Idaho's wilderness

The first two days we stayed at Steve’s mountain retreat. He got a great place in Cabarten, surrounded by mountains. So we got our snowshoes and explored the close by forest. Than we explored the Ponderosa State Park and did some snowshoeing.

To relax a bit we enjoyed the evening in the Gold Fork Hot Springs where we run into Kelly, who had been also at Steve’s Party. It is just great to hang around in a hot pool with 38 C (100 F) when the outside temperature is -7 C (20 F).

The next day we followed the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway and jumped in some hot springs along the way. Listening to the river, watching the landscape and relaxing in the hot springs is just incredible. Funny wise we met Lawrence in the hot springs who gave us some advices where to camp for the night.

For sure we did some snowshoeing at the Park, following a creek. Afterwards we set camp (with our truck camper) at the Sunbeam Bathhouse. And guess what, we relaxed in the closed by hot springs – with a beer and stars.

Before we left for another snowshoe expedition the next morning we jumped in the hot springs again. Idaho has so many natural hot springs with over 4000 year old rain water coming back to the surface boiling hot. So along some rivers you find this steaming water and find some pools mixing hot and cold water for the perfect natural hot springs.

At the Sawtooth National Recreational Area we did some serious snowshoeing. Off the beaten tracks we inhaled the mind blowing scenery of the Sawtooth Range. After a great hike we jumped back in the hot springs.

Following the Sawtooth Scenic Byway on day 5 we stopped at the Easily Valley to do a little cardio training with the snowshoes. Driving through the famous Sun Valley we treated ourselves in the evening with a nice dinner at a Microbrewery in Hailey. Bruce Willis didn’t show up even if this town is half-owned and lived in from him and his family.

We spent the night at Susan’s Farm which was a beautiful old homestead surrounded by mountain ranges. Without running water and electricity we relaxed in front of the old wood oven. Outside the farm has a double pit toilet with a great view over the mountains.

With a great sunrise and a big owl we said goodbye to this wonderful place and drove towards Boise. Our last night we spent in the Sockeye Microbrewery with good beear and live music.

So it’s time to say goodbye and thank Steve and his friends to make this trip so special. We’ll see you again old friend – somewhere!