We took the slow route from just east of Challis via Morgan Creek Road, Panther Creek Road and the Salmon River road. Once on the Panther Creek Road, we encountered no one. Easy graded gravel road.
Beautiful area. I am looking forward to your next installment. We had planned to visit Copper Basin last fall but were turned back by snow. Snow and backcountry dirt roads don’t mix. I was surprised to see that you encountered crowds there. We didn’t and heard it was an ff the beaten path place.
In the distance you can see Plume Rocks to the left and the Wind River Range to the right of us. The road was getting damp and we didn’t want to risk getting stuck so turned around.
We drove out this single track red dirt road to see Plume Rocks. On the other 3 sides are incised Oregon Trail, California Trail and Mormon Trail all which passed by using Plume Rocks as their guide.
Yes, often we were the only ones there. Quiet, free or cheap and dark skies. We avoid the large campgrounds unless we have no other choices and they are in a good location.
I just completed the photo gallery with descriptions from Washington through Idaho. Wyoming, Montana and homeward bound through Washington will be part 2
On edit, it appears to be going in reverse so just start from page 2. Sorry, I don’t know how to correct...
Bear Lake is a huge lake that straddles the Idaho/Utah border. It was on my bucket list as it is known for its blue color. It is mainly a recreation destination, at least on the northern portion in Idaho.
View of wetlands of the Bear River through the Oneida Narrows. The route in is very scenic through the Narrows. If you are disabled and enjoy fishing, the disabled site has its own fishing dock. Beautiful well maintained federal campground.
We spent the night at the campground here. It was a bit forlorn and shabby but someone had planted German irises which brightened the drab colors. A storm passed through highlighting the mountains and fields.
Bruneau Canyon is a gorge whose opposite rim is 1,300 feet away and the distance from rim to riverbed is 800 feet. It is south of Bruneau and the famous Bruneau sand dunes. We spent the night amongst the stars and quiet. There is a vault toilet.
Estimated at between 10,000 and 12,000 years old, these petroglyphs are carved into glacial boulders or melon boulders. Some may be as young as 400 years old. You can pick up a brochure at the friendly visitors building.