Pioneer Historic Byway Is A Back Road You Didn't Know Existed But Is Perfect For A Scenic Drive In Idaho
By Courtnie Erickson|Published December 03, 2021
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
If you truly want to see all that the Gem State has to offer, hop in your car and travel on an amazing scenic byway in Idaho. There are some fascinating and beautiful drives in Idaho and one of them is located in the southeastern part of the state. The National Pioneer Historic Byway in Idaho will take you to historic sites, remarkable views, geological wonders, and so much more. This truly is one of the best back roads for a scenic drive in Idaho.
The National Pioneer Historic Byway in Idaho is 127 miles that will take you from the Idaho-Utah state line to the Idaho-Wyoming state line.
As you travel north, one of the first historic stops you must make is at the Bear River Massacre Site. While the story is tragic and saddening, it is one that everyone should know.
In 1863, a group of California volunteers from Fort Douglas in Salt Lake City went on a search for the Shoshone people who were responsible for multiple attacks on settlers. Early one morning, these soldiers attacked a winter camp of Native Americans, killing more than 250 men, women, and children. It is considered one of the worst massacres of Native Americans in the west.
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As you continue north, outside of the small and beautiful town of Grace is the Black Canyon Gorge. This hidden gem is a photo-worthy stop and a great place to get out of your car and stretch your legs.
The gorge is comprised of black, solid lava rock. The Bear River flows through the gorge and it is a popular place for experienced kayakers, fishermen, and other outdoorsy people.
Soda Springs is a great place to stop, grab some food, fill up on gas, and explore. Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time to visit the famous Soda Springs Geyser.
This human-made geyser shoots up to 70 feet in the air and is set on a timer that goes off every hour on the hour.
In between all of the fascinating and unique attractions and historical sites along this trail, just enjoy the beautiful scenery. Southeastern Idaho is a remarkable place to explore and truly one of the best scenic drives in Idaho.
As you travel closer to the Idaho-Wyoming state line, stop by the Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Wayan. During the migration season, you can see thousands of birds fly into the area. In fact, you may see as many as 3,000 cranes in the marsh during this time.
To help you catch remarkable views of the wildlife in the area, you can follow a gravel road that will circle you around the marsh. You can also stop by the visitors' center to learn even more about the area and the wildlife you may see during your visit. To learn more about the Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge, click here.
In just over 100 miles, there is so much to see and do on this scenic byway in Idaho. A drive on the National Pioneer Historic Byway may be an all-day adventure, but it is one that is well worth it.
To learn more about the National Pioneer Historic Byway in Idaho, click here.
Have you traveled on this scenic byway before? What were some of your favorite stops and things to do along this road? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
If you are looking for even more back roads in Idaho to explore, here are 10 that you’ll certainly want to add to your bucket list.
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