Boise to Casper Road Trip Guide

Can a road trip with friends be complete if it does not include at least one haunted stop along the way? Fortunately, Boise, ID, has one such site that will give you chills and goosebumps. Old Idaho Penitentiary Site is one haunted prison - or at least it is believed to be by many. However, the site represents something much more than ghost sightings and is recognized as a designated historic landmark. The combination is very rare and makes this stop all the more exciting.

The history of this establishment dates back to 1870, 20 years prior to the formation of Idaho as a state. Back then, the penitentiary was called The Territorial Prison and started as a single cell house. As years went by, the cells increased in number and 100 years later, it was a sprawling complex with 15 buildings, five cell blocks, and 600 inmates. There were also two serious riots in the facility due to poor living conditions.

Snake River is beautiful, to say the least, and features a plethora of stunning views. The whole splendid sight makes everyone want to stop and spend some time surrounded by such beauty. Fortunately, there is a 10-mile long pedestrian trail along the south canyon of the river around Twin Falls, also famously known as the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail.

Located near the Magic Valley Mall and the Twin Falls Visitor Center, you can explore the surrounding region of the Snake River Canyon. This is a multi-use trail and you can leave your RV parked nearby and enjoy cycling, running, and walking on the trail and the beautiful scenery all around. Along this trail, you’ll be greeted by several waterfalls such as the Coulee Falls and the Shoshone Falls. Cows, sheep, ponies, and horses can also be seen grazing on the pastures. Evel Knievel Jump Site and Twin Falls Love Lock Fence are some other popular sites on the trail.

If you have been to Salt Lake City several times, it is time you visit its devious little sister city, Ogden, instead. And when you arrive in Ogden, don't miss out on a tour of the Historic 25th Street. This iconic street is also often referred to as Notorious 2-Bit Street and Electric Alley for its debauchery and rebellion-filled past. This street alone lures millions of tourists every year. This place has a past so colorful that numerous books have been written on its old residents and their favorite pastimes. Even today, as you’ll stroll these iconic streets, you’ll feel the palpable energy of the brothels and bootleggers that once used to rule these streets. As of now, the street is a mecca for art lovers, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, and history fanatics. Some of the best attractions on this street include the Municipal Gardens, Ogden Amphitheater, and dozens of painted horses everywhere.

Rock Springs in Wyoming is a beautiful city that preserves the mining and railroad history of the state. The city surprises many road trippers, as they stumble upon this oasis in the midst of a high-desert expanse. Rock Springs has a remarkable history, exciting wildlife, and timeless Western scenery. Whether you’re a history aficionado, a nature lover, or an adventure-seeker, this city will keep you on your toes with its many attractions. All around and within the city are winding rivers, prairies, sand dunes, and canyons. Make sure to visit the remote community in Adobe Town for backpacking through the desert oasis and to enjoy the beautiful Skull Creek Rim.

To enlighten yourself with the history of the city and the animals within, visit the City of Rock Springs Museum and the Natural History Museum. Most importantly, head to The Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scene Loop to look at wild horses of Spanish and American heritage.

Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis is home to Wyoming’s natural hot springs that have been here for thousands of years. The spring was a life source for Native American Indians and later became a much-welcomed oasis for early pioneers and settlers in Wyoming. Today, the State Park and the spring within attracts thousands of visitors every year for its beauty and tons of outdoor activities.

Highlights of the state park include the bathhouse, Star Plunge that boasts two mineral pools and numerous water slides, a swinging bridge across the Bighorn River, and the Teepee Fountain. The latter is a highly photographed and uncanny looking mound of rock, the result of the flow of mineral-filled groundwater. The slides in the State Park are for both kids and the adults and heartily enjoyed by all. You can also explore the park via its many hiking trails and might even come across the resident bison herd.