We just took a trip to Idaho to ride the Hiawatha Trail. The trail spans 15 miles through ten tunnels and seven high steel trestles. The Forest Service transformed part of the railroad grade into this “rail-trail” by removing the tracks.
The big tunnel spans 1.7 miles of cold pitch-black darkness dripping with moisture flanked by 12-inch deep gutters. The only source of light shines from each biker’s headlight to create the illusion of highway cars at night.
After the big tunnel, the route snakes through some of the most beautiful landscape I’ve ever seen. Roch stopped at each interpretive sign to read the history along the trail. The trail has a slight downward grade the whole way down with an optional bus ride back to the top.
Our leisurely ride lasted about three and a half hours and when we reached the bottom we decided that the trek to the top would be too much for one day. I secretly dreaded the ride back up, but I blamed Tara for having to get home early.
I had a great time. The trip left me wondering what other fun adventures lurk just around the corner.
Hiawatha Trail – Tips For Success
1 – Bring a bright head light.
2 – Get a fender.
3 – Bring a raincoat for the big tunnel.
4 – Keep your skin away from the shrubbery.
5 – Stop to read the interpretive signs.
6 – Pee at the ski lodge.
7 – Bring cash.
Find out more about the Hiawatha Trail
Hey, I don't want this picture. What gives?
9 Comments
why the extra “please”?
Your trip sounds wonderful!!
Love,
MOM
I don’t know. I can’t decide what to put for the “leave a comment” verbiage. Maybe I’ll just put that.
You can see the rest of the photos by clicking on that photo above.
I looked at all your photos. you have been very busy!!
for “leave a comment” how about saying ” (Snape says) Reveal your secrets!
Oh man! I want to go! You know that Madison is number one in the nation for bike trails and general bike friendly routes. Come here!!!
I didn’t know that Madison ranks first for cyclists. I heard that Missoula ranks 4th or something. I like riding… but I’m not an athlete like Roch. He’s training for the Iron Man. Crazy huh?
Ooohh… Mom – I like it. Doesn’t Hermione have one that she says when she checks objects for magic?
I will have to check on that one Jenn
Specialis Revelio (Scarpin’s Revelaspell)
Pronunciation: speh-see-AHLIS reh-VEL-ee-oh
Description: Causes an object to show its hidden secrets or magical properties.
Seen/Mentioned: Used by Hermione to find out more of Harry’s Advanced Potion-Making book in Half-Blood Prince. Used by Ernie Macmillan to find out the ingredients of a potion.
Suggested Etymology: Latin specialis meaning “special” and Latin revelo meaning “to unveil”
YES!!!! MOM – YOU ROCK!!!! Thank you! I’m so glad you’re a nerd just like me.
I don’t know if I should use it… does it make sense in this context (for leaving a comment)?
I love your portkey!!!