Idaho, 9/18

Wednesday we left Jackson Hole, WY, and headed west along the Snake River into Idaho. 

Travel Tip:  Guys:  Before starting a long car trip, stop by your favorite tat parlor and have the words “Yes, dear” inked on the right side of your head.  When driving, point as needed.

So, what else is in Idaho besides potatoes? 

1}  Idaho Falls

 

Fine-dining Tip:  The best McDonald’s french fries west of Illinois are found in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

2)  Buttes 

Today, arid land and sagebrush surround an ancient volcanic cone.  More than 12,000 years ago, there was more vegetation and water, and lava caves here sheltered hunters who tracked, killed, and ate camels, elephants, and giant bison.  When the climate became drier 8,000 years ago, the camels and elephants headed north.  Native Americans hunted bison here until the 1840s. 

3)  Idaho National Laboratory

In 1951, an experimental breeder reactor here became the first nuclear reactor to generate a usable amount of electricity.  This laboratory covers 900 square miles, and is still testing reactors and reactor programs. 

4)  Craters of the Moon National Monument

Caused by volcanic eruptions 300,000 to 600,000 years ago, these jagged lava outcroppings, gulches, and ravines, coupled with the incessant, howling winds of the Idaho plains are unimaginably desolate.  In the 1960s, astronauts scheduled to walk on the moon trained here. 

5)  Libraries

Nice little library for a mountain town with a population of 1,461.  Unfortunately we did not have time to go in--we were trying to stay ahead of a snowstorm.   (Shoshone is about 50 miles south of Sun Valley.)

Safe-driving Tip: