Idaho is known for being the land of potatoes, but in all honesty, while potatoes are delicious, that characterization is doing the Gem State a disservice. Who would have thought that a state known for spuds would be home to countless waterfalls, rare fossils, tons of geothermal hot springs, rich history, and roadside kitsch? Idaho's Thousand Springs Scenic Byway makes the most of all the features that set the state apart. And yes, it's still worth it to end the trip at the Idaho Potato Museum... because Idahoans really do grow excellent potatoes.
Alpine, Wyoming, United States
via East 3900 North Road & Addison Avenue West & North 950 East & US Route 30 & Proctor Street
Start at Three Island Crossing State Park, dedicated to the history of one of America's oldest road trip routes: The Oregon Trail. This was where pioneers emigrating to the West Coast had to cross the mighty Snake River, one of the biggest obstacles on the journey. Three Island Crossing was one of a few risky options that many pioneers chose to take, and not all were successful. You can also see wagon ruts worn into the ground by the wheels of the pioneers' Conestogas, alongside replica wagons. The park also has a great Oregon Trail History and Education Center, which interprets the past through the lens of the Shoshone and early settlers who left their marks here. The park is a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
59700 East Historic Columbia River Highway, Cascade Locks, United States
East Historic Columbia River Highway, Cascade Locks, United States
53000 East Historic Columbia River Highway, Corbett, United States
Beaverton, Oregon, United States
Oregon, United States
Central Point, Oregon, United States
via Piers Lane & Cabrillo Highway
Alpine, Wyoming, United States
From the unexpected to the obvious, an Idaho road trip along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway and beyond won't disappoint. The unique and memorable landscape hides all kinds of natural beauty, from hot springs to waterfalls. Add in a pinch of Oregon Trail history and a dash of potato kitsch, and you've got a perfectly Idaho adventure that you won't soon forget.
Banner Photo Credit: Shutterstock
