Hiking
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Rebecca and I celebrated our anniversary in Bonners Ferry, enjoying downtown shops and trying the local cuisine at Kootenai River Brewing. The next day, we explored Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, spotting eagles and deer, and hiked to Myrtle Falls. Our stay at Log Inn was lovely, marking the start of a new tradition.
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With the nights growing dark sooner, I decided to try camping out past Avery, Idaho. Having rode past Red Ives Ranger Station before, I wanted to try getting past there and seeing how things looked. This is a brief overview of what I found as I camped at Spruce Tree Campground.
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While facing challenges due to extreme heat and smoke, I managed to visit the Grand Canyon during my vacation. Despite setbacks, I explored the park and would recommend using the free shuttles for convenience. With diverse wildlife and stunning views, the Grand Canyon is truly a must-see destination, offering various amenities for visitors.
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This weekend we explored two cedar groves in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest. Giant Cedar Grove is handicap accessible and has quite a few large cedars. Perkins Cedar Grove is a little more primitive trail, but it also some nice cedar specimens to view.
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What is better than riding 7 hours to a wonderful campsite that you do not have to share with other campers? Getting a bear claw in the morning from the Polebridge Mercantile.
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The Lower Penstemon Campground in southern Idaho offers scenic mountain views and outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and disc golf. Despite road noise, it’s a great spot for a multi-day trip. Be prepared for high elevation and cool nights. Wildlife sightings are common, including moose and various bird species. Reservations are recommended.
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After a peaceful night at Bayhorse Recreation Area, we visited Bayhorse Ghost Town before journeying to McCall, Idaho. The town, established in the late 1860s, showcased old homes, the Bayhorse Hotel, and the Michael Sargent Store. The area’s historical significance and remains of stone kilns make it a worthwhile side trip.
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We enjoyed a brief visit to the Craters of the Moon National Monument. Surreal landscapes and unexpected heat greeted us. We enjoyed a short walk in the rocks before heading off to cooler climes.
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Overview of time spent in the Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area and camping over night in the campground there.
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Camping at Colgate Campground and a short hike to Weir Creek Hot Spring were on tap this weekend. The camping was great, the hike was nice, and the spring was hot. Good fun for everyone!
