The Oregon Trail...in Idaho!
Posted by Kevin Hughes on Thursday, June 23rd, 2011 at 11:17am.
Lewis and Clark's famous Oregon Trail cuts through what is now southern Idaho, traversing perilous river crossings, deserts and mountains. There were also alternate routes, cut-offs and connecting trails which reflected the surrounding terrain. For example, if a valley was 10 miles wide, so was the nearest trail. Should a ford or canyon have proven to be narrow, the trail would also be narrow. There are many landmarks along the Idaho portion of the trail, so if you're considering purchasing Idaho real estate, you'll find this region to be rich with historic value.
- Oregon Trail Marker Number 375 in Idaho is located near Boise in Ada County. Erected by the Idaho Historical Society. It's on Interstate 84, one mile north of Black's Creek Road at a rest stop area between Boise and Mountain Home. It gives directions to other nearby stops and points of interest along the Trail.
- Smith's Trading Post, or Fort Smith in Bear Lake County, Trail Marker #159. Run by Pegleg Smith, this trading post on Bear Lake enjoyed a booming business during the gold rush of 1849. Thousands passed through this prime location, due to the lure of gold fever. In fact, many '49ers reported Pegleg made over $100 per day - a virtual fortune in that day and age.
- Payne's Ferry is located near Hagerman, Idaho - Marker 206. A scow powered by oarsmen allowed Oregon Trail wagons to ford the Snake River at this point between 1852 and 1870.
- The Famous Three Islands Crossing found in Glenns Ferry, Idaho. This small town takes great pride in the wonderful Oregon Trail. Even going so far as to re-inact the river crossing to
display just how difficult it was for those brave early Americans, Glenns Ferry honors them well.
As you're learning, Idaho is surrounded by historical points of interest. So investing in Idaho real estate not only provides you a beautiful place to live, complete with plenty of great outdoor vistas and activities, but the opportunity to easily travel to and learn more about the brave pioneers along the Oregon Trail who helped open up the West so we can still enjoy its many benefits today. Come home to Idaho!
Hughes Real Estate Group- Silvercreek Realty
(208) 571-7145
www.BuyIdahoRealEstate.com
www.StartPackingIdaho.com
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Yes, I knew a lot of this from reading about early American history - but the whole time I was reading this post, I was thinking about how beautiful it must be in your area this time of year! I have a good friend in Twin Falls and love to go there in the early summer! Great photos, too!
Posted on Friday, June 24th, 2011 at 9:49am.