For our highlighted site along this scenic byway, we've posted photos of the Fossil Beds historical marker and the view of the fossil beds identified by the historical marker. A short distance down Hwy 30, we also found a sign about this scenic byway and have posted a photo of it as well.
The Fossil Beds historical marker reads as follows: "Fossil bones of zebras, beaver, otter, pelicans and other water birds are found in sediments left from a 3,400,000 year old pond on the bluff across the river. Lava flows, pouring out over the plains on this side, met and dammed up sedimentary deposits washed in on the other side, making lakes and swamps. Here the river divides these two important geologic settings, formed at a time when the climate was wetter, and the plains were tree dotted grasslands where zebra-like horses used to graze."
From the
National Scenic Byways Program website: "Driving through the Snake River Canyon on US 30 between Hagerman and Twin Falls, it's easy to see how the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway got its name. An abundance of natural springs gush from the steep canyon walls and cascade into the river below. The water source is the Snake River Plains Aquifer, one of the largest groundwater systems in the world. It creeps through an area of several thousand square miles under southern Idaho's porous volcanic rock before emerging from the springs in the cliffs. Today, hydroelectric projects divert some of the water. That?s why you won?t see literally a "Thousand Springs." However, it is still an impressive sight."
From the
Idaho's Scenic Byways website:
Location: Begins at Interstate 84 near Bliss and follows U.S. 30 southeast through Twin Falls to Idaho 50, then north on Idaho 50 to I-84. Also U.S. 93 from Twin Falls north to I-84.
Length: 67.8 miles. Allow 1.5 hours.
Roadway: U.S. 30 and Idaho 50 are two-lane roads with some passing lanes.
When to see it: Year around. The Hagerman Valley is known for its very mild winters. The best time to see Shoshone Falls and Twin Falls is in early spring.
Special attractions: Malad Gorge; Billingsley Creek; Box Canyon, Niagara Springs & Crystal Springs Lake State Parks; Hagerman Valley; Snake River; Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument; Thousand Springs; National & State Fish Hatcheries & Wildlife Management Areas; Hot Springs, Museums; Fish, Waterfowl & Bird viewing; Herrett Planetarium; Shoshone Falls & Twin Falls.
Camping: Many private campgrounds along entire route.
Services: Full services in Bliss, Hagerman, Buhl, Kimberly, Twin Falls; partial services in Filer; rest areas south of Hagerman and at the junction of U.S. 93 and I-84.