On a recent Sunday we decided to go on an exploratory drive. We chose the 18 mile Skyline Drive of the Mary Minerva McCrosky State Park in Idaho.
Skyline Drive offers beautiful views of the Palouse, even on a slightly rainy day like the one we had. It is very interesting in that it takes you through a typically western forest to a typically eastern one.
From the website:
“This 5300-acre ridgeline park is dedicated to pioneer women. McCroskey State Park’s highlight is an 18-mile skyline drive through the park on unimproved roads provides spectacular views of the rolling Palouse country and access to 32 miles of multi-purpose trails. Facilities include a group day use shelter, primitive camping areas and picnic areas along the road. The road is not recommended for large RVs and may be too rough for your family car.”
We did the road in our light SUV, and it was fine. Here is a photo of the typical road condition:
It is free. It has campsites, parking, restrooms, and vault toilets (whatever that is!). I think I saw hiking trails, but we did not do any hiking around. It is open all year.
Info:
http://www.visitidaho.org/thingstodo/parks/mccroskey-state-park.aspx
http://www.wildernet.com/pages/area.cfm?areaID=IDSPMC&CU_ID=1
We bookended our drive with some snacks, of course. On the way there we went to Potlatch, Idaho and visited the Wagon Wheel Bar & Grille and Laundromat.
Yes, laundromat. Meaning there are two washers and dryers in the front part of the establishment, next to the pool table and video games (you eat in the rear part). Kind of kooky, but fun, friendly, good burgers, open on Sunday, and they allowed kids.
Potlatch, ID 83855
- Phone: (208) 875-1067
At the end of our journey we went to Garfield and had ice cream and beer at Smokin’ Papas BBQ Cafe. I have been told the BBQ is very good, and I hope to get back to try it. They also have pizza. We were really thankful to find another place open on Sunday.
Smokin’ Papas
(509) 635-1290
216 W California St, Garfield, WA
It was a nice way to spend a rainy Sunday, and we got to see some nooks and crannies, and sweeping vistas, of the lovely Palouse.