We were given directions and drove the exact wrong way. But even mistakes when you're wandering end up being amazing blessings as you discover places you never would have found. We started out at Swiftwater RV Park in White Bird, ID and made our way "across the bridge". Our first effort took us out Doumecq Rd to Canyon Rd way up a mountain where the road ends and becomes barely driveable. Our 4-wheel drive truck is a beast and we clawed our way to the top and eventually found the gravel and blacktop again. However the views were spectacular and the adventure was harrowing!
Our second effort took us from Swiftwater RV Park "across the bridge" but this time we stayed straight on Doumecq Rd to Center Canyon Rd and made our way down the Salmon River towards Cooper's Ferry, a lovely recreation area and beach. We crossed the river and made our way up to Cottonwood, ID. As we looked for a place to stop and use the restroom, we realized that we were just in time for their town fair. We wandered the streets, bought cookies from a little girl, and ate our packed lunch. Our pup was especially happy to be there as she got attention from everone that walked by. We stayed for the lawn mower race, which consisted of one participant. He apparently was the only entrty last year too and is now a two time winner. As a side note, Cottonwood, ID is also home to a thoroughly unique bed and breakfast called the Dog Bark Park. If you're not in an RV, this might be one to check out! One more side note! This route takes you through Grangeville, ID where The Rib Guy and Gal serve up some of the best ribs we've had since we wandered through Texas!
For our third attempt to find the elusive area we had been told about, we brought our new friends along who happily told us to "go across the bridge and immediately turn left". This made all the difference! We wandered along Forest Service Rd 493 and gained elevation as we made our way in the evening towards Pittsburg Landing along the Snake River and Hell's Canyon. The timing was perfect as we arrived at the overlook right at sunset! We made our way to the river and got back up to the overlook again just as it turned dark. Next time, we should just put our destination in our GPS... Live and Learn...
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