We were supposed to be in Arco ID on these days, but at the last minute we found out that the campground we had booked was unavailable due to sewage problems. Therefore we would not get to visit Craters of the Moon National Monument or Experimental Breeder Reactor #1. After a frantic search, David found a place that could take our group in Rigby ID, just north of Idaho Falls. While not the most beautiful of the places we've stayed, at least Yellowstone Lakeside RV Park had hook-ups for these days. On the bright side, there was a pavilion where we could have happy hour and play cards, and there was an amusement park next door (Squealers) which was good for people-watching.
On the way to our new campground, several of us took a side trip to Corinne UT to visit the Golden Spike National Park. The golden spike is the ceremonial 17.6-karat gold final spike driven to join the First Transcontinental Railroad across the United States. We were fortunate to see the two beautiful replica Victorian era locomotives actually move along the track to the ceremonial spot which is now comforted by a polished wooden tie with a plaque.
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Where the golden spike was driven.
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| The meeting of the two sides of the continent |
As usual, our group found things that were fun to do in the area of the campground. One interesting place some of us visited was in Blackfoot ID, about 26 miles to the south: The Idaho Potato Museum, gift shop, and cafe. This is a unique museum which showcases Idaho's Famous Potatoes. Graphics showcasing the history of the potato lead you from the original potato planted in Idaho to the largest potato crisp made by Pringle's. You can enjoy a genuine Idaho baked potato in the cafe or even try some potato ice cream. In the gift shop you are even presented with "Taters for out-of-staters" (Hungry Jack Original Hashbrown Potatoes).
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A boy and his toy.
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Talking potatoes.
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One big potato and Steve's favorite museum.
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Unique ice cream.
In the gift shop they even gave us some "free taters for out-of-staters"!
In the surrounding area, some of us visited a zoo, a drive through bear park, various waterfalls, and of course local eateries.
erik would have loved the trains if he hasn't already seen them. did you try the potato ice cream? it would be cool with bacon
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