experienced shoppers suggest?

Idaho/Spokane shopping for teenage girls

Not a real experienced shopper but I would say that your could stay in Coeur d%26#39; Alene and drive over to the Spokane Valley Mall (largest mall in the Spokane/Coeur d%26#39; Alene corridor) just off of Interstate 90 about 30 minute easy drive east of Coeur d%26#39; Alene.

Idaho/Spokane shopping for teenage girls

Thanks, we%26#39;ll try it.

Heather

Spokane Valley Mall has great shopping. I spent a day there last summer, and couldn%26#39;t believe the bargains!

I love Sandpoint, but there isn%26#39;t much there in the way of trendy shops for teenagers, unfortunately.

Thanks, Spokane Valley Mall was perfect.

best outfitter for middle fork of salmon river????

My hustand and I are arriving in Sun Valley end of July for two weeks and are thinking about taking a 4 or 5 day raftin trip down the middle fork of the Salmon River. We are interested in a good guide but not the most expensive! There are many advertised which makes it confusing.

Also is there is good place to spend the night in Sun Valley when we arrive that is nice but not super $$$?

What other places would you recommend as ';not to miss'; sights or things to do in that 2 week period. We are outdoor people but my husband has lousy knees so we can%26#39;t do long hiking trips!

Thanks.

Roma

best outfitter for middle fork of salmon river????

do you not ;have a place in sv to stay??? and you are in the area for 2 weeks? i would use the middle fork company, they are reputable and do a wonderful trip. ;you could also go to white otter for a day trip out of sunbeam.

i would not miss stanley idaho, danners cabins for sure, redfish lake.

there are lots of wonderful hikes that won%26#39;t hurt the knees. how far can the husband go? we have a fun 2 mile hike, very gentle, to baker lake, or a 4 mile to mill lake, all with streams running along the path.

in sv, there are hot springs, just 8 miles out the dirt road from the warm spring side of the lifts.

take the lift up to the top of the mountain, bring your own picnic, and enjoy the view that we all love.

walk along the river, rent a bike and use our 36 mile (it is straight, as it used to be the railroad) bike path.

there are so many things to do in this area.

best outfitter for middle fork of salmon river????

Thanks so much for the great ideas! Yes, we love to ride bikes but will be flying so can%26#39;t bring ours. That sounds like a great bike trip. I do have a couple of nights reserved in Sun Valley when we arrive but we planned on driving to other areas nearby. We wanted to see the Sawtooth Mountains, etc. Do you have any other good ideas on places to go. I had friends who also Redfish Lake. I will look up info on Danners Cabins. I am open to anyother ideas you have and will follow up on these.

Thanks so much for your time and thoughts!!

Roma

Check out the Sawtooth Mountains and the town of Stanley, Idaho. Both the Middle Fork and Idhao%26#39;s Main Salmon are great extended river trips. Main Salmon trips run through the Frank Church, but have a smaller price tag.

Sun Valley and Sawtooth Range in Mid July

My family and I are excited to visit Sun Valley and Sawtooth Range in mid July. I have a 3 year old, 5 year old, and 7 year old traveling with my wife, and I, and we are looking for fun and adventures in this NW portion of MT. We will be in the area for 3 days and are looking for trip ideas that will enhance our experience. We are staying at the Best Western in town, we want to use our time in the best possible way, and are an adventurous family looking for the best use of our time. I am looking for your input on anything and am looking for detail suggestions on the following areas:

1- best places to visit in the area with my family (rivers, mts, lakes, etc...)

2-best family hikes in the area (be specific)

3-places to eat (unique and family friendly)

4-best places to water river rafting (company to recommend)

5-best scenic horse rides that are family friendly (company name)

6-best places to fish or guide to recommend (what do we need for gear and equipment)

7. unique shops/ museums or historical places of interest

8. places to rent bikes and great places to ride them.

9. any other ideas you can suggest that will help with planning : )

Sun Valley and Sawtooth Range in Mid July

I can%26#39;t respond to all your questions, but here is my input. With the ages of your children, I think a day at Redfish Lake would certainly fill several of your wants. It is the largest lake in the area (60 miles north of Sun Valley) and has beautiful sandy beaches. You can rent paddle boats and canoes. They also have horseback riding up into the Sawtooths. There are many different hikes of varying difficulty from Redfish as well. With a 3-year-old you might prefer to take the shuttle across the lake to pick up the trail to Lily Lake (1 mile round trip), Grand Mogul (2 miles round trip), or the Bench Lakes (7 miles round trip with 1300 ft altitude gain/loss). My ';Adventures in Sawtooth Country'; suggest the first two as most interesting to youngsters.

Another favorite hike of mine is to Fourth of July Lake (3.2 miles round trip/525 feet elevation gain), but to get to the trailhead you must drive a 10-miles gravel road, which you may not be able to do with a rental car.

Other great places for picnics are Alturas, Pettit and Stanley Lake.

Sun Valley and Sawtooth Range in Mid July

if you type your questions in the search box, you will get alot of ideas. Then , when you want to fine tune them, ask. Redfish Lake is always great and very family friendly. enjoy

Charley: I will be in Ketchum with family on a long road trip to Missoula. Looking for a short day hike that doesn%26#39;t require more than 30 - 45 minute drive out of town (we%26#39;ll have driven 11 miles the day before and 11 the day after!). Thinking of a 2-3 hour hike. Any suggestions? From what I understand, my driving limitation to the trail head is an issue.

Appreciate your input!

Google search Stanley chamber of commerce for all the lodging and services in the area. Redfish is great with a family. The Redfish trailhead also has a variety of great trails, try fishhook creek with kids. Check out Sunbeam Hotsprings on hwy 75, good family soak. There is a great rafting company in Lower Stanley, they also have a family friendly cafe next door.

love therockies...this post is from last summer

air makeup

Hotel

Opinion on staying at The Modern. Thanks.

Hotel

It%26#39;s pretty cool, as far as the inside goes. Ipod docks, flat screen TV, updated bathrooms, very... well, modern, inside, they did a great job with renovations. Nice little bar/lounge inside, downstairs, from what I remember, staff was friendly and helpful. Not far from downtown Boise- nightlife and restaurants. A few blocks to walk or super-cheap cabfare. Hope that helps. :)

Hotel

Hey, thanks for the info. I think we will give it a try.

make sure that you go to the red feather to eat. if you go between 4 and 6, the appetizers are half price. asiago calamari, the organic chicken pizza, tenderloin...oh, my and the gasbar martini...

yeah, redfeather has terrific food-- both the appetizers and brunch/breakfast on the weekends with mimosa specials too! :)

If you%26#39;re looking for ideas on restaurants and what%26#39;s near-ish to the Modern, do a google search for Bodo in Boise (that%26#39;s Boise Downtown lingo)or check out downtownboise.org. Our saturday market is also starting up again on 4/18 (goes 9:30-1:30), it%26#39;s fun and laid back too.

have a great trip!

SLC airport to Preston, Idaho

How long is the drive from the Salt Lake City airport to Preston, Idaho? Any siteseeing along the way?

Thanks, Sally

SLC airport to Preston, Idaho

Sally, it%26#39;s about 2 hours. Part of it is freeway, but part will be on state highway 91. Once you%26#39;re on 91, you%26#39;ll have beautiful mountain scenery. The American West Heritage Center is a fun place if you%26#39;re a history buff or have kids along, with interpretations of historic farm and pioneer life. Stop in Logan at the Bluebird Soda Fountain -- they make cherry Cokes the old fashioned way, with cherry syrup.

Have a great trip!

Pug

Yellowstone Bear World

Please don%26#39;t visit this place. We were over in Yellowstone earlier this year, and were hooked into visiting this bear prison whilst we were there, by the enticement of handling and feeding baby bears.

The baby bears are separated from their mothers very early on in their lives, and placed in bare pens with nothing to play with, and nothing to do, but eat and sleep.

Every few hours, tourists like ourselves, pay to feed the babies milk and cake. They make the bears sit to be fed, so that they become controllable by humans. They are fed on cake for the rest of their lives. Only cake.

This makes them fat and extremely docile.

We joined a %26#39;safari%26#39; during the day, where we were driven into the bear park on the back of a high lorry. When we got to the centre of the enclosure, we were encouraged to throw tray loads of cake to the bears, who would sit and beg to be fed. One of them even waved to us.

Bears naturally live on vegetation and the occassional meat meal.

The only saving grace for this place is that it might be the only place you get to have a close encounter with a bear - something I will never forget. They are all captive bred and so know no different.

But does this make it OK?

The plus sides of the park is that they have an excellent petting zoo - lots of room for the animals to excercise and play in a lovely grassy field area. All extremely tame, and these animals appear to be fed healthy, normal food - grains.

They have a great shop with some quality merchandise.

But visiting the centre is supporting the bear mis-treatment, so I would still stand by my advice not to visit.

Apparently, there is another bear sanctuary near to Yellowstone. My sister in law visited it some time ago. It is a place where they put wayward bears from the Yellowstone, after they have been caught eating your lunch, vandalising your car, or even biting someone%26#39;s bum if they get too close. These bears were caged up, and pacing angrily up and down. Wouldn%26#39;t it be better to put them to sleep? They can never be reintroduced to the wild, as they have picked up (what would be to humans) bad habits. They are a very unhappy lot. Needless to say, I didn%26#39;t visit this one.

Yellowstone Bear World

There is a Grizzley and Wolf Discover Center in West Yellowstone.

http://www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org/

Please do not judge a place until you have been there.

Your comment on putting them to sleep seems so odd..

Yellowstone Bear World

Hi Tripjunkie

Thanks very much for the warning. I am going to Yellowstone next year and might have been tempted.

There is a bear sanctuary in Idaho (they save bear cubs, then release them back into to wild) but I don%26#39;t think they are open to visitors. I have written to them to ask.

Keep enjoying your trips!

Cheers

Bournemouthlady

We went to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yelowstone last year. It is not cheap ($9.75 each) but was well worth it as the center is non-profit and the admission if good for 2 days.

My husband has a forest service background in Western Montana and the bears we saw seemed very happy and healthy. They had 2 bears out that were playing and wrestling with each other in a stream that is stocked with fish for them to catch. The 2-acre enclosure looked like a meadow with trees and vegetation. We saw no bears pacing or in a cage. They live in a den building with individual dens.

They swap out bears after they have been out for a certain period of time so the bears that are out can get a break from the crowds. Before they release the new bears, they hide different foods in the enclosure for the bears to find.

Your comments about the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center are completely false. You have obviously never visited the not-for-profit facility or you wouldn%26#39;t have such a negative attitude. For everyone%26#39;s information, the facility is home to 8 grizzly bears who were once permitted to live in the wild, but not anymore because humans were either feeding them and they became ';problem bears'; or their mother%26#39;s were killed. Of the 8 grizzlies, 6 of them came to the center at 6 months old to a year. They were not allowed to be reintroduced into the wild due to restrictions or their inability to survive on their own. They were orphaned at such a young age that they didn%26#39;t have any survival skills. Therefore, they came to live at the Discovery Center. I know from personal experience (I worked there for several years and have since moved on) that every bear living at the Discovery Center is provided with the best living situation possible. Yes, there is an occasional bear who demonstrates restless behavior (i.e. pacing), but this is few and far between. When this behavior is exhibited the highly trained animal staff does everything possible to make the habit and their enrichment more interesting. If you were to visit the Discovery Center on a ';normal'; day, you would witness grizzlies interacting with each other by wrestling or foraging for food (the animal staff hides their food to keep intact their natural instincts to search for food). If you visit the center on a hot summer day in the middle of the afternoon, the bears will probably be sleeping, wouldn%26#39;t you???? This is natural bear behavior. Grizzlies are most active during the morning an evening when the temperature is cooler. This is the same for the wolves, who have a completely different rescue story. Their is a naturalist on site at all times to answer the visitors questions and provided them with very important information about the bears and wolves in Yellowstone. In addition, their is a great museum featuring wonderful information about not only grizzly bears, but other species of bears as well. In essence, every individual who visits the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center will be provided with a 2 day consecutive pass, which will give them access to numerous children programs, education films, staff presentations which includes a live birds of prey show, and other fun activities. Believe me, my opinion in not bias simply because I worked at the center. In fact, I did not seek employment at the center until I visited the facility with my family during one of our wonderful trips to Yellowstone. I fell in love with center prior to working there and I would recommend anyone who is planning a vacation to Yellowstone to make time to visit the Grizzly Discovery Center. Believe me, if you take full advantage of all or even some of the opportunities that the facility provides you with, you won%26#39;t be disappointed.

Well I have seen bear in Yellowstone many times in the past. More recently in Yosemite, Kings Canyon %26amp; an occasional quick glimpse in the Trinity Alps I have no desire to see any Tamed.

Boise hotels/motels

Visiting our daughter around July 1. Our first visit to Boise, staying five days. She lives on North 25th Street. Any suggestions ? Don%26#39;t need luxury, but don%26#39;t want a dump. A fifty-something couple. Thanks in advance.

Harold from SC

Boise hotels/motels

go to priceline and make your own deal...go for a 2 1/2 star hotel...those are the double tree parkcenter or the springhill suites..we go all the time and i put in $37...last time they up graded me to the red lion..i use it all the time.

Suggest a road trip for us

We are currently in Fountain Hills, AZ and want to take a more scenic route home to WA. We only have about 3 driving days to get home but we would like to stop at the Grand Canyon for a few views. We are traveling with a dog so cannot spend the night at the Canyon lodges. We would like to go up through Utah and Idaho, is there time to see anything on the way? We usually travel about 8-10 hrs a day.

Suggest a road trip for us

How to see a lot and make good time?

From Salt Lake City, you could take I-80 to Wells, NV, and then U.S. 93 up through Jackpot, NV and Twin Falls, ID. It%26#39;s a little longer than taking I-15 and I-84 via Burley. You%26#39;ll get some good views from the south of Great Salt Lake, and you%26#39;ll pass through the Bonneville salt flats. Beware of speed traps in West Wendover.

South of Twin Falls you can go a few miles east to see Shoshone Falls. On the way to I-84 you%26#39;ll pass over Perrine Bridge.

Suggest a road trip for us

Thanks very much, that sounds interesting!

This is definitely the best time of the year to see Shoshone Falls, and I%26#39;ve attached a link to a story on it earlier this week. Called the ';Niagara of the West,'; it plunges 212 feet into the Snake River Canyon. If you do end up in Twin Falls overnight, the best local place for breakfast is the Buffalo. It looks like a hole in the wall, but it is fabulous!

magicvalley.com/articles/鈥?59985.txt

Thanks, I had never heard of Shoshone Falls until now. Looks beautiful!

There are so many places to see between Arizona and Washington, but unfortunately, with only 3 days to travel, you are going to be limited to what%26#39;s close to the freeway. Hope you have great weather and see something cool along the way!

Best Route from Boise to Grand Tetons with a Travel Trailer?

Not sure how this msg got under Island Park? I don%26#39;t think I did it on purpose or that is best place, so will repost under Idaho. Hopefully!!!

Will be heading from Boise to Grand Tetons in early June and was wondering best route to go for scenic drive while pulling travel trailer. Will probably spend the night somewhere near Arco and try to see Crators of the Moon area unless someone has better idea. Will be driving from whereever we stop to Colter Bay the next day. Lots of roads from Pocatello or Idaho Falls to Jackson--any preferences pulling a trailer? Thanks for help.

JQ

Best Route from Boise to Grand Tetons with a Travel Trailer?

it doesnt%26#39; matter where in the idaho posts that you post, it is so small and hardly used, anyone will see it. idaho is a beautiful state, as you will see, but no one knows about it. my friends ask how ';omaha'; is...that is always the joke, omaho, idaho...all the same

air makeup

Happy Hours in Sun Valley?

My husband %26amp; I are planning a trip out to Sun Valley this summer %26amp; love to go check out the happy hours at local restaurans (we%26#39;re both teachers = broke!). Can anyone let me know the best happy hour places in the Sun Valley/Ketchum/Hailey area? So far I can only find one at Whiskey Jacques. Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks!

Happy Hours in Sun Valley?

keep in contact closer to your arrival. this town is in need of some uplifting and who knows...there were some great 2 for 1 dinners in early winter and maybe more when ;you are here. papa hemis, a small place, always has something going on. When do you get here?

Happy Hours in Sun Valley?

We won%26#39;t arrive until mid-July, which I%26#39;m guessing by then things will have changed. I just wasn%26#39;t sure if there were some ';standards'; that the locals went to on a regular basis.

things are changing rapidly here, as we are trying to get more excitement in the city. by july, there will new happy hours ect

i will let you know.

Trail Creek Cabin, hear the Sun Valley Resort typically offers a happy hour-and its a beautiful location with lots of flowers, along a stream, etc...

The Cellar Pub in downtown Ketchum has happy hour as well. Whiskey Jacques that you mentioned, is currently being rebuilt after being burned down last fall...hope it will be open when you are here so you can check it out! Have a great trip and enjoy checking out all the great restaurants we have.

Mothers day brunch

Will be in town for mothers day, We use to live in boise and always went to the Red lion riverside for brunch. But that was 10 years ago. Any suggestions???

Mothers day brunch

That%26#39;s a hard one. There are so many yummy restaurants. Depending on what you like and how much you want to spend, I have a couple of suggestions:

Cottonwood Grill. Downtown Boise by BSU. They have an outdoor patio that looks onto the river and greenbelt plus the food is great. Traditional great food.

Goldy%26#39;s. Downtown by the Egyptian Theater. They pretty much specialize in breakfast and brunch food. They are continually voted Best of Boise but might not be able to accomodate a large group as their space is tiny.

Square. Downtown also by the Egyptian Theater. This place is different and super good. They have all different kinds of crepes: sweet, savory and dessert. Plus they have a great appetizer with different cheeses and fruits.

Moon%26#39;s Kitchen and Diner. Very low key and casual. typical old time diner with all the food you would expect. They are famous for their shakes as well. Located on Bannock downtown.

If you want other suggestions, try going to BoiseWeekly.com and check out the restaurant guide. They always do the Best of Boise polls and have great reviews.

Good Luck!

Mothers day brunch

Below are all great ideas for brunch, but an excelent day event is Sawtooth Winery%26#39;s Annual Mother%26#39;s Day Wine Tasting. This year the entrance fee dropped to only $10.00 which includes a glass and tasting of a variety of Idaho wineries.

We went out last year and the year before brought a blanket, listen to the live music and hung out. We all combined families and it was more like a big group outing, great way to spend the day.

So it%26#39;s not a brunch idea but it%26#39;s defiantly a to do after brunch.

Mother%26#39;s Day has always been a full day at most restaurants. Early booking will be mandatory. Barbacoa is a good So. American stop. Cottonwood Grill wil be packed almost anytime. Cafe Vicino, across from the Co-Op would be my first choice. Very fine cooking my last two dinners. Great chefs and always a nice time.

Best Route from Boise to Grand Tetons with a Travel Trailer?

Will be heading from Boise to Grand Tetons in early June and was wondering best route to go for scenic drive while pulling travel trailer. Will probably spend the night somewhere near Arco and try to see Crators of the Moon area unless someone has better idea. Will be driving from whereever we stop to Colter Bay the next day. Lots of roads from Pocatello or Idaho Falls to Jackson--any preferences pulling a trailer? Thanks for help.

JQ

Best Route from Boise to Grand Tetons with a Travel Trailer?

pulling a trailer over teton pass would be extremely hard, as it is steep, really steep. you can go south a bit from swan valley and go around to jackson, it is by a lake (forget the name) and through alpine.

see if there is a place to camp near or on site of craters of the moon, as arco isn%26#39;t the place to camp. we have always heard the people are green, it is the first city to be lit by atomic power...i hold my breath from arco, to idaho falls. after arco, you go through the inel, the nucular power plants...eeekkk.

from idaho falls to swan valley is so beautiful, gentle ups and downs, with passing lanes. from there to jackson is easy. enjoy

Best Route from Boise to Grand Tetons with a Travel Trailer?

Thanks Charlie,

I don%26#39;t see Teton Pass yet or know which hwy it is on or whether I have a choice? As for route to take, are you talking about Hwy 26 past Palisades Resivoir to HWYs 89 and 191 into Jackson? If so, Hwy 26 is okay?

If we camp one night around Craters, I will have to hold my breath until morning, huh?

JQ

craters is far enough away, the air is good!!ha yes , your route around the reso is good, and THE only other way.

Craters is OK, nothing compared to the Sawtooth Valley. The most scenic route, without doubt, would be Boise to Banks through the Sawtooths/Stanley and over to Arco. You get to follow the Payette River and Salmon River of No Return past some amazing mountains. I have pulled a trailer over Teton pass, its not that bad, not to mention gorgeous.

We have been thru the Sawtooths,I75, I93 on way to Glacier several years ago, without a trailer.

We have also stayed one night and looked around Crater many years ago on our way to Yellowstone.

We just want to make sure we can get into Colter Bay before its too late in the evening. So it looks like we will stick with this plan unless we hear about something better.

Thanks for the help. See you in Boise(Nampa) on May 27th.

JQ

lovetherockies,

we don%26#39;t know how large their trailer is . i go over about once a month to JH and i get nervous going down the pass each time. i am a mountain woman, but the pass still gets me.

Hi Charley,

My s-i-l has lived in Nampa for 35 years or more, so we have been up there a few times. Saw a little of the country around there and Silver City. Also came thru there to Glacier one time and to Yellowstone twice. Hopefully, we will get up that direction more now that my wife is retiring. I%26#39;m ready to go now!!!

Looks like you like to hang out on a couple of other threads? Significance? My son has a time share at Poipu Beach which we got to use a couple of years ago plus a week up at Prinville.

JQ

Best route from Twin Falls to Jackson, Wy

We will spend the night in Twin Falls before continuing on the Jackson, Wy. Would it be best to exit at Pocetella and go to Soda Springs, Henry and then Jackson or should we go on to Idaho Falls and exit their. We want the most scenic way.

Best route from Twin Falls to Jackson, Wy

definitely go through swan valley. you will go through victor, then up the pass. this is some beautiful country.

Best route from Twin Falls to Jackson, Wy

I agree... love Swan Valley! You might be interested in sampling a square ice cream cone at the Rainey Creek Country Store there. Very unique! (That means exiting at Idaho Falls, by the way.)

Sights to see above Salmon, Idaho?

Our rafting trip ends in Salmon. What kinds of fun attractions, hiking, etc. is there for a couple of days north of Salmon?

Thanks

Roma

Sights to see above Salmon, Idaho?

The only ';attraction '; is the Church, and endless miles of hiking. The Selway country, you could drop into the Magruder/Paradise area from Darby Mt.. The Lochsa/Great Burn country. These areas make up the largest hunk of wild country in the lower 48. The best of the best.

Sights to see above Salmon, Idaho?

Roma - I would highly recommend Bannock State Park - a little less than 2 hours NE of Salmon for at least a stop. It is a ghost town but very well preserved - not restored. You can visit the buildings, including the jail and gallows area. Really worth the visit.

Have fun.

bed and breakfast inns in Sun Vallley/ketchum

Does any one have information about the River Street Inn in Ketchum or the Idaho Country Inn? The Knob Hill inn looks fantastic but a bit pricey. We really do want to stay at a wonderful place with marvelous linens to feel warm and cozy after a day of skiing and a place that offers a great breakfast. Any feedback would be appreciated.

bed and breakfast inns in Sun Vallley/ketchum

i know where all of those b and b are located, but have only been in river street and knob hill. i didn%26#39;t even know that the ici still existed. tried the websites, but no avail. knob hill just has a small type breakfast, and i know that the river street inn, USED to have great breakfasts. knob hill is on the highway, and the others are on less busier streets.

would have no idea about the linens, i have stayed at wonderful hotels, and the linens weren%26#39;t anything to write home about.

I know what you mean, but without websites, can%26#39;t tell.

have you thought about sun valley lodge...very romantic, views to die for, and a resturant downstairs...ice skating, bowling...all kinds of warm pools. and they give you lift tickets in the room price

bed and breakfast inns in Sun Vallley/ketchum

Hey Charlie. Thanks for all your feedback. I have narrowed it down to the Knob Hill Inn or the Sun Valley Lodge. Knob Hill is much pricer but their one package includes 2 dinners at their restaurant. Could not find much feed back except for one person who said it was very good.

I love the look of the Knob Hill but the Lodge seems to have a better apres ski ambience plus not on a main street. My only concern about the lodge is that the place looks old and outdated, typical hotel room covers and bathroom is not top notch.

Would you rec the River Street inn over these 2 places?

Any feed back would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks A.

ONe of the reasons that dinner is included in the price, is, i feel, that the restaurant is so high priced, and that the owners also own it, that they are using it for attraction. I worked there for a few days, yes, the food was great, but new cook. i don%26#39;t hear anyone going there, but i am a bit out of the loop. it is on the main street, a bit north. Maybe the linens are better there than the SVL, but the charm of the lodge is the winner in my book.

There are many more amenities at SV (and i am not a fan of the Sv Co.). The lobby is very cool, looking right outside to the skating rink. There is a great bar, the Duchin Room (we have called it the Wrinkle Room forever), with live music, a decent restuarant for breakfast, 2 hot pools, spa services, a fun bowling alley . I am not much of a bowler, but when the grand kids come, we hit that place first. it has ';bumpers'; so the balls never go into the alley. The ambience of the lodge can%26#39;t be beat and the sunday brunch, is one to write home about. A piano player, view of the rink and the mountain. Have you ever read anything about the history of SV??? The lodge was built in %26#39;36 and is made to look like wood, actually it is concrete. The halls are lined with thousands of pictures of the movie stars (and other important people, who made this place what it is.The Railroad used to come up here and the lodge would send the sleight, and cover the people with furs...rent Sun Valley Seranade for fun.

My family stays at the lodge and never complains, unusual.

the rooms are smallish, but you are paying for the killer charm.

There is the SV mall, just a few shops of higher class, and candy store, ect.

The KHI has a VERY small place to sit and drink the owners wine (eeekkk)and a very small pool.

Thanks Charley. You have been a great help. I think we will stay at the Lodge. It certainly does have the charm and history. We%26#39;ll save quite a bit with their march madness special and since we have to meet our son and daughter in law in Snowbasin, Utah (they live inSLC, but can%26#39;t get away til the weekend) we%26#39;ll have more $ to spend and hopefully treat them. Thanks. Arlynn

If you can rec. any great rest. in SV, Ketchum or Hailey, that would be great. Arlynn.

Hi Charley....another quick question. Would you rec. the lodge vs the inn? Looks like the inn has much new upgraded bathrooms, but of course we won%26#39;t have the grandeur of the Lodge. Also, do you know of any condo that you would recommended over the lodge? thanks for your time and trouble. arlynn

rbaby, i am going to send you a PM, so check it out.

Today (April 27 %26#39;09) I received the following information from the Sun Valley Ketchum Chamber and Visitors Bureau:

';The River Street Inn is no longer in operation. They are now individual condos with individual owners. The property management company ResortQuest does manage several of those units and most of them are available of rent. Their number is 208-726-5601 or online at www.resortquestsunvalley.com.';

Tom

Durango, Colorado

dorango tom,

read the post, they already decided to stay at the lodge...

opps, and they came during ski season.

air makeup

Advice for August fishing/camping, please..

Hello all.

I am trying to plan a trip in August to Idaho. I would really love to find a great campground that is on a river for the husband to fish in. We had originally thought about Henry%26#39;s Fork area in the east, but I am leaning towards central Idaho, possibly the East Fork of the salmon? The pictures I%26#39;ve seen from this area are amazing.

Does anyone know of a great campground with good scenery and good fishing? Thanks so much...

Advice for August fishing/camping, please..

Tell me some more about what you want to see\do. What kind of camp ground, what do you need? RVing, pick up camper, tent? Wild fish or stocked fish? What will you be driving? Let me know and I will give you some ideas.

Advice for August fishing/camping, please..

Thanks for your response! We will be probably be tent camping, possibly bringing a pop-up but it hasn%26#39;nt been decided yet. I am more interested in the scenery/view and my husband just wants to fish. He doesn%26#39;t care if they are stocked or wild. Here in Missouri the trout rivers are stocked, so wild might be a good change for him. I%26#39;ve noticed that the majority of this area is National Forest and the campgrounds don%26#39;t have showers. A place with a shower, or one nearby, would be great. Thanks for any help!

have you ever heard about silver creek, near picabo idaho??it is supposed to be one of the best places to fish in the world...that is what i hear. and you are close to the sun valley area and could drive north , fishing all the way through idahos wonderful wilderness

Have you looked into camping near Stanley? You would have the option of Red Fish Lake (absolutely gorgeous) or Stanley Lake (also great). The Salmon river runs through and your husband could fish the river there or hire an outfitter. Also, Salmon, ID is a great place, not as sure about the camping there but I%26#39;m sure there are plenty of places. Also a little town called Mackay has access to the Big Lost River - fishing, a campground at the resevoir and amazing mountain views. Have a great time.

Thanks, that area looks great!

There are hundreds of camp spots along the salmon River both upstream of Stanley and downstream to wards Sunbeam. Check out Stanley Idaho at www.stanleycc.org. There are also a number of fishing outfitters based in Stanley. For walk and wade trips check out Sawtooth Fishing Guides. For float fishing on the Salmnon river take a look at Salmon river Anglers. Make sure and check out the hostprings in the area!

moab to couer d alene

We are in the prlim stages of planning our trip. Our initial plan is to fly to alberquerque and then drive onward to santa fe, taos, durango and moab. My son would love to get to couer d alene. How far of a drive would it be? could we stop at a midway point over night? is it too much to do? we plan to travel for 15-17 days. Any advice is helpful so I can get started on my itinerary. Thanks!

moab to couer d alene

That%26#39;s a pretty long drive -- maybe 20 hours give or take, but you could stop in Salt Lake City, which is about halfway. It%26#39;s a beautiful drive through Utah. You could also go through Denver, and then through Wyoming, but I haven%26#39;t done that drive. It sounds pretty though.

I hope you%26#39;re planning on doing your drive this spring or summer. That drive is a little tougher in the winter months.

Sounds like a fun trip you%26#39;re planning.

moab to couer d alene

thanks for the reply. We are planning to go in July. If my husband thinks that is too much driving, me may plan something around coeur d alene and glacier national park. My son really wants to go to cda. Could you recommend other places of interest in that area as well?

If you visit Idaho you must see the Sawtooth Mountains near Stanley. Also check out Ketchum and McCall, great mountain resort towns.

I will look into those areas. Thanks. How many days do you think we need to do Glacier,Coeur d%26#39; Alene, Ketchum and McCall?

To do Glacier, Coeur d%26#39; Alene, Ketchum and McCall, you might want to start in Boise, which is what I am doing this summer (actually a week in central/northern Idaho and Glacier National Park and then looping down for a week to Yellowstone/Tetons and southern Idaho.) I would plan a minimum of 3 days in the Glacier area, two in the Sawtooth/Sun Valley/Ketchum area, and one in the McCall area, plus a couple days to drive between stops. Have fun planning!

P.S. I hate to disagree with the previous poster, but Salt Lake City is only 4 hours from Moab. It is not halfway to Coeur d%26#39;Alene!

Moab is indeed close to Salt Lake. I was using Salt Lake as a halfway between Alberquerque or Santa Fe (approximately). I should have read the original post more closely.

I would definitely plan a unique trip to glacier and Coeur d%26#39;Alene separately, like others have suggested. The trip you%26#39;re doing this year sounds really nice, and your son will be happy to know Coeur d%26#39;Alene will still be here next year. I would spend 2 days in and around Coeur d%26#39;Alene, for the hiking, boating/lake activities, historical sites etc. Longer if you were planning to go to Silverwood the theme park. I haven%26#39;t had the chance to go to Glacier yet, but I%26#39;ve heard its beautiful and you%26#39;ll need 3-5 days for exploring that. Then it%26#39;s not so far to Yellowstone, and southern Idaho, you should be able to do everything in 15-17 days, with stops in between.

Thanks all for the recommendations. They are most helpful. Now we just have to decide which area to explore: NM and Utah or Idaho/Glacier. Will be back when we decide with more questions I%26#39;m sure! Thanks again.

It%26#39;s a hard decision. The three places I never tire of and keep returning to are Bryce National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Sawtooth Mountains. There is so much to see in both of your choices. Good luck, and wherever you decide to go, I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll love it!

Idaho suggestions

I am interested in exploring Idaho in early Sept. I will be coming from Glacier NP and have approximately 6 days to explore before leaving from Salt Lake City. What would a recommended Idaho itinerary be? I enjoy unique natural features/ scenery, off-beat, interesting, friendly towns and hiking. I don%26#39;t mind going off the beaten path for any of these things. Thanks for any suggestions.

Idaho suggestions

A white water rafting trip on the Salmon river or a jet-boat excursion through Hells Canyon are worthwhile.

Northern Idaho is close to Glacier, and is very beautiful- especially around the north lakes (Coeur D%26#39;Alene, Pendoreille, Priest River, ect.)

Idaho suggestions

A nice itinerary from Glacier to Salt Lake would be to take US93 from Kalispell thorugh Missoula and onto Salmon, Idaho; beautiful mountain scenery through the Bitterroot Valley (Missoula to the Idaho state line) and onto the Salmon River in Idaho. From Salmon I would continue to Challis, Idaho where I would take State Highway 75 to Stanley, Idaho in the middle of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area which has some of the best mountain scenery and hiking not in a National Park in the west. From Stanley continue on through Sun Valley to connect with Interstate 84 at Twin Falls, Idaho and onto Salt Lake. You could break the trip up by staying at Hamilton, Mt or Salmon, Id, or Stanley, Id.

i would suggest to come down through salmon, stanley and sun valley. great off beat places, and interesting history and lots of friendly folks. there are hot springs all over that area...google them. stanley is a great old town, still with dirt roads, at the headlands of the best hiking in the world. google danners cabins and redfish lake..

then of course, ketchum (the real town, not SV)...and then down to twin to slc...any other suggestions???enjoy

I would strongly suggest a boat trip up the Hells Canyon from Lewiston, especially the overnight mail run. There are several boat companies that give tours.

Heading down to Twin Falls, there is the nice view of/from Perrine Bridge. There is parking at the north end, and there is a pedestrian lane on the bridge. Just south of town is the road to Shoshone Falls. Right now is a great time to see it. By September there won%26#39;t be much water going over it.

From Twin Falls you could take U.S. 93 south through Jackpot and Wells, NV. Then I-80 into SLC. This will take you along the Bonneville salt flats. The last time that I drove that section of I-80, there was not much enforceability of speed limits along the salt flat. Not that I recommend speeding. I also don%26#39;t know if they have new devices there. However, they did have speed traps in West Wendover, as people who get into a speeding mindset across the salt flats often speed there too and get caught. You can gamble the rest of your money away in Jackpot, Wells, and West Wendover.

Another possibility if you are heading south from Sun Valley is to see Craters of the Moon National Monument. Past that on U.S. 20 is Arco and the Idaho National Laboratory. I haven%26#39;t been past Arco on this road, and I don%26#39;t know what if any tours are available. On the way to SLC you can gamble the rest of your money away at the Indian casino in Pocatello.

Redfish is beautiful, don%26#39;t miss it.

Hit up the hot springs, but remember they are pack in-pack out (take everything out with you that you bring in, i.e. trash)

I am also thinking about a visit to the place within the next few months. While looking for an interesting adventure trip in Idaho, I stumbled upon this interesting trip to Snake River in Idaho. The trip boasts of whitewater rafting opportunities and adventure excursions in and around Snake River, which seems quite fascinating. What do you think about it?

Check it out here: ekoventure.com/trips/united_states-idaho-hel…

Trip looks great! Do you know Idaho is known as the the Whitewater State. Whuichever Idaho river you choose, you will have a great experience. More miles of wilderness rivers that any state. Make sure and look into

1. Idaho%26#39;s Salmon River of No Return, great family trip

2. Middle Fork of the Salmon. Amazing, better for adults

3. Hells Canyon (I think thei is the trip you are looking at). Good for all ages depending on time of year

4. The Selway Epic, but big rapids

good luck and have fun