The tiny town of Glenns Ferry, 28 miles southeast of Mountain Home on the Snake River and I-84, would hardly rate a mention were it not the site of one of the most important crossings on the old Oregon Trail. This site, now preserved as Three Island State Park, a mile southwest of town, gives one of the strongest impressions of the tough going for Oregon-bound pioneers. A very good visitors center (daily; 208/366-2394), with a Conestoga wagon out front, has displays of trail lore and history, and every August enthusiasts get together to reenact the river crossing. Go for a swim to cool off, and feel the powerful currents—more placid here than most anywhere else, which is why it was considered the best place to ford the river. This is also a fine place to camp; the usually clear night sky makes for excellent stargazing, and there’s even a very docile herd of buffalo.
