Adventures in Idaho

Idaho is known as the gem state because 72 types of gems have been found here. Although it is most famous for the potatoes that grow well in rich volcanic soil. And, less well known, Idaho also is the largest grower of hops for Anheuser Busch.

I finally took some time to explore some areas near Boise in late May. And this time I had the company of my adopted heart daughter.

Every spring, the land around Boise bursts with wildflowers - painting the high desert landscape with vibrant colors of yellow and blue. Sagebrush buttercups, purple and white lupine, arrow leaf balsam root and even bachelor’s buttons. There are many wildflower walks around the city, but some of the trails were closed for a while due to muddy conditions. We went near the end of May and missed some of the splendor of full bloom but enjoyed the beauty and the views nonetheless.

We walked the Military Reserve trail a short way. It was hot and sunny. Great views of Boise.

The next day we drove several hours north to McCall, Idaho. McCall is a cute tourist town with lots of shops, located on the shore of Payette Lake in the Payette National Forest. It was a beautiful drive through mountains and along the Payette River which is filled with rapids.

This state just continues to amaze me with the natural beauty around every corner. I feel so blessed to be here. Driving through winding mountain roads feeds my gypsy soul and wanderlust.

Our next trip was just an hour down the road to Idaho City. It’s a tiny rustic former mining town with a population of 485. As we quickly learned, however, from the lady at the visitor center, the town is basically closed on Tuesdays. Of course, that’s the day we went. She opened the visitor center office for us for a few minutes while we poked around and picked up a town map and a visitor guide. I made a hefty donation to the town jar. Yes, they have a town jar for donations for upkeep. We were given the rundown on places to see and eat, which stores had closed permanently, tours given - but not on Tuesday, stores in town to see - but not on Tuesday. It was a running gag. She did say we could look through the windows at the stores though. Her dog greeted us outside the small shop and as soon as we walked outside she was pulling down the open signs.

So, being that it was Tuesday, the town was pretty deserted. But it allowed us to wander easily through the streets. Idaho City was a boom town that grew exponentially when gold was discovered there in 1862. It was the largest gold found since the California gold rush. The population grew to several thousand. On this Tuesday, it was mostly deserted with rows of historical buildings silently lining the streets.

And of course, I have to include a funny sign I found in the bathroom at the visitor center. After washing my hands, I pressed the button on the hand dryer and nothing happened. Then I noticed the sign. They weren’t kidding.

As always, thanks for reading!

Gypsy Jules