Take a Hike

The weather has been cooler lately so the kids and I decided it was time for a hike. I got on the fabulous Ridge to Rivers website to search out which hike would be best for us. We settled on a hike up to Table Rock. The kids are familiar with Table Rock since we made the drive to the top last fall.

So Tuesday morning we put on our hiking shoes and headed for the trailhe

ad behind the Old Penitentiary. (Another trailhead can also be found across from the Warm Springs Golf Course

parking lot). We pulled into the parking lot of the penitentiary and guess who we saw getting off of their bikes? My aunt Irene and uncle Paul. Wow! What a coincidence to run into them. They had the same idea that morning to hike Table Rock. They waited for me to put sunscreen on the kids and then we all hiked together. The boy and the baby made it about half way until they were ready to turn around. Poor boy had a really bad stomachache and said, "Ow, ew, ow, ew" the whole way down. My aunt and uncle and the girl kept going until they made it to the top. They snapped some great pictures and had a great time. I was so glad they were there.

There is a kiosk at the base of the trail that shows you a map of all the different routes to the top. Some are more difficult than others. The Ridge to Rivers website has a link to family friendly hikes that is very informative. Give them a call if you have any questions. To get to the Idaho Penitentiary parking lot follow these directions. The kiosk and trail markers will show you where to go from there.

What to know before you go: Go on a cool day or in the early morning. There is no shade on the trail and it gets very hot. Take your cell phone for emergencies. Bring water and wear sunscreen and a hat. Wear hiking boots or good shoes. The hike took us about 2 hours, but we are went at a snail's pace. Have fun. Enjoy being in nature and taking in some beautiful views of the valley.