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Historic sites in Island Park, Idaho
Mes
a Falls Scenic Byway
The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway begins where the Teton Scenic Byway reaches its northern end in Ashton, at the junction of U.S. 20 and Idaho 47. From there, the route travels through the town of Warm River toward its main attractions: the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. Mesa Falls is about 30 miles from Sawtelle Mountain Resort.
The Mesa Falls are the only major falls in Idaho not used for irrigation or hydroelectric projects, and as such maintain a look and feel of nature undisturbed. At 110 feet and 85 feet, respectively, the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls offer equally spectacular views in a beautiful forest setting. Both falls can be viewed in full, with the area surrounding the upper waterfall enhanced with paths and viewing areas that make it easily accessible to all. Though only about an hour’s driving time, the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is often a half-day’s journey, with travelers mesmerized by the spectacular display in the midst of a truly back-country setting. In addition, the historic Mesa Falls Lodge has been restored to its original splendor and is now open seasonally for visitor information.

The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway begins where the Teton Scenic Byway reaches its northern end in Ashton, at the junction of U.S. 20 and Idaho 47. From there, the route travels through the town of Warm River toward its main attractions: the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. Mesa Falls is about 30 miles from Sawtelle Mountain Resort.
The Mesa Falls are the only major falls in Idaho not used for irrigation or hydroelectric projects, and as such maintain a look and feel of nature undisturbed. At 110 feet and 85 feet, respectively, the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls offer equally spectacular views in a beautiful forest setting. Both falls can be viewed in full, with the area surrounding the upper waterfall enhanced with paths and viewing areas that make it easily accessible to all. Though only about an hour’s driving time, the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is often a half-day’s journey, with travelers mesmerized by the spectacular display in the midst of a truly back-country setting. In addition, the historic Mesa Falls Lodge has been restored to its original splendor and is now open seasonally for visitor information.
Fort Henry Historic Byway
See the first white settlement marked by the Fort Henry Monument, from which this byway gets its name. A new monument now replaces the old one at the original site. The old monument relocated in an adjoining field can be viewed from the original site. This route trails along BLM land, desert and mountain ranges; where herds of deer and elk, as well as Sharp Tail and Sage Grouse can be seen as you journey along the Red Road.
This byway crosses Camas Creek, connects to County Road A-2 in Clark County at the “Y.” Sand Hill Cranes are early spring visitors in the Camas Meadows. Luscious mountain streams are enticing for fisherman, hikers, bikers and campers. Beautiful fields of wild flowers include seasonal Camas which can be seen throughout the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and flat lands.
The heritage of Clark and Fremont counties is very unique and full of early history of mountain men, Indians, including Camas Meadows Battle Grounds, Nez Perce Trails, miners, stage coach lines and early day ranching.
Lost Gold Trails Loop
The Lost Gold Trails Loop ventures off the Fort Henry Historic Byway at the “Y” Junction onto County Road A-2. The loop then travels southwest along the desert-lava rolling hill terrain where cattle and wild game peacefully share spring and fall months grazing. Crossing the railroad, which originated the town of “Dry Creek,” now Dubois, and traveling west through town over I-15 overpass on Idaho 22, you connect with Old Highway 91. Turn north on Old Highway 91 and head to Spencer, passing near the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station. This early-day Gold Trail closely follows Beaver Creek towards the Montana gold mines. At Spencer the Gold Trail of yesterday becomes the Opal Trails of today and passes several high grade Opal Shops within the original Wood Live Stock town site. Leaving Spencer, the trail heads east to Idmon. This early day Nez Perce Trail has spurs off of its main roadway to private opal mines, Caribou-Targhee Forest fishing and primitive camping areas, and an old cemetery, connecting again to the Fort Henry Historic Byway at the old Idmon town site.
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