Top Waterfalls to See in Idaho and a Must Ride Scenic Byway

When something is located near a world renown site it can easily get over looked.  That is the case with the Mesa Falls in Idaho.  Just 50 miles southwest from the west entrance to Yellowstone lies two awesome waterfalls, the Upper Mesa Falls and the Lower Mesa Falls.

The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway (ID 47) is a 29 mile road that runs east of US 20 and connects with US 20 at both ends, Ashton, ID on the south end and 9 miles south of Island Park, ID on the north end.  The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway also intersects the Teton Scenic Byway just east of Ashton and both are great roads to ride.

The Henrys Fork River runs through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and is a tributary to the Snake River. The river cuts through the basalt rock and surrounding landscape to create two eye-popping waterfalls.  The waterfalls are the last notable falls on the Snake River that have not been impacted by manmade influences.  

We took US 20 from West Yellowstone to Island Park where we stopped for breakfast at Pond's Lodge in Island Park.  Pond's Lodge has cabins, a gas station and a restaurant.  The restaurant is a nice establishment with friendly and attentive service as well as good food.  The log siding building is charming and it has sportsman decor.  More importantly they served a great breakfast.

 The trophies on the wall watch over the customers

Huckleberry Pancakes

My son and I enjoyed huckleberry pancakes, scrambled eggs, and hash browns.  The huckleberry pancakes were delicious, the eggs and hash browns were cooked to order and it all tasted great!  The other seven in our group were also happy with their orders and we all left with full stomachs, so I guess you can say we were satisfied.

Heading south away from Island Park we turned east on ID 47 a.k.a. Mesa Falls Scenic Byway and rode 13 miles to the entrance of the Mesa Falls area.  The road and parking lot are well paved.  There are restrooms, a visitor center, a gift shop, boardwalks and a viewing platforms.  The park is well maintained.  Fees were $1/ motorcycle and $5/car.  (Fees may change)  Access to view the Lower Mesa Falls is from the Grandview Campground and Overlook.

Upper Falls in the morning sunlight

 

The Upper Falls is 114 feet high and 300 feet wide (the Upper Yellowstone Falls is 109 feet).  The roar of the falls can be heard long before the waterfall is seen.  The morning sunlight and spray from the falls create an impressive rainbow.  The spray creates a lush ecosystem on the side of the canyon below the forest.  The secluded area was peaceful and crowd free.  We saw various birds including an osprey.  The wildflowers were blooming and were colorful. 

 

We thought this rock at the base of the Upper Falls looked like a bear.

 

The falls are the last two major undisturbed waterfalls in Idaho.  Most have been impacted by irrigation or hydroelectric projects.  The pristine wilderness around the falls is a hikers paradise, although grizzly bear have been seen in the area according to park signs.  There is a one mile hiking trailing from Upper Falls to Lower Falls.  The trailhead is located at Upper Falls between the two parking lots on the east side.  There are other longer trails for those wanting to hike more.

Awesome Photo opp!

The river heading toward Lower Falls.

Lower Falls is not as high, but it sure is beautiful.  Notice the hiking trail on the edge of the canyon.

 

When you are visiting Yellowstone taking some time to visit the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls well be very rewarding not to mention you will encounter a lot less congestion.  The ride/drive to the falls is beautiful and the falls will make you smile.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!    

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Awesome Waterfall Route in the Blue Ridge Mountains

 

The Smoky Mountains Waterfalls are beautiful

I've had the incredible opportunity to uncover a variety of stunning waterfalls while journeying through

 the breathtaking scenery of Western North Carolina. Many of these hidden gems are conveniently 

 located near the highway, making them easily accessible. If you’re a waterfall lover looking for an 

unforgettable day trip, let me share one of my favorite scenic routes that begins and ends 

in Waynesville, NC!

 

Kick off your adventure on US 276, famously known as Pisgah Highway. You’ll find yourself enchanted

by the twisting roads as you head east. After enjoying the drive, take a turn onto US 64 west, where

you’ll pass through the charming town of Brevard on your way to Highlands. Keep going west on US

64, and you’ll glide through Franklin, eventually connecting with US 23 north to join US 74 East. This

route winds just north of Dillsboro before bringing you back to Waynesville.

Waynesville Waterfall Loop has plenty of fun curves also!

 

As you navigate along US 276, don't miss the chance to stop at some of the region's most mesmerizing

waterfalls. Must-see spots include the iconic Looking Glass Falls, the easily accessible Moore Cove 

Falls (just a 1.5-mile round-trip hike), Upper Log Hollow Falls (a 2.6-mile trek), Barnett Branch Falls (a 

brief 0.7-mile hike), and the exhilarating Sliding Rock Falls. Each waterfall promises a visual delight, 

and the drive itself is filled with scenic twists and turns that make for an exhilarating trip.

The route has twists and turns as well as beautiful scenery

For a unique adventure, make sure to visit Sliding Rock Falls, located just 28 miles southeast of 

Waynesville and 19 miles north of Brevard along US 276. This favored spot is managed by the 

National Forest Service and requires a $5 entry fee per person. Lifeguards are available from 9 AM to 6 

PM during the peak season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, ensuring a safe experience for 

everyone.

The natural slide is fun, refreshing and produces many smiles

What truly makes Sliding Rock Falls stand out is its thrilling opportunity to cool off on a hot southern 

summer day. With a natural 60-foot water slide leading into a refreshing 7-foot deep pool, it’s a fun way 

to beat the heat. The current is just right, guiding you down into the inviting coolness below. While the 

water can be brisk, it’s incredibly refreshing, especially in warm weather. The surrounding landscape 

adds to the ambiance, filled with laughter from fellow adventurers eager to take the plunge.

Sliding Rock Falls is surrounded by old growth trees

 

A visit to Sliding Rock Falls is absolutely worth the trek and small fee—just be prepared for an 

exhilarating splash when you slide in!

A walking path leads behind Dry Falls

As you continue your journey towards Highlands, NC, be sure to take in the sights of Sequoyah Falls 

and Bridal Veil Falls along US 64, just a short distance of less than three miles. More waterfalls await, 

including Dry Falls, Quarry Falls, and Cullasaja Falls. One of the most unique experiences is being able 

to park and walk behind Bridal Veil Falls, a thrill not offered at many other spots!

Bridal Veils Fall pullout allows for a unique perspective

 

Each town on this delightful 135-mile loop has its own charm, featuring inviting shops and cozy “mom 

and pop” restaurants renowned for their delicious meals. This route is a treasure trove of winding 

roads, extraordinary landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and outstanding hiking trails, all just waiting to 

be discovered\

Ride carefully and prayerfully!    

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 

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Cool off at a natural waterpark

Seems like everyone in the South looks for ways to cool off during the hot summer months.  My son and I are no different, even when on our summer trips we look for ways to stay cool.  We have taken rafting trips during our last three summer trips and we visited a unique natural water-slide in North Carolina while on our 2011 summer trip.

Sliding Rock is a favorite for many vacationers

Just south of the Blue Ridge Parkway and US 276 intersection and north of Brevard, NC lies Sliding Rock.  Sliding Rock is overseen by the National Forest Service and has an entry fee of $1/person.  Lifeguards are on duty ensuring safety for all.

Sliding Rock is a natural 60-foot waterslide that flows in to a 7-foot deep pool that was developed by the US Forest Service for this recreational area.  The water flows quick enough to "push" swimmers down the slide and into the pool.  The water is very cold, but is refreshing on hot summer days.

My son enjoys a slide as he heads to the pool at the bottom

Most in our group did not put on their swimming suits and participate, but the natural surroundings were great and it was nice to relax watching and laughing.  The ride to get there was great.  We road the Wayah Road to Franklin, NC where we jumped on SH 28 (Moonshiner 28) down to Highlands.  From Highlands we road US 64 through Brevard turning north on US 276.  The roads are great.  Twisties, bridges, shaded stretches, sweeping curves, and awesome scenery.  We passed by some great waterfalls between Franklin and Highlands.

 Bridal Veil Falls has a pullout directly under the falls

Uniquely named Dry Falls

When we left Sliding Rock we continued north to the Blue Ridge Parkway where we head southwest to US 74 where we headed back to Robbinsville.

Cloudy day on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The ride to Sliding Rock is worth the time even if you don't stop, but if you are there the $1 fee is a great value to look at, if not experience, this natural waterslide.

Seeing Osprey Falls in Yellowstone National Park

Part of the biker experience is the wind in the face, the sights, sounds, smells, and the weather.  I love getting out away from the crowds and experiencing the outdoors with as little human interference as possible.  

While riding in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) I could see a lot of geothermal features, wildlife, and natural features from the bike and I was able to park and take short walks to many of the famous sites such as Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, the Upper and Lower Fall, and the Morning Glory Pool, but I wanted to see and experience YNP from less crowded vantage points.

 The pools have such vivid color.

One of the most famous sites in America - Old Faithful Geyser.

At nearly 370 in diameter the Grand Prismatic is the largest hot spring

in the USA and third in the world.

I wanted to get away from the crowds to see some of the more remote sites and two other men in our group were willing to do some hiking with me and my son.  The most enjoyable of the three hikes we took was also the longest and the most rewarding - the hike to Osprey Falls.

We left the West Yellowstone KOA early that morning grabbing breakfast at Ernie's Bakery (more about Ernie's later) and then road to the Old Bunsen Peak Road Trail trailhead - 5 miles south of Mammoth.

On the ride to the trailhead we saw two different coyotes (including one crossing the road near the trailhead), bison, elk, and a swan. Of course we saw steam from numerous geothermal features that are otherwise hidden behind trees and hills far away from the areas were visitors are allowed.  The ride was great - so little traffic and crisp cold air (approx 45 - 55 degrees - July 19, 2010).

Coyote near the trailhead early in the morning.

Once on the trail we were totally alone, just four of us.  It was quite peaceful and well worth the early ride.  We headed southeast along the Old Bunsen Peak Road past burnt forest, through grassland, and past Sheepeaters Cliffs.

Sheepeaters Cliffs were named after a sub-band of Shoshone Indians.

After passing the Sheepeaters Cliffs and Bunsen Peak we turned south on the Osprey Falls spur and entered the forest (still recovering from a fire years ago).  We could hear the roar of the falls and see Gardner River long before we could see Osprey Falls.  The last 1/4 mile we descended a series of 14 switchbacks and 800 feet of elevation down into the Sheepeaters Canyon.

My son heading down the series of switchbacks as the trail nears the falls.

Osprey Falls and the trail - we are nearly there.

Osprey Falls - 150 foot falls.

The vertical cliffs rise over 500 feet straight up.  Sheepeaters Canyon is one of the deepest in YNP according to the National Parks Service website. Our hike was 9.1 miles (round trip) with an elevation change of about 1100 with 800 of the change within 1/4-1/2 miles of the falls.

I had been working out prior to the trip and felt ready for the hike, but I will tell you the hike back up those 14 switchbacks was tough.   We were in a hurry to meet the rest of the group for a 1/2 day river rafting trip in Gardiner, Montana so we had to push it.

It was well worth it.  I highly recommend the hike or any of the hikes in YNP.  You will see so much more when you get away from the crowds.  Be prepared and take water & snacks as well as other hiking type supplies.  Make sure you have comfortable shoes and go take a hike! 

Epic Road in South Dakota

Everyone knows about Sturgis and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota and for good reason.  A world renown monument and the town synonymous with motorcycles, but there is a lot more to see and a lot of great roads in the  southwest region on South Dakota. (All photos taken July, 2007 except when noted)

23 miles west of Sturgis on US 14A/85 is a small community called Cheyenne Crossing and US 14A turns north through Spearfish Canyon 22 miles to the town of Spearfish.  If you ride from Sturgis you will go through Deadwood and Lead both historical, interesting, and fun towns.

The Cheyenne Crossing Store sits on the northwest corner of the intersection.  The store consist of  gas station, a general store, an upstairs lodge, and a restaurant.  The food is great!  Especially the breakfast.  During our five day stay in Lead we ate breakfast three times and lunch once at the Crossing.

The restaurant's decor is country and cozy.  The servers were always friendly and helpful.  The food arrived hot and tasty.  The sourdough pancakes are big, the bacon thick, and the Indian Tacos satisfying.  I highly recommend the pancakes for breakfast and the Buffalo burger for lunch.  No one in our group of six ever complained about the food they ordered.  (photo on right from www.cheyennecrossing.org/cafe.html)

After each meal we enjoyed looking around the general store.  They have snacks, drinks, camping supplies, small groceries, and some tourist like items including Cheyenne Crossing shirts/sweaters, etc.

Stop by the Cheyenne Crossing store - you will enjoy a great meal and a good ole country atmosphere.

After our breakfast we rode the 22 mile Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway.  This is one of the best roads in the country.  It has plenty of curves, great scenery, and historic significance.  Like the name suggest the road is in a canyon and runs along side Spearfish Creek most of the way.  The byway has 13 designated "Points of Interest" including a "Dances With Wolves" film site.  The film site is about 4 miles off of the byway and about 3.7 of it is on gravel/dirt.  Once at the site you don't see much.  Members of the group went and were greatly disappointed.  (photo on the left for film site)

One point of interest site that is worth stopping can be seen from the byway, Bridal Veil Falls.  Bridal Veil Falls is located int he northern 1/3 of the byway.  There is a unpaved pullout that we used.  Be careful, it is really close to a curve.  The fall is about 50 feet and is one of three falls in the canyon, but it is the most accessible.  (photo from pullout off of the Byway)

The Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is one of those roads that you will want to ride to one end, turn around and ride it again, and probably want to ride yet again.  Besides the twists and turns and the scenery the road is also well maintained.

If you are up in the area of the Black Hills in South Dakota you will want to ride Spearfish Canyon and grab a bite to eat at the Cheyenne Crossing Store.  You will enjoy both and you will want to go back for more.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!    

 Top Five Oz Videos

  

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

        

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Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!
 

 

Viking Bags - Quality saddlebags and luggage for your motorcycle travels

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
 

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.  You may comment below.

 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 

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