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 the south and see the wind turbines and the snake river valley. It was so peaceful and quite. You can literally see to the horizon.We spooked a nice four-point mule deer as the kids sat chucking rocks off the side of the cliff. He stood broadside long enough for us to shoot…a few good pictures before he bounded off.

There is quite a bit of elevation gain so trekking poles and water are a good idea.
We will have to return there again, as I have found out that there are several geocaches leading up to, and at the summit of Teapot Dome.







Location: Teapot Dome, Idaho 83647, USA

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