Itineraries

Idaho Falls—In an area first settled by cattle and sheep ranchers, the founding of Idaho Falls coincided with the gold rush of the 1860s. A ferry across the Snake River, led the way to a log toll bridge, which enabled settlers moving north and west, and prospectors and miners seeking riches in the gold fields of Idaho and ultimately connecting to copper mining in Montana. Homesteaders from Utah brought irrigation know-how, developing a canal system fed by the Snake River. Tens of thousands of acres of desert were turned into green farmland and Idaho Falls became one of the most productive agricultural regions of the United States. The city once again made a name for itself when the Idaho National Laboratory established the National Reactor Testing Station in the region in an isolated location where various kinds of nuclear reactors were tested—52 in all.

EBR-I Atomic Museum—Plan to drive on US 20/26 towards Arco to visit Experimental Breeder Reactor No. 1 (EBR-I). Colorful, interactive displays also tell the story of EBR-I’s sibling, Experimental Breeder Reactor No. 2 (EBR-II), which once powered much of the site and operated with a novel closed fuel cycle. The museum also has two aircraft nuclear propulsion prototypes, a reactor control room, remote handling devices for radioactive materials, radiation detection equipment, and more. You can walk through the museum using the self-guided tour instructions or take a guided tour. U.S. Highway 20/26 between Idaho Falls and Arco, 208-526-0050, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, Daily, 9AM–5PM, Free.

Lost River Museum—Housed in a restored century old church, the Lost River Museum showcases a variety of artifacts including mining tools, ranching equipment, vintage clothing, household utensils, railroad memorabilia, theater memorabilia, local moonshiners, and historical photographs illustrating life in the past. 312 Capital Avenue, Mackay, 208-588-3148, Memorial Day-Sept, Sat-Sun 1PM-5PM, or by Appointment, donations accepted.

Mackay, ID

Picabo, ID or Challis, ID

Challis, ID