Idaho

Canyon Creek Station was an oasis in the middle of the Idaho desert with green grass for the oxen and water for all!

Pioneers loved to leave their mark along the trail to communicate with loved ones and mark their progress. Watch the video to find out how Inscription Rock is different than other registers like Register Cliff and Independence Rock in Wyoming or Register Rock in Idaho. It was worth the climbs to see that these marks were still there!

We take modern conveniences like bridges for granted everyday, and visiting Three Island Crossing at Glenns Ferry, Idaho emphasized how lucky we are today. This crossing at Snake River was another reminder of how difficult and dangerous river crossings were for the pioneers. They had to be resourceful in order to cross difficult rivers such as the Snake River at Three Island Crossing.

An aerial view of Three Island Crossing at Glenns Ferry, Idaho.

It may look like a gravel road that is back home in Missouri, but don’t let the camera fool you! It is like riding through 2 – 3 inches of sand…whew! It has taken a lot of focus and hard work to make the hill climbs out in Idaho.

Checking in at Register Rock in Idaho.

By the time the pioneers had reached Massacre Rocks, they have traveled over 1,200 miles. Crossing the desert of Idaho was one of the most difficult parts of the Oregon Trail for them. The Pedaling Pioneer tells the story from 1862 of the Indian attack which led to the naming of Massacre Rocks.

Still a challenge to ride in the wind in Idaho.

The Pedaling Pioneer had a lot more fun rafting the Snake River than the pioneers would have. Crossing the Snake River was a large obstacle for the pioneers with its swift currents, wide channels, and steep banks.

Click here to learn more about the kind of Snake River crossings the pioneers experienced.

Soda Springs was a stopping point near Fort Hall for the pioneers. The bubbling, naturally carbonated water caused by ancient volcanic activity was used by the pioneers, trappers, traders, and Indians for medicinal and bathing purposes. The Pedaling Pioneer and his wagon train also made the stop to enjoy the hot springs along the Trail.

Ride inside a farm wagon and learn how the different critters on the trail were shod from the exceptional pioneer guides at the Interactive Trail Museum in Montpelier, Idaho. They also have a wonderful website with great information!