Mashed Potatoes Day: Savoring Idaho’s Creamy Spuds with Homemade Recipes on October 18

When it comes to mashed potatoes, few places have a deeper connection to this beloved dish than Idaho. Known as the “Gem State,” Idaho’s rich agricultural heritage is closely tied to its world-renowned potatoes. On October 18, Mashed Potatoes Day, celebrated with extra enthusiasm in Idaho, we pay tribute to the humble spud and the exceptional mashed potatoes that the state produces.

Idaho: The Potato Capital

Idaho’s commitment to potato cultivation is unparalleled. The state’s ideal climate, volcanic soil, and dedicated farmers have transformed it into a potato mecca. With nearly 300,000 acres of land dedicated to potato farming, it’s no surprise that Idaho is the country’s leading potato producer.

The Perfect Mashed Potatoes

In Idaho, creating the perfect mashed potatoes is not just a culinary endeavor; it’s a point of pride. The state’s potatoes are celebrated for their consistent quality and flavor. To achieve the perfect mashed potato, Idahoans rely on locally grown russet potatoes, known for their high starch content and low moisture. This unique combination ensures a creamy, fluffy result every time.

Mashed Potato Traditions

Idahoans have their own mashed potato traditions. Some households use local ingredients like Idahoan butter and dairy products to enhance the flavor. Mashed potatoes are often served at family gatherings, holiday feasts, and community events. The state’s history and culture are intertwined with the potato, making it a vital part of everyday life.

Local Variations

While classic mashed potatoes are always a hit in Idaho, you’ll also find unique regional variations that showcase the state’s culinary creativity. The “Baked Potato Bowl” is a popular Idahoan twist, where mashed potatoes take center stage as a base for all your favorite baked potato toppings, from cheese and bacon to chives and sour cream.

Mashed Potatoes and More

In Idaho, mashed potatoes are a versatile companion to various dishes. They pair perfectly with Idaho’s famous steak, are served alongside fresh trout from local rivers, and add a comforting touch to hearty stews. They’re a versatile side dish that amplifies the flavors of many Idahoan meals.

A Classic Mashed Potato Recipe

No celebration of Mashed Potatoes Day in Idaho would be complete without a delicious recipe. Here’s a classic mashed potato recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1/2 cup of Idahoan butter

• 1/2 cup of warm milk

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the potato chunks in a large pot of salted water until they’re tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

3. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a ricer for a smooth texture.

4. Add the warm milk and butter, then continue to mash until the potatoes are creamy and well combined with the butter and milk. Add more milk if needed.

5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

6. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade mashed potatoes!

Mashed Potatoes Day in Idaho

On October 18, Mashed Potatoes Day, Idahoans come together to celebrate this culinary icon. Local home cooks take this day as an opportunity to showcase their mashed potato creations, from classic and loaded to innovative variations. The festivities often include live music, potato-themed games, and even mashed potato sculpting contests.

Conclusion

Mashed Potatoes Day in Idaho is a joyous celebration of the state’s deep-rooted love for potatoes and the creamy delight they bring to the table. In Idaho, mashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a symbol of pride, community, and culinary excellence. So, as you savor your mashed potatoes on this special day, remember the Gem State, where the love for spuds knows no bounds. Happy Mashed Potatoes Day, Idaho-style, on October 18, and don’t forget to try out some of the fantastic mashed potato recipes inspired by the state’s culinary heritage!

Celebrate National Pancake Day on September 26th

Celebrate National Pancake Day on September 26th

Flipping for Fun: Celebrating National Pancake Day in the Idaho Wilderness

National Pancake Day is just around the corner on September 26th, and what better way to celebrate than by whisking up a batch of delicious pancakes in the heart of nature? If you're lucky enough to be vacationing in a cozy cabin in the forests near Yellowstone, whether it's during the sunny days of summer or the snowy wonderland of winter in Island Park, Idaho, here's how to make the most of this delightful day. Come see the magic!

Summer Escape to Island Park:

Summer in Island Park is like a dream come true for nature enthusiasts. The forests are alive with vibrant greenery, and Yellowstone's treasures beckon just around the corner. Imagine stepping out onto your cabin's porch, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature as you prepare to celebrate National Pancake Day.

The Pancake Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• Fresh summer berries (optional, for topping)

• Maple syrup

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

2. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. It's okay to have a few lumps.

4. Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it.

5. Pour 1/4 cup portions of batter onto the griddle and cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.

6. Serve with fresh summer berries and a generous drizzle of maple syrup.

Winter Wonderland in Island Park:

In the winter, Island Park transforms into a snowy paradise, offering endless opportunities for snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobiling and other winter adventures. After a day of playing in the snow, returning to a warm cabin and enjoying a stack of pancakes is pure bliss.

The Pancake Recipe (Winter Edition):

For a heartier winter twist, consider adding these ingredients to your pancake recipe:

• 1/2 cup oats

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions (Winter Edition):

1. Follow the summer pancake recipe, but also add oats, nuts, dried cranberries, and cinnamon to the dry ingredients.

2. Proceed with the instructions as usual.

3. Top your winter pancakes with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon to make them extra cozy.

The national today website shared some fun information too. Here are the facts they shared:

Here is some nice history about pancake day from nationaltoday.com.

A day so nice they made it twice — September 26 is the year’s second National Pancake Day! Get those hotcakes on the griddle, it’s time to prepare some pancakes! Pancakes are an old staple, dating back to Ancient Greece. Since then, many varieties have been created across the globe. In Britain, France, and other parts of Europe, their pancakes (or crepes) are thin and often served with a sweet or savory filling. In Indonesia they consume pancakes known as “serabi”, which are made with rice flour and coconut milk. In Uganda pancakes are made with bananas. These are just a few of the many different variations across the globe. All are delicious and worth celebrating on National Pancake Day! Whichever style of pancake you prefer, get ready to enjoy a stack of them on September 26!

Celebrate National Pancake Day by creating a memorable pancake experience in your Island Park cabin. Whether you're basking in the warmth of summer or embracing the winter wonderland, these cabin pancakes will add a touch of magic to your Yellowstone vacation. Enjoy the flavors of your pancakes and the beauty of nature just beyond your doorstep. So, pack your pancake mix and make this National Pancake Day one to remember in the serene forests of Idaho.

For a place to stay during your vacation, find your cabin rental at www.VisitIslandParkIdaho.com.

French Fries - by Idaho...on National French Fry Day

Idaho potatoes have a rich history closely intertwined with the state of Idaho, earning them the reputation of being some of the finest potatoes in the world. On this National French Fry Day, let's take a quick journey through the history of Idaho potatoes and their contribution to the beloved French fry.

The story of Idaho potatoes begins in the mid-19th century when settlers, including European immigrants, arrived in Idaho. They discovered that the region's volcanic soil, ample water supply from mountainous regions, and ideal climate created perfect conditions for growing high-quality potatoes. Soon, the cultivation of potatoes became a significant part of Idaho's agricultural industry.

In 1935, the Idaho Potato Commission was established to promote and protect the state's potato industry. The commission played a crucial role in educating farmers about best practices, conducting research, and implementing quality standards, all of which contributed to the consistent production of excellent potatoes.

Over the years, Idaho potatoes gained recognition for their exceptional taste, texture, and versatility. The potatoes' high starch content, low moisture, and low sugar levels make them ideal for frying, resulting in perfectly crispy and fluffy French fries.

In the 1950s, with the rise of fast-food culture, French fries became immensely popular across the United States. Restaurants and food chains started seeking out Idaho potatoes specifically for their superior quality, leading to an increase in demand for Idaho-grown potatoes.

To ensure consumers could easily identify genuine Idaho potatoes, the Idaho Potato Commission introduced the "Grown in Idaho" seal in 1957. This distinctive seal served as a mark of authenticity, guaranteeing that the potatoes were grown in Idaho's fertile soil.

Today, Idaho remains the leading producer of potatoes in the United States. The state's potato farms stretch across vast areas, benefiting from the unique geography and favorable growing conditions. The commitment to quality and the stringent standards set by the Idaho Potato Commission have helped maintain the reputation of Idaho potatoes as the gold standard for French fries.

On National French Fry Day, it's a fitting occasion to celebrate the rich history of Idaho potatoes and the delightful contribution they have made to our beloved French fries. So, whether you're enjoying a plate of crispy fries at a local diner or indulging in your favorite fast-food treat, remember to savor the deliciousness that stems from Idaho's treasured spuds.

And as always, if you are looking for a place to enjoy your best Idaho French Fries, check out our cabins at www.VisitIslandParkIdaho.com.

How do you take your Hot Chocolate? We have some fun suggestions...

Hot cocoa and snowy days go together like peanut butter and jelly! We have some ideas on what to add to make it even better! ⁣

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☕ Cinnamon and Cayenne for a kick ⁣

☕Orange zest for a little brightness⁣

☕White chocolate or Nutella rim for more flavor with each sip⁣

☕Caramel for decadence⁣

☕Peppermint for holiday magic⁣

☕Maple syrup for a breakfast surprise

Are you the planner in the group? Start Planning now...

Spring may feel like an eternity away but now is the perfect time to start planning your excursions and adventures for 2023!⁣

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Want some local tips and ideas? Search our blog at https://visitislandparkidaho.com/blog!

Book your cabins close to Yellowstone here at www.VisitIslandParkIdaho.com and pick the perfect cabin for you and your friends and family.

Where To Eat in West Yellowstone

Note about West Yellowstone Place to Eat: West Yellowstone is busy in the morning, noon, and evening. There are lots of people and traffic, so please be careful when crossing streets and with youngsters. There are lots of shops to visit and it’s fun to walk around. The restaurants are busy as well and most do not take reservations. Below are some of our favorite places. Information shared with permission by Sandy Briggs.

Running Bear Pancake House,
538 Madison Avenue
(406) 646-7703

A great place to have breakfast. If you are hungry, the chicken fried steak is a favorite. They have good lunches, but most people go there for breakfast. They do not take reservations, but they usually move people through fast. The best way to avoid the crowds is to show up when they open at 6:00 am.

Wild West Pizza, 14 Madison Avenue
(406) 646-4400
This is a favorite place to stop and pick up a pizza to take home when exiting the park through the West Entrance. You can get cell service at the overlook of the Madison River, stop, and place your pickup order. If they aren’t too busy, the timing is good. They have the world’s best baked macaroni and cheese, too. Eating in is nice, too, but some of the longest lines in town are for this establishment. They do not take reservations.

McDonald’s, 100 South Canyon St.
(406) 646-4592

Hold on to your pocketbooks for this McDonald’s. It is literally the most expensive McDonald’s I have ever been to. When your troop is in the mood for fast food they know and love, what can you do? I am only adding this restaurant for those who have young kids (wink, wink). They may need a Happy Meal to keep them in their seats on the long day ahead or as a reward for staying in their seats all day. Just throwing it out there, it is an American favorite. You can order online which may save you some time

Bullwinkle’s, 115 North Canyon St.
(406) 380-4011
Bullwinkle’s has been a local favorite for a long time. Probably the most consistent food in West Yellowstone. They have American fare, fish, and game, in a comfy Western-themed atmosphere. They do not take reservations, but if you wait outside, they will add you to their list. It is close enough to local shops you can take turns sightseeing while someone in your party waits to be called.

 

Las Palmitas Taco Bus, 21 North Canyon St.
(406) 760-8174

This is one of our favorite places to get Mexican food in West Yellowstone. We usually call ahead and order it to go as the wait can sometimes be long. The tables are nice to sit, and people watch in and it’s nice to take a walk after dinner and check out the stores.



Mountain Mama’s Coffee House & Bakery
17 Madison Avenue
(406) 641-0089

This is the only place in miles to get a Starbuck’s drink. They don’t have all the drinks, but enough to make you feel less like you aren’t roughing it. They are famous for their huckleberry bear claws but get there early because they have been known to sell out. It is also a great place to get a custom sandwich if you are picnicking in the park. They also have some different specialty food items like elk meat pot pie. It’s a fun store to check out.

Ernie’s Bakery and Deli, 406 US-20
(406) 646-9467

Ernie’s is only open during the summer, and they do a booming business. They will make custom sandwiches. Call when you leave the cabin and pick them up on the way into town. They also have the best breakfast sandwiches in town. My daughter’s favorite is hashbrown, eggs, cheese, and sausage on a croissant. They aren’t cheap, but the result is worth it. Note: If they don’t answer the phone, it is because they are busy. If you want something, just stop in, and wait your turn.

Firehole BBQ Company, 120 Firehole Avenue
(406) 641-0020
A menu featuring an array of smoked meats and classic American comfort sides. This place always has a line, which is because if you want BBQ, this is the place to go. You can call ahead with orders if they aren’t too busy with walk-up customers. It’s worth the wait if you are craving BBQ.

The Buffalo Bar, 335 US-20
(406) 646-1176
Homey tavern with rustic, western décor, and video slot machines. They serve bison burgers, beer, and bar bites. They have buffalo in case you were hankering to try some. This place can get crowded on weekends and is a local favorite. They do not take reservations.



Rustic Candy Shop, 33 N. Canyon Street
(406) 646-7538
The Rustic Candy Shop is a local favorite. They make candy right in the store. They have fudge, chocolates, taffy, caramel apples, and other fun things to give you a sugar boost so you can make it through the day.

Where to eat in Island Park Idaho Close to Yellowstone

Note about Island Park Restaurants: Island Park is a small community. Because of the lack of available/affordable housing and the amount of people visiting Yellowstone National Park, local establishments suffer from lack of service providers. Please be patient if you are at one of these local establishments, everyone tries so hard to provide what you need, but it doesn’t always happen. The best advice is to plan as far ahead as possible and make reservations (if they take them). If you are spontaneous, try to arrive early (before 5:00 pm) and beat the rush or have the patience to wait for a table. Above all, practice kindness! We are all vested in you and your family having a great time in our small community.

Trout Hunter, 3327 US-20, Island Park
(208) 558-9900

 Trout Hunter is a restaurant, a fly shop, and handles guided fly-fishing trips. Because of this, the restaurant is often busy with their clients and a lot of tables are pre-reserved. If you want a fancier meal than other places, this is a good option. They have great food, steaks, fish, soups, salads, and the like and are on the banks of the Henry’s Fork of the Snake. In the summer they have seating on the deck. Check our blog about our dinner here but we love the caprice brochette, bison rib eye and a dinner salad. Oh and those mashed potatoes are the best bites ever too.

Café Sabor, 4298 US Highway 20, Island Park
(208) 558-9300

Café Sabor is the only Mexican restaurant in the area. They recently remodeled and are on the Big Springs section of the Henry’s Fork of the Snake. The food can be good at times, but at others, not so good. It is nice to sit on the deck and enjoy a margarita though, but don’t let them give you the PREMIX… you really want the margarita made from scratch. Give it a try if you are craving some Mexican food and don’t want to cook your own. I usually get the chimichanga.

Lakeside Lodge, 3857 Lakeside Lodge, Island Park
(208) 558-9770

Lakeside Lodge is the closest restaurant to the cabin in Rancho McCrea but still close to all of Island Park really, and if you have a boat, it’s fun to cruise down the reservoir, dock, and have some lunch or dinner on their deck. They serve burgers, steaks, salads, and have prime rib on occasion. It is great to have a late dinner then cruise the shores of Island Park Reservoir’s many homes as you watch the sun set. If you don’t have a boat, you can drive there by car in about 15 minutes from Rancho McCrea area. It is directly across the reservoir on the other side of the river. If you really want a great Idaho staple, try the FINGER STEAKS. They are a Boise Idaho thing and so so dang good. Tell them Teara sent you!

 Connie’s Restaurant, 4130 Quakie Ln., Island Park
(208) 558-6987

Connie’s is known for its home cooking. Soups, salads, burgers, ribs that fall of the bone, prime rib on Friday and Saturday nights, and home-made pies. Call ahead for reservations with as much notice as possible or show up before 5:00 pm to beat the dinner crowd. Note: They will not take to-go orders if the dining room is busy. They do take reservations for parties larger than 6 at the time of this writing. And really my favorite thing there is the fall off the bone ribs. Never gone wrong with them!

Henry’s Fork Lodge and Restaurant, 2794 S. Pinehaven Dr., Island Park

(208) 558-7953

This is the local special occasion dinner location. The restaurant is renowned throughout the region for gourmet, locally sourced, and seasonal dining. Call for reservations as the dining room is small and they accommodate their lodging and guiding guests first. It is a nice relaxing place on the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River.


Parlor at Mack’s Inn, 4292 US-20, Island Park
(208) 558-2450

The Parlor is across the water from Café Sabor and right next to the new Marriott hotel. The Parlor serves ice cream, coffee, specialty drinks, pizza, and desserts. It would be a great spot to stop after floating Big Springs to get a cold drink or some ice cream. It’s a popular area and can be quite congested. Watch for pedestrians.

Pond’s Lodge, 3757 US-20, Island Park
(208) 558-7221

Pond’s Lodge is not too far from the cabins in Island Park. It is the closest restaurant with decent pizza if you are craving some. They have the only poutine (dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy) around. They do not take reservations but can usually accommodate a fair amount of people. Try their tap root beer served in a frosty mug, it’s great on a hot day. Their burgers, French dips, and other food is alright. Though some of the service is not my favorite, the pizza is pretty okay.

Yellowstone National Park Picnic Areas While Staying in Island Park

There are 52 picnic areas in Yellowstone National Park. Below are a few of our favorites. Take some wet and/or sanitizing wipes as the vault toilets in the park tend to run out of both sanitizer and toilet paper frequently. The wipes are also handy to wipe down the picnic table before eating. Personally, I like to take a tablecloth. Campfires are only allowed in picnic areas with fire grates. Camp stoves (liquid or gas) and safe-contained charcoal grills may be used at all locations. Written by our friend Sandy, a long time resident of Island Park and our friend.

Nez Perce Ford

This is one of our favorite picnic areas because we like to fish on the Yellowstone River in this area. It’s a beautiful spot on the Yellowstone River with picnic tables in the shade and sun. In the spring if there was a good year for snow, the picnic tables near the water are sometimes under water, but the tables on the point are high and dry always. You can usually see bison here and there is a restroom, too.

This picnic area is on the road from Fishing Bridge to Canyon (closer to fishing bridge).

Virginia Cascades

To reach this picnic area you must take the one-way road to Virginia Cascades because the picnic area is near the end of the one-way road. If you are or have beginner fishermen with you, the end of the road where the meadow flattens out at the top of the grade is a great spot to fish. Try a Parachute Adams and skate it across the water. You are guaranteed to catch a fish. They used to have beautiful Brook Trout here but eradicated them because they were not a native species.

This road and picnic area is on the road between Norris and Canyon.

Gibbon Meadows

Gibbon Meadows picnic area is a great spot. Clear cool water to wade in, tables, shade, and toilets. We have seen wolves just north of here trying to take down a yearling elk. It was the most amazing thing to watch. There are 10 picnic tables and two vault toilets.

This area is on the road between Norris and Mammoth.

Firehole River

Right on the banks of the Firehole River. You will see a lot of fishermen in this section, check the regulations because it might be flyfishing only. Lots of tables, beautiful scenery, shade, vault toilet and trash cans. Can’t beat it on a sunny day.

 It is on the road between Madison Junction and Old Faithful.

Le Hardy Rapids

Picnic in the woods by the river. They have 7 picnic tables and one vault toilet. It’s a beautiful spot to check out the rapids, hear the roar of the river, and enjoy a picnic.

It is on the road between Fishing Bridge and Canyon.

Soda Butte Creek

On the road between Roosevelt and Cook City Silver Gate

 This is one of our favorites because the view of the surrounding mountains is incredible. Take the spotting scope we provide and look up in the surrounding mountains for Big Horn Sheep and Mountain Goats. There are many places from here to the Northeast entrance to YNP to use the scope on both sides of the road. In the spring, we used a scope to see where a momma grizzly emerged from her den with her new cubs. Such fun!

 
Cave Falls

Road from Ashton to Bechler Ranger Station  

There are two areas along the Falls River and the Cave Falls area. The first two tables are located at the lower falls pullout parking and viewing area. This is a beautiful area to view the falls and have a picnic. The last table is located at the end of the road turnaround. There is a pit toilet, parking area, and two trail heads located here. There are no grates, fire pits, or water available at this site.

Insider’s Guide: Island Park’s Best Food & Drinks

Pastrami Sandwich on grilled marble rye with melted cheese and grilled onions, with or without sauerkraut, at Connie’s Restaurant & Saloon.

(updated May 2022)
One of the best things about traveling is experiencing the local grub, especially in a charming town like Island Park where the beer is cold and people are warm. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast of country biscuits & gravy to start your day of adventure, a quick homestyle burger & fries for lunch, or an elegantly rustic prime rib dinner, this local’s guide from the well-known to “hidden gems” will guide you to it. 

Connie’s Restaurant and Saloon 
One of the most well-known, iconic establishments in Island Park known for friendly, fast service and simply tasty comfort food.

Local Menu Picks: 
Fettuccini
Cheese Garlic Bread
Ribeye Steak
Prime Rib 
Patty Melt
Spaghetti
BLT
Pastrami Sandwich (pictured)

Trouthunter 
Last Chance Bar & Grill at Trouthunter, dubbed “the anglers gathering place,” has a beautiful view and good company to enjoy along with seasonal food from scratch and great cocktails.

Local Menu Picks: 

Bison Prime Rib
Deep-fried funeral potatoes
Biscuits and Gravy 
Chicken Wings (try sauce on side) seasonal

Cafe Sabor 
Everyone loves Mexican food. Here’s where to go when the taco cravings kick in.

Local Menu Picks: 
Fajitas
Chicken Chimichanga
Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Elk Creek Ranch 
Only open during the summer season, this is an experience worth planning ahead for—set menu and limited seating. The dinner is served home style at the table on a historic ranch with amazingly breathtaking views.

Local Menu Picks: 
Whatever is on the menu that day!

Lakeside Lodge Restaurant
A full-service bar and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Delicious home-cooked meals with a beautiful view of the Island Park Reservoir. Enjoy eating on the deck in summer!

Local Menu Picks:
Breakfast buffet (for 2021)
Prime Rib on Saturday Night
Steak Salad

Ranchers Chicken Salad
Buffalo Burger

Shotgun Bar & Reload Grill 
Here’s your classic western beer & wine bar with awesome grub for breakfast lunch or dinner! Hours vary. If the open sign is on, they say Come On In!

Local Menu Picks:
Biscuits & Gravy
Cowboy Burger
Smoking Gun Chili 
Loaded Tots

Meadow Creek Lodge
Probably Island Park’s favorite “secret” little diner, the place is only accessible by snowmobile in winter. Ride on up to relax and warm up with the friendliest folks and homemade comfort classics.

Local Menu Picks: 
Bacon Cheeseburger 
Fresh Cut Fries
Homemade Pies!

Ready to dig in?  Reserve your stay at one of our charming cabins today!

Happy Angler’s
Breakfast burritoes

You want to see it all? Here is how...Close To Yellowstone

These are some individual suggestions while traveling from Rexburg north to West Yellowstone after visiting Bear World: 

1.        Stay on Highway 20 thru Rexburg heading toward St. Anthony and then Ashton.

2.       At Ashton there is an awesome place called Frost Top Drive Inn;  their Huckleberry Shakes are superb (if you like huckleberries) and also there is a reason their sign is a huge root beer float. Plus this is the place where you can get ranch and/or FRY SAUCE, try it on your fries or tots.

3.       Directly across from Frost Top is the Scenic Byway heading to Lower and then Upper Mesa Falls.  Upper Mesa Falls is a must stop if your time permits.  Feed the large trout just prior to crossing over Warm River (bring a loaf of bread).  There is a wooden dock just before crossing the River.  It puts you at a beautiful Falls on the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. From there, continue the same way and that puts you back on Highway 20 thru Island Park, Pond’s Lodge, Macks Inn, and then about 20 more miles to West Yellowstone and the entrance to the Park.  At the first traffic light when entering West, turn right for that road and then a left at the 2nd light – that takes you directly to the Park Entrance.

4.       Entrance to Madison Junction is 14 miles and hopefully you will see buffalo and their calves.

5.       Decision time at Madison Junction: a.  Turning right takes you towards Old Faithful and b. Turning left takes you towards Norris Basin Geysers and then Canyon Village.

6.       Heading towards Old Faithful:

a.       Cross over the River and then about ½ mile take Firehole Canyon Drive.  Short one way drive and you will view beauty of the Canyon and then stop at the pretty waterfall on the Firehole Rive, then proceed on to the vault toilets (on your left); stop here and view the beautiful swimming Hole; we go there and then partially down the stairs and then along the trail, cross over river, up the wall and then jump into the rapids and float down to swimming hole (I think this will be closed right now – if not, take water shoes, and do this fun float.

b.       Continue on until back to main highway; turn right and next stop is Midway Basin Geyser (and the Grand Prismatic Geyser – probably most beautiful in Park). Park in Lot and then across river to the Geyser and Prismatic.

image by tg taken from the overlook on the way to fairy falls

c.       Proceed from here to the next pullout which is the trailhead for Fairy Falls and more important on your trip the Observation Deck to get an aerial view of Grand Prismatic. After crossing over the River (walking) turn right and your time to Observation is about 20 minutes on flat trail each way.

d.       Continue from here to Biscuit Basin Geyser.  At backside of Geyser is a trailhead to go to Mystic Falls (the actual sign was down when I went in May/21).  It’s a mile hike and well worth it. There is one choice to make and you go left and down to the River/creek (can’t see it when you go left) for a short distance and then head up stream to Mystic Falls.  Mostly an easy 1 mile hike).

e.       From here head to Old Faithful and see it erupt.  You can go on line and find approximate times of eruption.  If Hotel is open, fun to wander in the old Hotel and they have public toilets with running water!!

f.        Time permitting, head from Old Faithful towards West Thumb (less than 4 miles) and stop for a short time at Kepler Cascades

7.       Heading to Grand Canyon of Yellowstone:

a.       Same route to Madison Junction

b.       Then turn right towards Norris Geyser Basin (14 miles from Junction)

c.       Stop at Gibbon Falls; nice parking lot – plenty of parking and Falls is very pretty

d.       Then proceed to Norris Geyser Basin.  At 4 way stop, you turn left and then good luck in finding parking.  There is an excellent path to follow around the Geysers and it’s and easy walk.  I think time is less than an hour.

e.       After Geyser, then proceed to the original 4 way stop.  Go directly thru that stop and proceed to Canyon.  At Canyon, take a right and stay on that road until you see a sign indicating  Upper Brink of the Yellowstone River.  This is new and you park and walk (less than 100 yards) down a path and then steps and you are on top of the Brink of Upper Yellowstone River.  It is awesome.

f.        From there, continue towards Yellowstone Lake for less than a mile and you will see signs of Artist Point and Uncle Tom’s Cabin.  Turn left and you cross over the Yellowstone River.  There is a very nice and wooden picnic area on your right side just after crossing River.  Good place for picnic lunch.  (shaded).  Continuing on, you will turn into the parking lot for Uncle Tom’s cabin.  You get a very nice view from here of  Brink of Upper Falls (opposite side and more distance away).

g.       Continue from there to Artist’s Point; further up that same main road.  Artist’s Point is well named.  It is spectacular and the views awesome of colors of the Grand Canyon of  Yellowstone.  Great photos here.

Hayden Valley

h.       Proceed back across Yellowstone River; turn left and head to Hayden Valley.  Almost always I have seen buffalo heading towards Hayden Valley.  It is very picturesque with River.  I have seen wolves there on a couple occasions (that’s all).

i.         Maybe proceed on to Yellowstone Lake and the beauty of the Old Hotel.

j.         Time will dictate; but I’d turn around at Hayden Valley or Yellowstone Lodge and same route back to West Yellowstone.

k.       Time permitting on way back, do the Artists Paintpots (I’d never done until 5/21) and it is a very nice short and interesting view/hike of the Paintpots.

• Love,

  Grandpa

Dinner at Sunset at THE TROUT HUNTER

When we get asked where to go for dinner, we have a favorite list we like to share and last night we decided to venture over to a local place we always hear about ourselves. 

The TROUT HUNTER in Island Park is in the Last Chance section and right on the river. 

We washed up after a fun day in the area and headed over to the Trout Hunter at 8:00 PM so we could watch the sunset during dinner and maybe miss the crowds a little bit.   Well, we may have missed some of the crowd, but the TROUT HUNTER was still super busy and waited for about 10 minutes to be seated.  While we were waiting, we noticed the décor in the dining room filled with local taxidermy mounted on the wall including one of the largest moose and elk we’ve seen.

We were seated inside but near the outside window on the river with the sun preparing to set.  It was casting an amazing orange and amber color upon the area reflecting on the river making for perfect conversation.

Since the restaurant was so packed, we did have about a wait of twenty minutes before our waiter said hello and when he did, he was great. He brought us our water and took our order.  We ordered the caprese on bruschetta as an appetizer, Andy ordered the rack of lamb, but they were sold out, so he ordered the Bison Prime Rib, mashed potatoes, and dinner salad.  I ordered a cheesesteak sandwich with onion rings and dinner salad.   

Here came the appetizer…. Oh man this was delicious.  From the bread to the balsamic drizzled on top perfectly placed basil, baby tomatoes and same sized mozzarella cheese balls.  If you love Caprese anything then you want this for sure. Yes…. worth the thirty-minute wait for sure.  

 We ate our dinner salads and then the entrées arrived just in time for the sun to start setting a big orange color over the Snake River .   His bison prime rib was cooked to perfection.  I had a bite and it practically melted in my mouth.  Wow!  I mean, just delicious and those mashed potatoes… didn’t even need butter trust me, these are some amazing, mashed potatoes, okay so I had like three bites. 

My cheesesteak was also all that I could want.  A large soft hoagie roll stuffed with perfectly cooked tender steak bits smothered in grilled onions, mushrooms (peppers if you like, but it’s not for me) and your favorite choice of cheese, I chose provolone.  The onion rings are panko breaded and I love to dip mine in ranch or fry sauce, which we decided to call Ketchup Aioli next time we are in a “fancy” place just for fun.  Side note, it was in jest that we came up with Ketchup Aioli because fry sauce just doesn’t sound “fancy” enough for some places.  Another side note, garlic is in all my favorite aioli’s.

If we go to TROUT HUNTER again, I bet he will order the ROL and I may venture to the fish tacos, we will make reservations for sure more than the same day, if possible, too.  If we can’t make reservations, the wait was not the worst and especially if you get that caprese appetizer, or the prime rib, or the cheesesteak!

Do we suggest going to the TROUT HUNTER? Yes we do but not if you are in a hurry.  This is a place perfect for laid-back easy-going folks ready for a view of the river, willing to wait a bit for amazing food from salads to bison prime rib and more.

We think the food was delicious and we don’t think we would go “all out” like this every night but would definitely consider it a place worth going to.

The wine, I almost forgot about the red wine. I am just opening my palette a bit more and this wine really was good. I would even order it again. That is all I have to say about it really as I am no wine steward but there you have it.

The lunch and dinner menu is online so just click here to check it out. Here is the breakfast menu as well.

You know, we may even go for breakfast too. I love breakfast foods.

Go go check it out if you have time and a hungry belly. Tell them Teara sent you! Not that they know me but I think it is fun for them to hear who sent them. Enjoy!