Three Scenic Idaho Byways

Emma and I headed out fairly early today because the plan was to drive three of the scenic byways in Central Idaho.  We ended up doing the entire length of the Peaks to Craters Byway, and good portions of the Salmon River Byway and the Sawtooth Byway.  I have to say that I’m thinking I really got spoiled with my two months in the Yellowstone area.  It’s hard to top that area for scenery and wildlife.  I’m not sure I can ever beat that in the lower 48.  With that said, today was a gorgeous day and the scenery was enjoyable (all 300 miles of it). 
One of our first stops was along the Salmon River.  The drive goes through National Forest and BLM land.  This river got it’s name from all the Chinook and Sock Eye Salmon that have historically migrated up this river, after years in the Pacific Ocean, to spawn.  It was common for them to reach a length of 4’ and weigh 40 lbs.  Of course, then we had to build some dams, and over fish the population, so that by 1994, only one salmon was spotted at this point in the river.  The dam has been taken care of, and the fish have been put on the endangered species list.  This year, locals are very excited because they have seen quite a few salmon.  They travel upstream from the ocean in June and July, and begin spawning here at Indian riffles in late August and September.  I’m happy to hear about the improvement in numbers.  I, however, did not see one fish.  :(

As I headed down the grade into Stanley, Idaho, after following the Salmon River for about 40 some miles, I pulled over to get the header picture of the Sawtooth Mountains.  Of course, the Salmon River and those wonderful Idaho fences helped with the picture composure.  :)
Getting these pics in May or June would have added that snow capped extra.  Timing can be everything.  :)  All of the roads on these three byways are two lane with very good pavement.  I believe the worst grades were only 6%, so all the roads are do-able with big rigs.
The last portion of this circle tour of scenic byways, was spent on US 20, and took us through the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve from a different direction.  Today, we went through the portion that was used as Goodale’s Cutoff in the mid 1800’s by those pioneer folks heading for Oregon.  I just can’t imagine driving a covered wagon over this terrain.  Dang!  Those folks had some Chutzpa!!
The mountains surrounding the monument just grab my attention.  They have such varied colors and textures.  They look smooth and soft, but looks can be deceiving.  This is a very harsh desert environment.
Pictures, of course, don’t do them justice.  So, you’ll just have to come here and see them for yourself.  :)  I did see two big black tailed bucks, a fox, and too many chipmunks today, but none were interested in posing for a portrait.  :(  I think Emma and I will sit outside tonight and see if a hummingbird will be more cooperative…

Thanks for stopping by….talk to you later,  Judy