Boise, ID

Introduction

This is the first of many reviews, of a week long adventure across Northern Idaho. The trip was conceived by my 84 year old mother who stated; “Son, this is probably the last trip I will ever take, so lets go!”

Our trip began, with the arrival of her younger sister, who flew in from L.A. For forty some years, Dad and the gals took annual trips around Idaho. Since his passing several years ago, it fell on me, to fill the void of driver.

Horseshoe Bend

We left Boise around 10:00AM, headed for Idaho 55 and Horseshoe Bend. The day turned out to be bright and sunny, and by mid-day it was hot. The drive to Horseshoe Bend was uneventful but pleasant. Passing Shadow Hills Golf Course, we saw throngs of golfers as they teed off on their morning rounds.

It wasn‘t long until we reached the peak of the first grade and the old Spring Valley Ranch-which has now been partially turned into an upscale housing community. My dad-a long time Boise builder/developer, was even saddened at the potential loss of such a beautiful area.

We quickly made our way up to the summit then down into Horseshoe Bend. If we hadn’t left so early we would have stopped at one of our favorite haunts-the Riverside, aka the Riverside Restaurant these days.

Although the original owners are gone, the new owners have retained the spirit of the place and fantastic food! For over thirty years or more, it has been one of the best places to have our lunch!

As it was still early in the day, we opted to skip lunch at our favorite place and head on up to Riggins. My mother knew the place well, from dad’s many fishing trips with his best buddy. I can’t even count the times he and his friend spent there, fishing for that elusive Steelhead!

By the time we arrived in town, it was straight up noon. Locals and tourists had all but packed the cafes around town. Even the river was crowded with rafts. Mother quickly made the decision, to eat in McCall. “Dad and I had a place we used to stop at,“ she stated. “And if I recall…I think you kids played pool and drank beer there too!” She said with a grin.

McCall

I hadn’t been to McCall in many years and was surprised by all the new buildings. New construction and heavy equipment were everywhere. If the economy were slowing or if the country was in recession, one would hardly know it by the looks of things!

Turning left at the lake, we drove the mile or so to a quaint old place, by the name of Lardo’s. Grill & Saloon! Although Mom and Dad had been there more recently, it had been many years since I had. The place still had the same look and feel that I recalled,-expect for the plasma TV’s mounted on the walls. The hamburgers and friendly service were still as good as I remembered. If it had been supper time, we would have gone to a rustic but finer establishment by the name of “The Mill” where steak and wine are as good as it gets!

White Bird

We continued up the Salmon river, to the small town of White Bird. I had one opportunity in the past to visit the quaint little town, but not long enough to enjoy it. This trip was the same, as both gals wanted to make it to Lewiston. If you ever get the chance, check out the town, it’s quite a place and loaded with history. 

Since both women vetoed my detour to the town of White Bird, I cajoled them to stop about halfway up the mountain and look over the historical marker that gave insight to the first Nez Perce War in 1877. Following the interpretive signs at the site, one could look down at the sprawling, lush green valley below and see where the actual battles took place.

At the top of the grade, was another historical sign, that gave the history of the White Bird Grade. It was interesting to note that the original road was constructed in 1915 and that it was the only North-South route across Idaho for some sixty years!

To be continued.

Stay tuned for more adventures . . .