Exploring Southwestern Idaho

At this stop we set up camp in Nampa, ID and visit waterfalls, wildlife refuges, nature areas, and a well known greenbelt in the surrounding towns of Marsing, Caldwell, and Boise.

Poor choice for RV Park

Unfortunately, there weren’t many choices for RV parks in the area; and the spot we picked, although great for it’s proximity to what we wanted to see, was very loud. Consisting of mostly long-term residents, it also wasn’t very conducive to our nightly walks around camp. The people were very nice and the park was well run; but we were very happy to be leaving. It was a reminder of why we typically avoid RV parks.

Jump Creek Falls Trail

Our first adventure this stop is to go see the Jump Creek Falls in Marsing. The drive here weaves through idyllic farmland that appears to have been occupied by the same families for generations.

As we arrive, we realize we’re at the top of the canyon with an incredible view over the trailhead and up Jump Creek Canyon toward the waterfall.

After parking, we head up the trail and come across a small cave surrounded by honeysuckle. The scent of which instantly brings back memories from our childhoods. Unfortunately, it doesn’t show up in the picture below, but the reflections of the water dancing on the roof of the cave overhang is very beautiful. At least you can see the colorful lichen on the rocks.

Jump Creek Falls

At the end of the this short trail we find a few families picnicking around the pool at the base of Jump Creek Falls and then the waterfall itself.

We had read that this ~55 foot high, horsetail style waterfall is a very popular place for swimming in the summertime, and as we’re heading back down the trail to the truck, we pass multiple families heading up to do just that.

The Orchard House

On the way back we stop at “The Orchard House” for lunch. Set slightly back from the road with a lovely patio surrounded by flowers and a water feature, situated directly across from one of the local vineyards, it looks like a great place to sit and relax for a lovely meal.

And it is incredible! After a delicious lunch, we decide to sample one of their desert items, as all baked goods are made onsite daily. And, I have to say, they have the best bread pudding I’ve ever eaten.

Chatting with the waitress as we’re settling our bill, we learn we were very lucky to walk in and secure the last table. She said every Friday and Saturday, there’s usually a line outside with a 45 min wait. And in our opinion, it is absolutely worth the wait.

Desert Flat National Wildlife Refuge

Our next adventure is exploring the Desert Flat National Wildlife Refuge.

Visitor Center

After arriving, we stop in at the visitors center to check out the exhibits and speak to the ranger/volunteers. We typically do this to inquire about their favorite trails, and what they would recommend. The volunteer (Kathleen) was very helpful and we had a lovely chat with her. She had us laughing for quite a while.

Observation Hill Trail

Given the temperatures today (mid 90’s), we decide to limit our walking time and head up the Observation Hill Trail. This will give us a great overview of the refuge as well as lead close to the water in some places.

Unfortunately, we didn’t see anything but the promised view. Kathleen did warn us this may be the case given the heat, and she was correct.

Nature Trail

However, just after leaving the visitor center, we did catch sight of the rear end of an animal disappearing into the water close to the nature trail.

So, we decide to take the nature trail down by the lake and approach the visitor center from the other side on the off chance the animal reappears. And much to our surprise… it does.

We see what we think is a badger peeking at us from the brush at the edge of the water. He’s all wet, so he must have just come on shore. And, he was kind enough to sit and let us photograph him. What a face!

At the top of the trail, we head back into the visitor center to show them the pictures and verify our sighting. It is indeed an American Badger, and the ranger says we’re very lucky, as badgers are rarely seen. She says she hasn’t seen one in years; and Kathleen adds that she’s never seen one up close, only running away.

Wilson Springs Nature Area

Next, we head to the Wilson Springs Nature Area in Nampa. The 55 acre park contains 4 ponds; which account for 25 of the 55 acres and the area is teeming with wildlife due to the constant inflow of 54 degree spring water. This means much of the water doesn’t ice over in the winter, making it a popular place for travel weary migratory birds as well as those who choose to become permanent residents.

Wilson Ponds

As we enter the park, we immediately see the spring bubbling up near the walking path. We then head up the trail following along the pond where we encounter quite a bit of wildlife.

Beach’s Pond

As we round the top of the trail Beach’s Pond comes into view. Along the path, we pass several fisherman not having any luck, only to go out on one of the observation platforms where we instantly see exactly what they’re trying to catch.

Anderson Wetlands

Further down the trail we come across Anderson Wetlands, where we see a couple of red winged blackbirds and can hear; but never see, several animals rustling around in the bushes next to the trail.

Although the trail through the park is short, it’s a lovely place to visit and a great place to stretch your legs.

Boise River Greenbelt

Our last adventure in the area is a visit to the Boise River Greenbelt. The pathway is ~25 miles long and goes down both sides of the river. It’s used my many people, is very well kept, and…

Boise Zoo

…yields some very unexpected sightings. Unbeknownst to us, the greenbelt goes by the Boise Zoo where the Giraffe enclosure is located. These guys were more interested in the people on the path than the patrons in the zoo.

Solemn tribute

Shortly after the Zoo we find this incredible statue honoring some Idaho fallen soldiers.

Despite having to keep the air conditioning running overnight to drown out the noise in and near our RV park, we’re glad we came this direction to explore. And most of all, “Thank you, Honey” for taking the time this winter to replace our original, very noisy air conditioner with a new, much quieter, more efficient unit.

Next stop… History & Waterfalls around Hagerman