The National Historic Oregon Trail is a significant route in American history that stretches approximately 2,170 miles from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon City, Oregon.

In the 19th century, particularly from the 1840s to the 1860s, the Oregon Trail was one of the main overland migration routes on which hundreds of thousands of American pioneers traveled westward. They sought new opportunities, land under the provisions of the Donation Land Claim Act, and to escape economic hardship in the East.

Travelers faced a grueling journey that could take up to six months. They navigated various terrains, including prairies, mountains (like the Rockies), and deserts, facing challenges like river crossings, diseases, and conflicts with Native American tribes.

The trail facilitated the settlement of the American West, significantly contributing to the expansion of the United States. It led to the establishment of many towns, the spread of American culture westward, and the displacement of Native American populations.

Custer City is a ghost town in Custer County, Idaho, founded in 1879 as a mining town. It was named after General George Armstrong Custer. The town experienced a boom in the early 1880s when gold and silver were discovered, and its population grew to nearly 1,000. However, the mines eventually played out, and by the early 1900s, the town was mostly abandoned. Custer was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with well-preserved buildings such as an old saloon, a jail, and several residences. Visitors can explore the old mines, the cemetery, the surrounding mountains, and the nearby Yankee Fork Gold Dredge. Custer serves as a reminder of Idaho's mining past and how quickly fortunes can change. It is part of the Land of the Yankee Fork Historic Area.

It's a repeat trail for us, but it is a favorite. It has decent views, magnificent wildflowers, interesting trees in some places, and a fun switchback area built for bikes that is also enjoyable to run down. The trail is primarily flat or downhill, with a gradual incline where one exists. It is also well-managed and nearly free of tripping hazards. You may have to share the trail with bikes and other hikers, especially on the section designed for bikes. Enjoy the hike, but pay attention to your surroundings.

A spontaneous trip to the McCall, ID area, allowed us to explore the area above McCall. Our primary objective was to check out Burgdorph Hot Springs and try a new hike or two. Bear Pete Creek Trail led us to a great little hike and a pleasant camping spot we did not know about.

Bear Pete Creek Trail starts at the tail end of the campsite. Although it is marked in AllTrails as only a few miles long, it goes much further. Since we were not in a rush, we hiked beyond its parameters. A creek flows near the trail but is rarely in sight.

Took the family up the Payette River again. We rented canoes from Backwoods Adventures, which made things so much easier. From the nonmotorized boat launch, we slowly paddled up the river and enjoyed the perfect temperature, slight breeze, and meandering river. This time, we saw a pair of bald eagles and a trout swimming under our canoe.

We still explored, but we also went farther upriver than ever. The canoes made it super easy, and in no time, we had passed the bridge and were cruising further up the river.

This is one of our favorite locations in Idaho and one of our favorite activities while visiting McCall. It was a perfect day for it this time, too. I hope you enjoy sharing the adventure with us.