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Idaho Youth ChalleNGe Academy

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I took a week off “Roaming Mountain Home” to spend time with the staff and cadets at the Idaho Youth ChalleNGe in Pierce, Idaho.   The location for this program couldn’t be more fitting. The mountainous region is astonishing and brings a breath of fresh air in number of ways.  For those of you that are unaware of this program, let me expand. The Youth ChalleNGe is a nationwide program established by the National Guard that gives second chances to teenagers between the ages of 16-18.   Idaho joined the ranks in 2014 to offer this program to the state and assist Idaho’s youth to be equipped and confident to cope with life’s stressors.  The mission of the academy is to, “intervene in and reclaim the lives of 16-18-year-old high school dropouts, producing program graduates with the values, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as responsible and productive citizens of Idaho.”  To accomplish their mission the Idaho Youth ChalleNGe adheres
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Crater Rings

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Eight miles outside of Mountain Home is a National Natural Landmark, Crater Rings! A short drive on a dirt road will take you to a phenomenal and peaceful view. The volcanic craters are adjacent to each other and each rim can be easily hiked. For those that wish to take in all the scenic views, the trail continues to encircle both rings.  This hike was the perfect way to end a busy day. I can’t express the tranquility of this hike! The entire family enjoyed getting out in the cool, crisp autumn air and relaxing on an evening walk. Because we began our hike later in the day, we were able to experience the colorful orange and pinks of the sunset.  As we trekked back to our vehicle, we could see the glowing of the local farms and Air Force base. As a precaution it is advised to stay on the tails. While hiking around, we found a baby rattlesnake and it was ready to defend its territory! Also, the crater walls do have steep drop-offs in some areas. For both reaso
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Teapot Dome

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                                                                      Teapot Dome We took a hike up Teapot Dome outside of Mountain Home which is near the original location of Mountain Home/Rattlesnake. The drive is just a few miles up US-20 where you will pass what is left of Jackson School (1890’s-1920’s) and the vineyards of Sweetbriar Winery. A short drive down Teapot road will lead to an outcrop of rhyolite cliffs which was a dominant marker along the Oregon Trail. The weather was gorgeous for a late October hike. Although the trail was steep and rocky, it was easy enough for the entire family. We followed the fence line until we reached the top of the Teapot Dome. At this point the landscapes opened up a bit and we chose to keep ascending, we let the kids lead as there is not a formed trail. Not necessarily the easiest route, but they had fun bouldering, running through the sagebrush and noting the colorful lichen covered rocks. From the top you can lookout to
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