Glenns Ferry is located between Boise and Twin Falls, south of Interstate 84, and sits nestled right next to the Snake River. It makes a perfect day trip from our valley.

To pioneers traveling on the Oregon Trail, this spot was well known. Three Island Crossing, now a state park near Glenns Ferry, was one of the most famous river crossings on the historic trail, and one of the most dangerous. Why would the pioneers attempt such a perilous river crossing? The rewards were many: better food for their animals, better water sources, and a shorter route. But many died in the effort, so about half the pioneers opted to stay on the safe side of the river, enduring the drier, rockier route.

In 1869, Gus Glenn constructed a ferry about two miles upstream, thus making the river crossing safer and giving the town its name.

Today, a visit to Glenns Ferry must include Three Island Crossing State Park. There is enough here to keep you busy all day, and camping is available at the Wagon Wheel Campground too. The Oregon Trail History and Education Center houses replica covered wagons, programs, and a self-guided tour that takes you through the history of the area and the experience of the pioneers. You can hike along the Snake River and walk in the footsteps of those long-ago adventurers. The stunning vistas entice you to let your imagination take you back in time.

Go the second Saturday of August and watch an authentic reenactment of a river crossing. Because it is so dangerous even in the 21st century, the reenactment is demonstrated only once during the day. Afterward, you can enjoy the festivities, arts, crafts, and food vendors that set up for the day. Events often include living history presentations and a historic skills fair.

Even if you can't make it to the park for the reenactment, go and see the Education Center. There's also fishing, or have a picnic along the Snake River. Bird watchers can look for the Grasshopper Sparrow, Horned Grebe, and Violet-green Swallow.

Neysa CM Jensen is a Boise writer, mother, and musician. She visited every possible Oregon Trail site in Idaho and Oregon when her children were younger.

Glenns Ferry Historical Museum
In 1909, the area residents built a school from sandstone blocks quarried across the Snake River and carried to the site by wagons and a barge. It remained in use as a school until 1965. In 1987, the building gained a place upon the National Register of Historic Places and was purchased by the city. The museum contains artifacts from several eras of Glenns Ferry history, including items from Native Americans and Oregon Trail pioneers, railroad development, the sheep and cattle industries, the King Hill Irrigation Project, and early farming development.

The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5pm, June 1 through September 30. Call (208) 366-7706 or call City Hall at (208) 366-7418. 

Gorby Opera House
Obviously, the town's history doesn't end with the pioneers. The Gorby Opera House was built in 1914, originally for vaudeville stage acts. These days, it houses a live theater open June-August. On Fridays, you can see a mystery show and dinner. Saturdays feature melodramas. Call (208) 366-7408.

Heart of Idaho Gourmet Foods & Fudge Factory
This delightful shop is a celebration of all things made of potatoes and huckleberries. For more information and a complete description of their many Idaho products, go to www.heartofidaho.com or call (208) 366-7687.

Call (208) 366-2394 or (866) 634-3246 for the Campground and the Oregon Trail History and Education Center.

Call (208) 366-7345 for the Glenns Ferry Visitor Center.