images southern idaho: 2012
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Twin Falls and the South-central Idaho area are not for couch potatoes. The diverse outdoor recreation opportunities range from mountains to hot springs, state parks to national forests, and just about everything in between. Daredevils come to BASE jump into the Snake River Canyon, while whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking and biking are just a few of the activities enjoyed by residents in the region that invented the staycation. Twin Falls also boasts a thriving agriculture-based economy, represented by both global corporations and small family farms, along with a well-supported school district and community college.TRANSCRIPT
sponsored by the twin Falls area Chamber oF CommerCe
2012 | imagessouthernidaho.Com
southern idaho
®
i’m ready to order Iconic eateries delight diners
heaVens to bessie Dairy industry remains a cash cow
take a Flying leapBridge BASE jumping draws tourists from afar
2012 edition | Volume 7
southern idaho
®
contents
Features
14 take a Flying leapBridge BASE jumping draws tourists from afar
18 beautiFul on the outsideResidents enjoy area’s tourism destinations
24 i’m ready to orderIconic eateries delight diners
28 FaCe FaCtsOperation Facelift beautifies buildings, boosts pride
38 heaVens to bessieDairy industry remains a cash cow
14
28 Inside:Southern Idaho Tourism Special Section
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50
45 41
53
on the CoVer Photo by Todd Bennett BASE jumping from the Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls
departments
10 almanac
31 image gallery
41 biz briefs
42 Chamber report
43 economic profile
45 local Flavor
46 arts & Culture
48 sports & recreation
51 health & wellness
53 education
55 Community profile
56 through the lens
2012 edition | Volume 7
southern idaho
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sponsored by the twin Falls area Chamber oF CommerCe
2012 | imagessouthernidaho.Com
southern idaho
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i’m ready to order Iconic eateries delight diners
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Ever bird-watch or play disc golf at Lake Walcott State Park? There are also hiking opportunities
at Craters of the Moon, along with snow sledding at Gooding County Snow Park, plus hunting in Jerome and at other top-notch hunting areas.
Oh, and City of Rocks National Reserve offers rock climbing in the warmer weather and cross country skiing when cold.
Residents of the Magic Valley and Southern Idaho are lucky to have daily access to an abundance of recreational amenities that are
normally promoted as tourism destinations. For example, locals can pretty much fish year round at Thousand Springs State Park, which is also becoming a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts from throughout the United States.
A 64-Pound CarpKelton Hatch with the Idaho
Department of Fish and Game says the fishing in Southern Idaho was amazing in 2011 – including a record rainbow trout of 34 pounds caught at American Falls Reservoir, along with a carp weighing more
than 64 pounds snagged at C.J. Strike Reservoir – and he predicts that local fishing will be even better in 2012.
“Magic Valley also boasts some of the best walleye fishing in the country, and it’s not uncommon to see catches of 18-pound walleyes pulled out of both Oakley Reservoir south of Burley, and Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir south of Twin Falls,” he says.
Look, There’s an ElkHatch says the same kind
of good results are available to
RESIDENTS ENJOY AREA’S TOURISM DESTINATIONS
BEAUTIFUL
Visitors have a picture taken at Shoshone Falls. PHOTO BY TODD BENNETT
On the
STORY BY KEVIN LITWIN
OUTSIDE
IMAGESSOUTHERNIDAHO.COM 19 IMAGESSOUTHERNIDAHO.COM 19 18 SOUTHERN IDAHO
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Healthcare for the Entire Family
Welcome to Southern IdahoAn IntroDuctIon to thE ArEA’S pEoplE, plAcES AnD EvEntS
Almanac
Walking for Fitness
The fitness trail at the
college of Southern Idaho is
being revamped as the school’s
recreation department replaces
outdated machinery with the latest
and greatest sports science has to
offer. The college has had a trail
that crosses part of its campus
for about 20 years. This trail
features exercise stations that
enable passers-by to get in a few
repetitions at their leisure. As a
whole, the trail can function as a
circuit exercise course for exercise
buffs. unfortunately, the outdated
wooden machinery is worn out.
Funded by donations, grants
and proceeds from fundraisers,
cSI’s recreation department
has begun a campaign to replace
the outmoded stations with
high-tech machines. Thus far,
two new stations, using products
from PlayWorld’s Lifetrail and
Energi lines, have been installed.
These new machines, with variable
levels of resistance, offer fitness
opportunities for everyone.
Going Over the EdgeShoshone Falls is an awe-inspiring waterfall on the Snake
River about 5 miles east of the city of Twin Falls. Shoshone
Falls is notable both for its natural beauty and for the fact that it
stands 45 feet taller than niagara Falls at 212 feet high. Shoshone
Falls has existed since at least the last ice age, and the water that
traverses it is critical to crop irrigation in nearby communities. It is
best to visit the falls in the spring and early summer months
because that is when the water flows at its highest levels. To
accommodate visitors, the city of Twin Falls owns and operates a
park overlooking the falls. Guests are invited to visit the falls to
enjoy all the recreational activities it has to offer, including hiking,
fishing and swimming, to name a few.
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Building Blocks of LifeAgriculture has become a major way of life in
Southern Idaho, but that was not always the case.
For more than a century, canals drawing from the
Snake River, as well as return flows from Deep creek
and cedar Draw, have brought life to the area in and
around Twin Falls. Born of the 1894 carey Act, which
allowed the setting aside of federal land for private
investors, the irrigation system has been operated by
the Twin Falls canal company since 1909. These canals
have provided a consistent supply of water to Southern
Idaho’s thriving agricultural sector as well as its
municipal areas.
FastFactsn twin Falls county was named for the falls of the Snake river. the surrounding area is known as the magic valley.
n the national pioneer hall of Fame in Burley features a garden and museum.
n the gooding Basque cultural center serves a multi-course Basque supper the first Friday of each month.
n the entire community of oakley is listed on the national register of historic places. Founded in 1878, the city today has the most historic homes per capita in the u.S.
n twin Falls has been named one of the nation’s top 10 places to Smooch by livability.com.
population (2010 estimate)Cities:Twin Falls: 44,125; Jerome: 10,890;
Burley: 10,345; hailey: 7,960; Rupert:
5,554; Buhl: 4,122; Gooding: 3,567;
kimberly: 3,264; heyburn: 3,089;
Wendell: 2,782; Filer: 2,508; Shoshone:
1,461; Paul: 1,169; hansen: 1,144;
hagerman: 872; Oakley: 763;
hazelton: 753; minidoka: 112
Counties:Twin Falls: 77,230; cassia: 22,952;
Jerome: 22,374; Blaine: 21,376;
minidoka: 20,069; Gooding: 15,464;
Lincoln: 5,208
loCationThe largest city in south-central
Idaho, Twin Falls is about 30 miles
north of the Idaho-nevada state line
and roughly midway between Boise
and Pocatello.
For more inFormationTwin Falls Area
chamber of commerce
858 Blue Lakes Blvd. n.
Twin Falls, ID 83301
Phone: (208) 733-3974
Fax: (208) 733-9216 www.twinfallschamber.com
southernIdahoataglance
What’sonline
Minidoka
Buhl
Gooding
Hagerman
Burley
Jerome
Rupert
NEVADA UTAH
to Hailey to Sun ValleyVall
Jackpot
Twin Falls
Albion
Heyburn
2847
26
93
93
26
30
30
48
75
8177
27
25
2484
84
84
86
CASSIA
GGOOODINGO G
JEROMEJE
DOKAMINI
TWIN FALLSA
LINCOLNLI Southern Idaho
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Going GreenIdaho has officially joined the green movement with a plant in
Jerome built and operated by hilex Poly, a South carolina-based
plastic bag manufacturer and operator of the world’s largest
plastic bag recycling plant. The Jerome recycling plant tackles
real problems, since used plastic bags permeate landfills and are
a common part of everyday life. The plant and bag drop-off sites
at major grocery stores throughout the region help reduce both
the pollution from used plastic bags and the cost of new plastic
bags. To ensure that nothing is wasted, hilex has partnered with
Solo cup co., another major plastics manufacturer with a plant
in Twin Falls, to capture and recycle Solo’s leftover plastic.
camping at castle Rockcouched in Big cove, castle Rocks State Park is located 2 miles
northwest of Almo in southern cassia county. castle Rocks is a new
park to Idaho that features massive granite spires. These spires offer
outstanding rock climbing, rivaling nearby city of Rocks national
Reserve. The natural beauty of the castle Rocks region offers plenty
of other recreational activities for those who are not quite so bold,
including hiking, horseback riding and picnicking. castle Rocks is also
well known for its wildlife. visitors come to watch the park’s numerous
varieties of birds, including the common snipe, the sandhill crane and
the sage grouse.
cars and camaraderieEach August, Jerome residents turn out to see
Joe mama’s car Show, which is put on by the magic
valley Early Iron car club. With motorcycles, custom
trucks, show cars and race cars, this show has it all.
In 2011, even the marvel comic book character
Ironman made an appearance. Drawing cars from
at least nine states, this event continues to grow in
popularity. As a result, each year brings increasingly
more impressive rides. The main attraction for 2011
was the world’s fastest 1957 chevrolet, as well as
a top-fuel dragster.
Losing Weight, Gaining cash
According to u.S. obesity
reports, Americans as a
society need to lose weight.
unfortunately, shedding the
pounds is often difficult in this
age of hectic schedules, fast
food temptations and the lure
of constant entertainment from
the comfort of a couch. To
make cutting calories more
tempting, kurt’s Pharmacy in
Twin Falls hosts an annual
weight-loss contest, in which
the top three people who lose
the greatest percentages of
body weight share a $10,000
prize. The 2011 first-place
winner, a man named Bear
Bangs, shed an impressive 112.5
pounds, down from his starting
weight of 295.5 pounds.
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Usually if someone is about to jump off a bridge, law enforcement is called to talk them out of it. In the Magic Valley, sometimes those officials are the ones doing the jumping.
Since opening Tandem BASE, a parachuting operation that sends instructors paired with students off the Perrine Bridge, owner Mark Kissner and his team have seen a steady stream of locals and visitors lining up to hop off the side of a perfectly good structure and soar to the ground below.
The bridge has long been a popular jumping spot, but Tandem BASE marks the first time that a company has been set up to offer it as a regular outing. The 486-foot drop to the floor of the Snake River Canyon is breathtaking in many ways, and both experts and novices alike flock to the area to avail themselves of the opportunity, Kissner says.
tandem jumpers like accessibility“People always like to do it, so we thought there would be enough interest
for regular jumps,” he says. “Since we opened a year ago, we’ve seen a lot of people who come through the area stop to try it, so we’re kind of a tourist attraction now, which we are pleased about.”
Everyone from Twin Falls octogenarian Lena Thomas to Sheriff Doug McFall of Jerome has jumped, and they’ve all got a story to tell. For McFall, whose parachuting days go back to a stint at Fort Campbell in 1977, this was one more way to get from sky to earth in a novel fashion.
Year round, people come from all over the world to jump from the only bridge in the united States that doesn’t require a permit.
FliersHigh
STORy By joe morris | PhOTOGRAPhy By todd bennett
tandem jumping operation brings tourists, loCals to perrine bridge
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“I had some guys say they had three rigs packed and ready to go, and there were only two of them, so it seemed like a good idea at that time,” McFall says. “We had a high school class reunion, and a few of them did the tandem jump. If you’re trained, you can do it alone, and if not, you can work with an instructor and ride down with them, so they really do have something for everybody and every skill level.”
activity provides economic-development boostAll this f lying about is good for tourism, adds Shawn Barigar,
president and CEO of the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.“BASE jumping is an extreme sport that has typically only been
available for trained athletes. Tandem BASE expands the thrill-seeking opportunities to a much larger audience, allowing the general public to participate in the sport under the trained supervision of the Tandem BASE operators,” Barigar says.
“This new activity is just one more item to add to the itinerary on a visit to Southern Idaho. And we’re the only place in the world where one can take part in this exciting activity!”
From rock climbing at the City of Rocks to whitewater rafting on the Snake River, Twin Falls is the most death-defying city in the country, Barigar adds, and this is just one more way for people to live on the edge.
“With Tandem BASE, there’s no experience required – just that thrill-seeking mindset and the courage to step off that ledge with the Tandem BASE operator.”
left: tandem BASE offers the sport to inexperienced jumpers under the supervision of trained instructors.
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Ever bird-watch or play disc golf at Lake Walcott State Park? There are also hiking opportunities
at Craters of the Moon, along with snow sledding at Gooding County Snow Park, plus hunting in Jerome and at other top-notch hunting areas.
Oh, and City of Rocks National Reserve offers rock climbing in the warmer weather and cross country skiing when cold.
Residents of the Magic Valley and Southern Idaho are lucky to have daily access to an abundance of recreational amenities that are
normally promoted as tourism destinations. For example, locals can pretty much fish year round at Thousand Springs State Park, which is also becoming a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts from throughout the United States.
a 64-pound CarpKelton Hatch with the Idaho
Department of Fish and Game says the fishing in Southern Idaho was amazing in 2011 – including a record rainbow trout of 34 pounds caught at American Falls Reservoir, along with a carp weighing more
than 64 pounds snagged at C.J. Strike Reservoir – and he predicts that local fishing will be even better in 2012.
“Magic Valley also boasts some of the best walleye fishing in the country, and it’s not uncommon to see catches of 18-pound walleyes pulled out of both Oakley Reservoir south of Burley, and Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir south of Twin Falls,” he says.
look, there’s an elkHatch says the same kind
of good results are available to
residents enjoy area’s tourism destinations
BEAutIFul
visitors have a picture taken at Shoshone Falls. PhOTO By TODD BEnnETT
On the
STORy By keVin litwin
outSIDE
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From left: Walking along the canyon rim trail; participants in the rim2rim roadrace make their way from the bottom of the Snake river canyon to the top, across the perrine Bridge and back down to the bottom.
hunters, with elk and antelope in abundant supply, plus the Hagerman Valley provides some of the best waterfowl habitat in the entire Northwest.
“This region is home to natural marvels such as the Snake River, Thousand Springs and Shoshone Falls, along with a vast desert land mass,” Hatch says. “There are ample hunting, angling and other adventure opportunities to satisfy anyone who enjoys the outdoors.”
Meanwhile, outdoor adventurers can also enjoy biking, walking and hiking at Dierkes Lake Park, and
there are numerous biking and walking trails throughout the scenic Snake River Canyon near Perrine Bridge. The bridge itself has become an international destination for bungee jumpers and parachute BASE jumpers.
“If you are into running like our running club is, there aren’t many nicer places to train in the world than the Snake River Canyon,” says Bill Greene, coordinator of Team Weenie Running Club out of Twin Falls. “We started our club in 2001 with 12 local members and today there are 240, and we meet
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every Saturday morning to train in the canyon.”
snake river Canyon marathon?
Greene says Team Weenie – whose unusual name is derived from the Independent Meat Company packing plant in Twin Falls where many of the runners are employed – even has a long-term plan to link all the canyon trails together and eventually stage a marathon.
“Can you imagine running a marathon through the Snake River Canyon?” Greene says. “What an
incredible experience that would be.”He also points out that the
unusual natural landscape of Southern Idaho includes its elevation of 3,800 feet, which can be advantageous to competitive runners and bicyclists.
“A lot of people don’t know that we have such a high elevation, so if our club members go to a road race in sea-level cities like Portland, Seattle or San Francisco, we do well because we’ve trained in the altitude,” he says. “Southern Idaho has so much to offer anyone who loves the outdoors. Nature has been very kind to us.”
left: Fishing at Sawtooth national Forest above: the Snake river in twin FallsBR
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nn
ET
Tsnakerivercanyon
1974Year Evel Knievel unsuccessfully attempted to jump the canyon
5milesDistance of Shoshone Falls from Perrine Bridge in the canyon
500feetDepth of canyon in some places
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From family-owned cafés to sophisticated restaurants where nationally known chefs hold court, something delicious is cooking in the Magic Valley.
breakfast is bigReady for bacon and eggs before heading to work,
or looking for a special Sunday brunch? Try the Buffalo Café in Twin Falls, where the house specialty, Buffalo Chip Skillet, is a plate of fried potatoes, chiles, tomato, bacon, sour cream and Cheddar cheese.
And don’t miss the Train Wreck at the landmark Depot Grill in Twin Falls. Think you can demolish 4.5 pounds of pancakes, eggs and sausage in less than 30 minutes?
“It’s a kind of man-versus-food challenge,” says Steve Soran, co-owner of the Depot Grill, which serves round-the-clock, seven days a week. “We’ve had about 60 people try it, and two have finished.”
lunchtime is lovelyFor lunch, locals head to Stevo’s in Heyburn for
burgers, steaks and their special sauce for French fries. Shoshone’s Snack Bar boasts burgers – try the ham-layered Baby Hog Burger – and “the world’s largest ice cream cone,” a staggering tower of soft-serve goodness. La Campesina Market and Restaurant in Jerome offers Mexican specialties in generous portions at nice prices.
dinner’s deliciousDinner brings spectacular views of the Snake River
Canyon at the new Elevation 486 in the Twin Falls Center for the Arts building. The upscale restaurant specializes in classic meat and seafood dishes, “Food and Spirits for the New West.” Another breathtaking canyon view comes with dinner at the Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center in Twin Falls, where casually elegant cuisine features steaks, salads and pasta. Cedar Plank Salmon with lemon rice pilaf is a favorite.
southern idaho’s iConiC eateries delight diners at breakFast, lunCh and dinner
STORy By laura hill | PhOTOGRAPhy By todd bennett
A couple enjoys an intimate dinner at cucina gemelli in twin Falls.
MORE THANA MEAL
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 25
The Snake River Grill in Hagerman is popular for weekly game dinners, prepared by Chef Kirt Martin, and its extensive wine list. Henry’s at the Drift Inn in Rupert serves lunch and dinner in a charming small-town setting in a historic building. Try the Cajun Chicken Pasta. And for hearty steaks, Pioneer Pudding – a traditional bread pudding – and Old West ambiance, head for the Almo Outpost.
southern idaho Food scene is bloomingLynn Sheehan and Matt VanderNoot, partners in
Twin Falls’ Cucina Gemelli, are prime examples of how the local food scene is blooming. Cucina Gemelli, which opened in January 2011, has quickly become one of the area’s more popular dining spots. Chef Sheehan’s focus is on locally sourced ingredients, from meat and vegetables
to berries and butter, prepared simply but elegantly.“We are an unusual experience here and people are
seeking it out,” says Sheehan, a celebrated California chef before she moved to Idaho. “We are on the early crest of a wave here in Idaho, and we are happy to be putting fresh local f lavors on people’s plates.”
Sheehan, whose lunches and dinners include expertly prepared Italian classics, as well as more adventurous fare, believes local diners are becoming more discriminating.
“People are looking for something not frozen and shipped here on a truck. They want to know that their food is healthy and clean, and they want to support their local economy,” she says. “There is a really strong, burgeoning movement toward producing and purchasing locally here in Idaho.”
above: the historic Depot grill in twin Falls is home to the train Wreck, a challenge in which diners are given 30 minutes to down six pancakes, four eggs and a pound of sausage.
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 27 26 SouthErn IDAho
Clockwise from top left: people dine on the patio at Elevation 486 in twin Falls; the Snack Bar in Shoshone offers what it calls the world’s largest ice cream cone; lemon budino with blueberries from cucina gemelli in twin Falls
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It’s not easy being a small town in need of new business, which takes money and manpower to attract. The
solution: Operation Facelift, a unique downtown revitalization program that was low cost, high energy and widespread in its success in boosting 11 Southern Idaho communities.
For five days, from June 14-18, 2011, residents of Castleford, Burley, Filer, Glenns Ferry, Gooding, Heyburn, Jerome, Kimberly, Paul, Rupert and Twin Falls swept, painted, planted, washed and renovated their communities in an effort to bring new life
and new business to town.“Our objective was to provide
a region-wide project that would help improve downtown areas, build community pride and encourage downtown economic activity,” says Jan Rogers, executive director of the Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization (SIEDO), which launched Operation Facelift with Southern Idaho Rural Development.
The project was funded by SIEDO and the Idaho National Laboratory. Each community was given $1,000 seed money, and expected to raise any additional funds needed. More than 200
volunteers across the region participated in the project. Operation Facelift was born at a SIEDO board meeting in March 2011. Communities were approached to participate and identified projects, which varied widely. With an exuberant logo and the motto, “New Look. New Attitude. New Business.”, volunteers went to work.
Cleanup projects Vary widely
In Castleford, a town of about 400 people, volunteers painted four different properties, including the shabby King of Hearts bar.
STORy By laura hill | PhOTOGRAPhy By todd bennett
Strolling along main Street in downtown twin Falls
operation FaCeliFt beautiFiesbuildings, boosts pride
FaceFacts
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“It looked like it was about to fall down,” says Larry Hall, director of Southern Idaho Rural Development, who captained the project with Rogers. “Volunteers stripped off some stuff, stained the building, painted the little grocery across the street, and then cleaned up the whole town, filling up three dumpsters. This was the little town that could.”
Knutson’s Kustom Kutting, a meat-cutting shop, got some TLC in Filer, while Glenns Ferry volunteers painted, washed windows, cleaned up storefronts and sprayed the streets. In Burley, Pay Day Loans was given a pretty new face.
Heyburn gussied up its roller skate park, and in Gooding, Mayor Duke Morton rallied the community to improve an old theater building and freshen up a laundry.
“When you drive through Kimberly now, it is just not the same place it was,” Hall says. “El Cazadore, right on the main intersection, became a new place when it was painted a bright rust color.”
Firefighters, police and city council members were among those in Jerome who beautified five buildings downtown. In Paul, the owner of a repainted restaurant was inspired to paint the interior as well. Rupert saw two old buildings
painted, with new signage and trim.And in Twin Falls, an empty
building that once housed a soda fountain and a shoe store was given new life when an old overhang and shabby signage were removed and a new paint job provided. Soon after Operation Facelift, the building was leased to a new tenant, a party apparel shop. Similar economic development results are expected over the next year.
“People in the towns where it has been done in a significant way are just stoked, excited about what is going on,” Hall says. “People are sharing and saying, ‘I want to be part of this next year.’”
thegatheringplace
This family-owned and -operated quilt shop in Rupert is housed on the town square in a historic building that was home to an Idaho clothing chain since 1912. The Gathering Place opened in 1998 and today has more than 10,500 square feet of fabric, books, patterns, notions and samples.
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indoor funWhether you’re looking for arts and entertainment or rest
and relaxation, Southern Idaho offers plenty to enjoy inside during the winter season.
CSi BaSketBallFind plenty of action in Twin Falls during the College of
Southern Idaho’s basketball season. “CSI men’s and women’s basketball is up tempo and exciting,” says athletic director
Joel Bate. “The cheerleaders, dance team and halftime activities give this a ‘big-time’ college atmosphere feel, and the action on the court is as good as it gets.” So good, in fact, that the men’s team won the NJCAA National Championship in 2011. “Many of CSI’s players will go on to attend very high level basketball programs around the country,” Bate adds. “For entertainment value, a ticket to a
CSI basketball game is more than worth the money.” Both Golden Eagles basketball teams have seasons from November through March.
More info: athletics.csi.com
natural Hot SPringSSoak the winter out of your bones at one of the region’s
naturally occurring geothermal hot springs. At Miracle Hot Springs in Buhl, relax in the private hot pools followed by a soothing massage. Spend the night in one of the heated camping domes, and check out the live alligators (never fear – they have their own pool). Find additional hot springs at 1000 Springs Resort in Hagerman. Both places offer RV accommodations and event spaces.
More info: Miracle Hot Springs, (208) 543-6002, mhsprings.com; 1000 Springs Resort, (208) 837-4987, 1000springsresort.com
artS on tourExperience a lively musical show during the Arts on Tour
concert series, a partnership between CSI and the Magic Valley Arts Council celebrating its 24th year in 2012. Each of the concerts, which include Celtic, jazz, brass and Creole-folk performances, take place in the CSI Fine Arts Auditorium.
More info: Camille Barigar, (208) 732-6288, artsontour.csi.edu
Community ConCertSEnjoy more music in the Mini-Cassia area during its
annual community concerts. Held at the King Fine Arts Center in Burley, more than 800 season tickets are sold each year, and visitors can purchase individual tickets for just $20. Shows have included a variety of ensembles, including a number of Grammy-nominated artists.
More info: Susan Tuft, (208) 678-1798, sd151.k12.id.us/community/Concerts07/con_index.htm
Holiday HaPPeningS‘Tis the season to attend festive community events.
There’s no more quintessential Christmas play than The Nutcracker, and this Tchaikovsky classic will be performed by the Eugene Ballet at the CSI Fine Arts Auditorium on Dec. 12. Get in the holiday spirit at the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on the Friday in December in Fairfield, which coincides with the annual chili cook-off, or listen to your favorite Christmas carols at Howells Opera House in Oakley during the community choir’s Christmas concert.
More info: visitsouthidaho.com
Winter WonderlandFrom scenic snowscapes to indoor fun, activities abound this time of year
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get out and PlayEven in the heart of winter, the weather outside is
delightful if you’re into snow sports. From skiing to boarding, tubing to snowshoeing, the region’s plentiful resorts and recreation areas will keep you moving.
Soldier mountain This skiing and boarding destination, located 12 miles
north of Fairfield in Sawtooth National Forest, has 1,150 acres of skiable terrain including more than 15 runs as well as glades, bowls and tree skiing. “Lines are short, prices are reasonable and the people are friendly,” says Kathy Mennenga, a board member of Southern Idaho Tourism and Camas County Chamber of Commerce member.
More info: soldiermountain.com, (208) 764-2526
Pomerelle mountain reSortAlso in Sawtooth National Forest, this ski resort has 24
slopes, two terrain parks and a vertical drop of 1,000 feet. Located 12 miles from Albion, Pomerelle opens early in the season and gets an average annual snowfall of 500 inches.
More info: pomerelle.com, (208) 673-5599 (resort), (208) 673-5555 (24-hour snow line)
magiC mountainLocated near Hansen in the southern part of Sawtooth
National Forest, this resort offers skiing and boarding, along with a hill for snow tubing. Beginners can attend Magic Mountain’s ski school, while more advanced skiers can take advantage of the more difficult and expert slopes, which make up a majority of the 120 acres of skiable terrain.
More info: magicmountainresort.com, (208) 736-7669
Sun Valley Don’t forget that Southern Idaho is the gateway to the
world-famous Sun Valley. This winter paradise draws skiers, boarders, tubers and snowshoers, and the resort is considered a pioneer in the field of heli skiing, a sport in which skiers are dropped from a helicopter to zoom down the slopes.
CraterS of tHe moon Snowshoe or cross-country ski through the lava fields of
this national monument and preserve. “The black and white lava terrain through which the 7-mile snow trail traverses is unlike any other,” says Ted Stout, chief of interpretation and education at Craters of the Moon. And you can’t beat the price – it’s free.
More info: nps.gov/crmo, (208) 527-1335
City of roCkS and CaStle roCkS
Stay at the Lodge at Castle Rocks Ranch within Castle Rock’s State Park and adjacent to City of Rocks National Reserve, and discover the vast winter activities, including hunting opportunities, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-climbing. “Deep snows may cover the high elevations, but access to the center of the reserve is kept open, as well as full access to Castle Rocks State Park,” says Wallace Keck, superintendent and park manager. “Snowmobiling is also permitted along the snow-covered county roads and up into the Sawtooth National Forest.”
More info: nps.gov/ciro, (208) 824-5910
Bird-WatCHingFor a break from all the extreme winter sports, grab your
binoculars and settle down for some quiet bird-watching at one of the state parks. A large number of migratory and stay-around birds frequent Ritter Island at Thousand Springs State Park in Hagerman and Lake Walcott State Park in Rupert, which is part of the Minidoka Wildlife Refuge.
More info: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov, (208) 837-4505 (Thousand Springs); (208) 436-1258 (Lake Walcott)
This special section is published for Southern Idaho Tourism by Journal Communications Inc.
For more information, contact: Southern Idaho Tourism • P.O. Box 5155 • Twin Falls, ID 83303-5155
Phone: (800) 255-8946 • www.visitsouthidaho.com
©Copyright 2011 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080.
All rights reserved. No portion of this special advertising section may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.
On the cover: Rafters on the Snake River • Photo by Todd Bennett
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SHoSHone fallSThe Snake River winds along for more than 1,000 miles,
but Twin Falls is home to one of its star attractions. The 212-foot-tall Shoshone Falls are even higher than Niagara Falls. The flow depends upon the melt of the winter snow, so spring and early summer is the best time to view these magnificent waterfalls. As part of the Dierkes Lake Complex, visitors can find trails for hiking, areas perfect for a picnic, playgrounds and a scenic overlook to take in a view to remember.
More info: tfid.org, (208) 736-2265
diSC golfPomerelle Ski Resort is a big draw in the
winter, but its new 18-hole disc golf course attracts visitors even after the snow has melted. Starting at 9,000 feet, the course winds along the mountainside through varied elevation and terrain. The College of Southern Idaho also boasts 18 holes of disc golf. Its course, located on Frontier Avenue on the east side of campus, is open to students and visitors alike. If you don’t have your own discs, rent them from the
campus rec center. An additional Twin Falls course is located at Rock Creek Park.
Visitors to the Rupert area can also find a 21-hole disc golf course at Lake Walcott State Park. Play a round for fun, or enter one of the park’s disc golf tournaments.
More info: Pomerelle, pomerelle.com, (208) 673-5599; CSI Recreation Center, recreation.csi.edu, (208) 733-9554 ext. 3477; Rock Creek Park, twinfallscounty.org, (208) 734-9491; Lake Walcott, parksandrecreation.idaho.gov, (208) 436-1258
lake WalCottCatch a glimpse of a white pelican or a double-crested
coramom, to name just two of the birds whose spring breeding areas are located in this state park, which is part of the larger Minidoka Wildlife Refuge. “The park itself is a good viewing area for many variations of song birds,” says Trapper Richardson, park manager. “It just depends what
time of year it is for one bird or another.” In addition to the aforementioned disc golf, Lake Walcott also provides areas for hiking, fishing and riding ATVs, dirt bikes and 4x4 SUVs, along with campsites and RV accommodations.
More info: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov, (208) 436-1258
Centennial marSHBird-watchers will also enjoy the wetlands near Fairfield,
which draws thousands of waterfowl, shore birds and even raptors. Access to the 3,100-acre Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area is free of charge, and in late spring, the marsh will be brimming with birds amidst the beautiful purple camas lilies. These flowers are celebrated during Camas Lily Days, held the first weekend of June.
More info: fishandgame.idaho.gov, (208) 764-3202
Artists from all over the region display their paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry and other artwork during Art and Soul of the City: Magic Valley Has Art. More than 1,200 attended the inaugural event last year, in which visitors voted on their favorite pieces exhibited in Twin Falls businesses. The 2012 event is slated for April 27 through May 5.
More info: magicvalleyhasart.com, (208) 421-1311
Spring into actionEnjoy bird-watching, disc golf and nature’s beauty during springtime
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WHiteWater raftingDuring the busy season of July and August, thousands of
visitors cool off by whitewater rafting down the Snake River. High Adventure River Tours help beginners ages 6 and up through the family-friendly Hagerman stretch of the winding river. In addition to the Hagerman section, Idaho Guide Service also offers trips through the Milner and Canyon Springs sections of the Snake. Tour with them, and you’ll get more than just a scenic trip down the river. “We are professional river guides with an advanced knowledge of the river environment and the historical and biological facts that go with that,” explains Olin Gardner of Idaho Guide Service. “We have clients that go with us every year – and some that have come back every year for more than 20 continuous years.”
More info: High Adventure River Tours, highadventurerivertours.net, (800) 286-4123; Idaho Guide Service, idahoguideservice.com, (888) 73-IDAHO
Water SPortSWater-skiing, wake-boarding,
jet-skiing and skimming across the flat waters of the region’s rivers also make for a great summer getaway. Marinas and boat ramps are available along the Snake River at places such as Milner Dam and Murtaugh Lake. The river’s Burley location also attracts boaters in the summer, particularly during the Idaho Regatta in July. The nearby Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir also has a boat ramp. And swimmers can take a dip in one of the region’s
many lakes, such as Lake Cleveland in the Minidoka Ranger District of Sawtooth National Forest. In fact, families love the sandy beaches at Dierkes Lake in Twin Falls, which also allows canoes and kayaks, though no motorized boats.
More info: visitsouthidaho.com
fiSHingThere’s no shortage of prime fishing in Southern Idaho.
In late spring and early summer, reel in rainbow trout and bass at Lake Walcott in the Rupert/Burley area. Salmon Falls Creek and Oakley reservoirs offer some of the best walleye fishing in the West, according to Dave Parrish of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Fly-fish for rainbow trout on the Malad River near Hagerman beginning Memorial Day weekend, or catch rainbow and cutthroat trout from Lake Cleveland beginning in July. Many have good luck casting their lines from boats or f loat tubes at Magic Reservoir north of Shoshone.
“Dierkes Lake, Crystal Lake, Hagerman Wildlife Management Area and Filer Ponds are local fishing holes that are stocked with rainbow trout to provide flat-water, family-oriented, pond-fishing opportunities,” Parrish says. He adds that anglers should always stay up to date by checking the latest fishing rules.
More info: fishandgame.idaho.gov, (208) 324-4359
Raft, ride, bike, hike, climb and more during Southern Idaho’s warm season
Summer Dreams
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Hiking, Biking and CamPingWith so many state parks, a national forest and other
designated areas, your only problem will be trying to narrow down the sites on which to set your sights.
Hikers will revel in the plethora of trails in Castle Rocks, Lake Walcott and Thousand Springs state parks, as well as Craters of the Moon, City of Rocks, Dierkes Lake and Sawtooth National Forest – just to name a few.
“The Sawtooth National Forest is known for its beauty and opportunity from the southern Minidoka Ranger District with its high-desert beauty to the northern reaches of the forest,” says Julie Thomas, public affairs officer. The region is also the gateway to Sawtooth National Recreation Area, which encompasses 250 miles of non-motorized trails and 42 major peaks of more than 10,000 feet.
At Mount Harrison Lookout, located within Sawtooth National Forest near Albion, backpackers can enjoy the gorgeous vistas along longer trails, such as the 26.2-mile Skyline Trail that connects Mt. Harrison to the City of Rocks, and shorter trails, such as the 4.2-mile Marsh Creek Trail, among the locations that double as bike trails.
Places to pitch your tent abound as well, with more than 1,000 campsites at 61 different campgrounds located in Sawtooth National Forest alone, including the Fairfield and Minidoka ranger districts. In fact, as many as 20 venues for sleeping outdoors are plotted on the adventure map on the Visit South Idaho website.
More info: visitsouthidaho.com; fs.usda.gov/Sawtooth, (208) 737-3200
golfHit the links at,a number of Magic Valley golf courses.
Public courses in Twin Falls include the Twin Falls Golf Club and Canyon Springs Golf Course. The private Blue Lakes Country Club is also available for play through reciprocal agreements with other country clubs around the United States, or if you play with a member. In the Mini-Cassia region, tee off at the 18-hole Burley Golf Course or the 9-hole Ponderosa Golf Course, both located in Burley. Jerome’s 93 Golf Ranch boasts the longest course in all of Southern Idaho. Additional country club courses are located in Buhl, Gooding, Jerome and Rupert, as well as a course at Cactus Pete’s Casino in Jackpot, Nev.
More info: Twin Falls, (208) 733-3326; Canyon Springs, canyonspringsgolf.com, (208) 734-7609;
Blue Lakes, bluelakescc.com, (208) 733-2337; Burley, (208) 878-9807; Ponderosa, (208) 679-5730; 93 Golf Ranch, (208) 324-9693; visitsouthidaho.com
roCk ClimBingClimbers the world over come to City of Rocks for the
chance to take on its magnificent monoliths with names like Bread Loaves, Cannibal and Elephant Rock. “These granite faces have excellent holds and climbs of all grades from the novice to the expert,” says Wallace Keck, City of Rocks superintendent. “Some of the hardest climbs in the country can be found here, whether you are sport climbing or bouldering.”
Visitors to the Twin Falls area can also climb the cliffs on the northwest side of Dierkes Lake.
More info: City of Rocks, nps.gov/ciro, (208) 824-5901; Dierkes Lake, tfid.org, (208) 736-2265
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County fairSSmell the funnel cakes, hear the screams of delight from the
midway, experience the excitement of a rodeo – it’s time for Southern Idaho county fairs. The Lincoln County Fair in Shoshone kicks off the season in late July, followed by fairs every week, including the Minidoka County Fair & Rodeo in
Rupert, the Camas County Fair in Fairfield, the Jerome County Fair & Rodeo, the Cassia County Fair in Burley and the Gooding County Fair and Rodeo. Fair season culminates at the end of August into September with the Twin Falls County Fair & Magic Valley Stampede, which draws as many as 90,000 attendees and features daily entertainment such as bands, rodeos and the demolition derby, along with deep-fried fair fare.
More info: Jerome County Fair, jeromecountyfair.com, (208) 324-7209; Gooding County Fair, goodingcounty.org, (208) 934-4529; Twin Falls County, tfcfair.com, (888) 865-4398; idaho-insider.com/fairsinIdaho.html; Minidoka County Fair, (208) 436-9748; Cassia County Fair, cassiacountyfair.com, (208) 678-9150
WinerieS Fall is prime time for wine
tastings, and three wineries call Magic Valley home.
Buhl’s Holesinky Winery opened in 2005, though the syrah, riesling, chardonnay, merlot and muscat grapes were planted four years earlier. “We are a certified organic vineyard and winery,” says owner James Holesinky, who notes the region’s microclimate makes it great for growing grapes. “The grounds here are on the canyon rim, [and we have] gorgeous lawns, gardens and views.”
Cold Springs Winery in Hammet is the brainchild of viticulture specialist Jamie Martin and retirees Bill and Bing Ringert, who now boast a thriving selection of wine grapes including riesling, merlot, sauvignon syrah and viognier. Rounding out the region’s vineyards is Snyder Winery in Buhl, which has a steakhouse in addition to its tasting room and tours.
More info: coldspringswinery.com, (208) 366-7993; holesinsky.com, (208) 543-6940; snyderwinery.com, (208) 543-6938
farmerS marketSLocated at the College of
Southern Idaho, the Twin Falls Farmers Market draws locavores every Saturday from May to October to stock up on locally grown seasonal fruits, veggies and herbs, as well as farm-fresh eggs, cupcakes and other goodies. Other markets in the city include a Friday Night Market (May to September) and the new Lynwood market, a 2011 startup.
The Mini-Cassia Market in Rupert is also open May to October, though some have shorter seasons, such as the West End Senior Center Wednesday Farmers Market (open July to September). From June through October, the Crossoads Farmers Market in Shoshone and the Fairfield Farmers Market are each held on Fridays. From May to September, visit farmers markets in Gooding on Tuesdays.
Hunting and fiSHing“Few areas in the West can match the diversity and quality
of hunting and fishing experiences found in south-central Idaho,” says Dave Parrish of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Hunting opportunities for upland birds, waterfowl and big game can be found throughout Southern Idaho, where large tracts of public land help sportsmen avoid crowds. Chukar, quail, Hungarian partridge, pheasant and sage-grouse seasons typically begin after Oct. 1 and can run through January, except for a one-week sage-grouse season. For ducks and geese, head to the Snake River near Rupert, Wendell and Hagerman beginning in late September. This area is part of a major flyway and wintering area for waterfowl and other migratory birds. Early, general deer archery season opens Aug. 30 and general rifle seasons open Oct. 10 in several hunting units. Controlled or trophy hunts for deer and elk have limited numbers of tags and hunt boundaries, and must be applied for in May.
Through October, fish for trout at Lake Cleveland, just a short walk from the road. Fall also brings rainbow trout and bass to the shallower waters of Lake Walcott, Milner, Oakley, Magic and Salmon Falls Creek reservoirs. For fly-fishing, visit the Malad River near Hagerman, where fish can be kept from Memorial Day weekend until Nov. 30; the rest of the year is catch-and-release only. Rock Creek, just south of Twin Falls, is another fall trout-fishing favorite with gorgeous fall foliage peaking around Oct. 1.
Before heading out, always check the latest information and rules at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website, where you can find hunting and fishing planners for detailed information on locations, and methods to bag your fish or game.
More info: fishandgame.idaho.gov, (208) 324-4359
fall into autumnFair fun, fine wine and wild game fill visitors’ fall calendars
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go Extreme events mean extreme fun in Mini-Cassia, the
area east of Twin Falls. June brings thousands of spectators to Burley’s Idaho Regatta, one of the most popular events on the American Powerboat Association racing circuit. Burley also hosts the Spudman Triathlon, home of the world’s fastest swim course, in July, though athletes begin competing for its coveted entry spots when registration opens in January. This trifecta of swimming, biking and running is followed by the VikingMan Half-Distance Triathlon in September, an event that takes place in Burley and nearby Heyburn.
But there are many more events that are less intense. In July, dancers and performers from around the world converge on the King Arts Center in Burley during the annual Idaho International Dance and Music Festival. Music lovers may also be interested in August’s Snake River Bluegrass Festival, held at Riverside Park in Heyburn. Pioneer Days in Oakley celebrates with a rodeo, barbecue cook-off and more, while bass tournaments, trail rides and a number of other events dot the calendar throughout the year.
PlayDrive along City of Rocks Back Country Byway, a 49-mile
“necklace” around the Albion Mountain Range that begins southeast of Burley in Albion and leads to the City of Rocks National Reserve near Almo. A unique geological area with granite pinnacles and monoliths, City of Rocks offers hiking, birding and snowshoeing, and visitors can also see sections of the historic California Trail. But the rock climbing is what attracts climbers from near and far.
“Climbers from around the world, and especially throughout North America have made the trip to Southern Idaho to experience this world-class climbing resource,” says Wallace Keck, City of Rocks superintendent. “Just the other day, a group of climbers from Georgia were in the visitor center raving about how they simply must come to the ‘City’ every summer to climb a few of the more than 700 routes.”
The family-friendly Pomerelle Mountain Resort also offers recreation at a world-class level, with slopes drawing skiers and boarders to the Albion alpines. In the summer, the Snake River lures water enthusiasts from boaters to anglers.
The historic town of Rupert features a charming town square, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Shops, businesses and restaurants such as Henry’s at the Drift Inn call the square home, but its centerpiece is the recently restored 1920s-era Wilson Theatre, a hub of local arts activities, conventions and community events.
Located near Rupert, Lake Walcott State Park is yet another recreation destination. “Lake Walcott provides world-class bass and trout fishing all seasons of the year,” says park manager Trapper Richardson. This also includes ice-fishing during fall and winter.
For inside fun, dig into regional history at Cassia County Museum in Burley, or at historical museums in Oakley, Albion and Rupert.
StayCamping abounds at the state parks, but at City of Rocks,
visitors can opt for a more unique experience by staying in one of its rentable yurts. These domed tents come equipped with electricity, Wi-Fi, a fireplace and furnishings, and sleep up to six people.
Another out-of-the-ordinary spot for overnight accommodations is Campus Grove at Albion, located just 20 minutes from Pomerelle and 40 minutes from City of Rocks. Once the site of Albion State Normal School, which closed more than 60 years ago, the facility has been remodeled into a state-of-the-art conference and retreat center.
Visitors can also stay at one of several inns in Mini-Cassia, including Almo Inn, a Western-themed hotel in Almo, and Henry’s at the Drift Inn, a boutique-style hotel with newly remodeled suites. Best Western Burley Inn, Budget Inn, and the Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott also offer visitors a good night’s rest in Burley, along with Tops Motel in Heyburn.
eatThe Drift Inn isn’t just a place to spend the night – its
restaurant is a local favorite in its own right. Stop by for lunch on weekdays, or sit down for a dinner of spicy Cajun chicken pasta, finger steaks or prime rib. Almo Inn also houses a popular restaurant, the Outpost Steakhouse. This eatery is known for its ribeye steaks, though it also serves sandwiches and salads. In Burley, the riverfront restaurant Snake River Queen & Dry Dock features both a variety of favorites and lunch and dinner.
At Gossner’s Magic Valley Chalet in Heyburn, visitors can stock up on ice cream, cheese and other items from Gossner’s plant just down the road. Upstairs, the Upper Crust Bakery and Grill serves a variety of dishes complemented by locally made dairy products.
findSpudman Triathlon burleylions.org/spudman.html
Idaho Regatta idahoregatta.org
VikingMan vikingman.org
City of Rocks Back Country Byway southernidahobyways.com
Pomerelle Mountain Resort 961 E. Howell Canyon Rd.
meet mini-CassiaThe East Region rocks at recreation and beyond
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Albion, ID 83311 (208) 673-5599 pomerelle.com
Visitor Center – City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park (208) 824-5901 parksandrecreation.idaho.gov nps.gov/ciro
Lake Walcott State Park (208) 436-1258 parksandrecreation.idaho.gov
Rupert rupert-idaho.com
Almo Inn (208) 824-5500 almocreek.com
Best Western Burley Inn (208) 678-3501
Budget Inn (208) 678-3501
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Mariott (208) 677-5000
Tops Motel (208) 436-4724
Henry’s at the Drift Inn (208) 436-1300 henrysdriftinn.com
The Outpost Steakhouse (208) 824-5577
Snake River Queen & Dry Dock (208) 678-3887
Gossner’s Magic Valley Chalet and Upper Crust Bakery & Grill (208) 679-0971 (208) 679-0972 theuppercrustgrill.com
Mini-Cassia Visitor Center 1177 7th St. • Heyburn, ID 83336 (208) 679-4793 minicassiachamber.com
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go Fun abounds in the Hagerman Valley, which includes the
towns of Hagerman and Buhl. April brings the annual Basque Dinner, a fundraiser celebrating local heritage. Sagebrush Days have livened up Fourth of July festivities in Buhl for more than 75 years. The weekend-long festival includes a fun run, pancake breakfast, fish fry, sidewalk sales and what’s said to be the longest parade in Southern Idaho.
Get dirty at the Castleford Mud Bog, held in Castleford over a weekend in mid-July. The event coincides with the Castleford Motor Jamboree, so there will be plenty of shiny cars in addition to the mud drags.
In September, celebrate with local food and wine vendors at the annual Trout Festival, which takes place in Buhl, the Trout Capital of America.
PlayThe Hagerman stretch of the Snake River, which includes
Malad Gorge, is popular among families for rafting, fishing and natural springs. Rafters of all levels can enjoy this section, which ranges from mellow waters perfect for paddling to more adventurous whitewater river rapids.
The river is just part of the vast Thousand Springs State Park, which also includes Ritter Island, Niagara Springs, Billingsley Creek and Crystal Springs Lake. The lake also attracts anglers, as do Hagerman National Fish Hatchery and Idaho Fish and Game Hatchery, which are popular for families fishing for rainbow trout and other species.
On dry land, check out Balanced Rock, a unique geological feature in the Salmon Falls Creek Canyon, or visit the 350-acre Box Canyon State Park, also one of the state’s newest parks. Discover a piece of history at the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. Home to fossils dating to before the last Ice Age, the archaeological site features more than 200 fossils of plants and animals, including some of the earliest appearances of modern flora and fauna.
Operated out of the Hagerman Fossil Beds, nearby Minidoka National Historic Site remembers the former WWII internment camp for Americans of Japanese descent. Today, the site is home to the Nidoto Nai Yoni Memorial, which translates to “let it not happen again.”
StayThe region’s natural hot springs bring thousands to area
resorts for the soothing, high-pH water. 1000 Springs Resort in Hagerman has 17 private indoor Jacuzzis of the mineral water, as well as one large outdoor pool and a kiddie pool. 1000 Springs features 25 campsites, 18 RV sites and two new cabins. At Miracle Hot Springs in Buhl, relax in one of the 21 pools and four outdoor pools, and sleep in one of the camping domes, 10 RV sites or areas for tents.
Hagerman also has several traditional bed-and-breakfasts,
such as Hagerman Valley Inn on Frogs Landing and Billingsley Creek Lodge on Scenic Highway Route 30. At the Oregon Trail Inn in Buhl, use travel club discounts and enjoy a wonderful trail breakfast, featuring locally baked pastries and breads as well as local brew from Hailey Coffee Co.
eatEnjoy a scoop of Cloverleaf Creamery ice cream, knowing
that it was made on a family-owned dairy farm in Buhl. The farm’s retail store sells farm-fresh milk – in glass bottles, no less! – in addition to ice cream flavors ranging from classic vanilla, chocolate and strawberry to the more unique raspberry cheesecake, banana cream pie and potato ice cream.
Also in Buhl, find seasonal milkshake flavors such as huckleberrry, pumpkin and eggnog at McClain’s Arctic Circle, or enjoy homemade soup, sandwiches, salads and coffee drinks at Crowns Cafe and Coffeehouse.
At Jo Joe’s Cafe in Hagerman, get a hearty meal morning, noon or night. Start your day with an omelet or loaded hashbrowns, grab a rodeo burger for lunch, or stick around for grilled pork chops or barbecue chicken pizza for dinner.
The mouthwatering menu at Snake River Grill in Hagerman includes local fish and game cooked by Chef Kirt Martin using French techniques, resulting in entrees such as boneless Idaho rainbow trout to grilled steaks topped with sauteed portabella mushrooms.
Hagerman Valley vineyard Snyder Winery also has an on-site steakhouse open Friday and Saturday evenings.
findHagerman Valley Chamber of Commerce (208) 837-9131 hagermanvalleychamber.com
Buhl Chamber of Commerce (208) 543-6682 buhlchamber.org
Thousand Springs Byway southernidahobyways.com
Thousand Springs State Park (208) 837-4505 parksandrecreation.idaho.gov
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center (208) 837-4793 nps.gov/hafoIdaho
Hagerman National Fish Hatchery (208) 837-4896 fws.gov/hagerman
Hello, Hagerman ValleyHagerman and Buhl destinations make a big splash
S t a y & P l a y i n S o u t h e r n I d a h o
S p e c i a l A d v e r t i s i n g S e c t i o n
Hagerman Wildlife Management Area Idaho Fish and Game Hagerman Hatchery (208) 837-4892 fishandgame.idaho.gov
Miracle Hot Springs (208) 543-6002 mhsprings.com
Hagerman Valley Inn (208) 837-6196 hagermanvalleyinn.com
Oregon Trail Inn (208) 543-8814 oregontrailinn.com
Cloverleaf Creamery (208) 543-4272 cloverleafcreamery.com
McClain’s Arctic Circle (208) 543-5321
Crowns Cafe and Coffeehouse (208) 543-8524
Snyder Winery (208) 543-6938 snyderwinery.com
Snake River Grill (208) 837-6227 snakeriver-grill.com
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goDozens of annual events take place in the North Side,
which includes the communities of Jerome, Gooding, Wendell, Fairfield and Shoshone. Joe Mama’s Car Show in mid-August features more than 700 old, refurbished cars on display in Jerome. It’s followed by the Jerome County Fair & Rodeo, an old-time country fair with no admission fee. “The fair offers something for everyone,” says Jerome Chamber of Commerce Director Jon Melone, who adds that attractions include local bands, pig wrestling, the demolition derby and professional cowboys. Don’t forget about the region’s other fun-filled fairs in Lincoln, Camas and Gooding counties, held in late July and early- to mid-August.
Magic Valley Dairy Days in Wendell – occurring in June Dairy Month, of course – honors the region’s agricultural heritage, while Gooding’s Basque Festival in July celebrates the culture of its early settlers. Summers in Fairfield brings Camas Lily Days the first weekend of June, and music and fireworks in the park for the Fourth of July, while Arts in the Park takes place in Shoshone in mid-July. In nearby Richfield, experience Outlaw Day in June, a community event and parade that has remained virtually unchanged since it began back in 1954.
Play Hunting and fishing opportunities abound on the North
Side; here you can hunt for waterfowl and wild game or catch a variety of trout along the river. Golfers can tee off from within the canyon at Blue Lakes Country Club’s PGA course.
In Lincoln County, cool off from May to September with a visit to Shoshone Ice Caves, which are actually lava tubes that remain 28-33 degrees Fahrenheit even when it’s 100 degrees outside. The area is also home to Mammoth Cave and Natural Museum and the Lincoln County Museum.
Encompassing parts of Lincoln County, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve offers hiking, biking, camping and places to explore in the warm seasons, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Nearby, Gooding County Snow Park also provides a winter wonderland for visitors to ski, snowmobile or snowshoe.
Camas County’s Centennial Marsh is home to abundant wildlife, while Magic Reservoir provides ample opportunities for catching rainbow trout and perch. Anglers can even enjoy ice-fishing here in the winter.
StayIn Jerome, visitors on their way into the wilderness often
choose the Wingate by Wyndham, conveniently located near the intersection of Interstate 84 and U.S. Route 93. Located at the same intersection, the Days Inn provides an added
convenience of corrals for those traveling with their four-legged friends. KOA Campground, also in Jerome, provides RV accommodations.
In Shoshone, stay in comfort at the Mansion on South Greenwood Street. Gooding offers the Get Inn, a college-turned-hotel that also has a greenhouse and nursery on-site. Nearby, the century-old Gooding Hotel Bed and Breakfast is older than the town itself and is now operated by descendants of the city’s founders, who still serve up home-cooked breakfasts in a quaint atmosphere.
eatIn Jerome, La Campesina Mexican Restaurant gives a
south-of-the-border taste, while Smokin’ Cowboy’s BBQ is a hot spot for slow-smoked brisket. The Eagles Nest Cafe in Dietrich serves up diner favorites such as chicken-fried steaks and hot sandwiches accompanied by mashed potatoes and gravy. Other popular Lincoln County restaurants include the Manhattan Cafe in Shoshone, which dates back to 1890, and the Main Street Grill in Richfield. Fairfield offers a variety, including the Sandwiched Inn Deli, the Wrangler Drive-In, the Iron Mountain Inn and Soldier Creek Brewing Co.
Want to bring home something fresh from the farm? The award-winning Ballard Cheese in Gooding produces 1,280 pounds of farmstead cheese each week. “We milk about 60 Jersey cows,” says Stacie Ballad, “and we’re making cheese the old-fashioned way – by hand.” Find the farm’s f lavored cheese curds and a number of varieties ranging from creamy Danish pearl to rich truffle cheddar cheese at retailers throughout the region, or schedule a tour of the farm to learn how cheese is made.
findJerome County Fair (208) 324-7209 jeromecountyfair.com
Gooding County Fair and Gooding Pro Rodeo (208) 934 4529 goodingidaho.org goodingprorodeo.com
Gooding Municipal Airport (208) 934-5934
Gooding Basque Association Cultural Center (208) 308-5051
Joe Mama’s Car Show (208) 308-8941 joemamascarshow.com
go nortH!The North Side boasts family-friendly fun with a variety of festivals
S t a y & P l a y i n S o u t h e r n I d a h o
S p e c i a l A d v e r t i s i n g S e c t i o n
Shoshone Ice Caves (208) 886-2058 (May to September only)
Craters of the Moon National Monument (208) 527-1335 nps.gov/crmo
Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area fishandgame.idaho.gov
Sawtooth Best Western (208) 324-9200
Wingate by Wyndham (208) 644-1200
Twin Falls/Jerome KOA (208) 324-4169
The Historic Gooding Hotel Bed & Breakfast (208) 934-4374 goodinghotelbandb.com
Governors Mansion Inn (208) 886-2858
La Campesina (208) 324-3094
Smokin’ Cowboys BBQ (208) 324-1008 smokincowboys.com
Eagles Nest Cafe (208) 544-2094
Manhattan Cafe (208) 886-2142
Main Street Grill (208) 487-9940
Sandwiched Inn Deli (208) 764-2100
Wrangler Drive-In (208) 764-2580
Iron Mountain Inn (208) 764-2577
Soldier Creek Brewing Co. (208) 764-BREW
Ballard Cheese (208) 934-4972 ballardcheese.com
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goFrom annual festivals to the activities available year round,
there’s always something happening in Twin Falls. As the only bridge in the United States where one can legally parachute without a permit, hundreds of daredevils BASE-jump off Twin Falls’ Perrine Bridge into the depths of the Snake River Canyon some 500 feet below. Each September, the annual Perrine Bridge Festival celebrates this unique attraction while also serving as a fundraiser for children with special medical needs. Other Twin Falls events include farmers markets; outdoor concerts; theatrical performances and concerts held at the College of Southern Idaho; and Art in the Park, a celebration of artists held in the summer for more than 50 years.
PlayTake a hike on the scenic walking trail that winds its way
along the floor of Rock Creek Canyon or the 10-mile Snake River Canyon Rim Trail, an easy way to take in the scenery and wildlife along the spectacular gorge. On the north edge of Twin Falls, the canyon offers golfing, as well as fishing and swimming attractions at Dierkes Lake. Of course, many come just to see the 212-foot-high Shoshone Falls, which is 52 feet higher than Niagara Falls. “It is absolutely beautiful all year round,” says Dennis Bowyer, the city’s parks and recreation director. “Even without high flows, the area is breathtaking. We have the trail that takes you out of the canyon, with a couple of great overlooks of the falls, then the trail takes you to within 200 feet of the famous Evel Knievel jump site.” In fact, Knievel’s 1974 attempt to jump the quarter-mile-wide canyon helped to earn Twin Falls the title of the country’s most death-defying city on Livability.com.
In addition to all of the natural attractions on land and water, visitors to Twin Falls can also enjoy the cosmopolitan nature of the community. “Twin Falls is the retail and services hub of south-central Idaho and northern Nevada, reaching a market of 250,000 people,” says Shawn Barigar, director of the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. Find your favorite retailers at shopping centers and the Magic Valley Mall, or browse the independent shops, antique stores and specialty boutiques of the city’s historic downtown district. Twin Falls also serves as the regional health care hub, home to a new $250 million hospital and medical campus opened by St. Luke’s Magic Valley in 2011.
Other attractions include the new Twin Falls Center for the Arts, a venue operated by the Magic Valley Arts Council that opened on the Snake River Canyon rim in 2010, and the Herrett Center for Arts & Science, a museum and planetarium located on the College of Southern Idaho campus.
StayThe majority of lodging properties are located on the north
end of Blue Lakes Boulevard, with convenient access to
shopping, restaurants and recreation at the Snake River Canyon. Additional places to stay are available along the main thoroughfares into the city. For a complete listing of hotels, visit the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce website at Twinfallschamber.com.
eatA couple of Twin Falls eateries offer dinner with a gorgeous
view. “Canyon Crest Dining & Event Center and Elevation 486 offer the greatest opportunities to experience fantastic cuisine and the natural beauty of the Snake River Canyon,” Barigar says. Canyon Crest’s mouthwatering menu ranges from eggplant lasagna to elk strip loin, while Elevation 486 serves up fire-grilled steelhead trout and a natural-beef porterhouse. Locavores will also love Cucina Gemelli, which sources its ingredients locally for dishes such as deviled duck eggs, cornbread-stuffed tomatoes, and lamb from farms in nearby Shoshone and Carey. This Italian restaurant even offers gluten-free pastas and entrees. And Twin Falls is also home to all your familiar favorites, such as Applebee’s and Chili’s.
findPerrine Bridge Festival perrinebridgefestival.com
Art in the Park (208) 421-1311
Shoshone Falls and Dierkes Lake (208) 736-2265 tfid.org
Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce (208) 733-3974 twinfallschamber.com
Twin Falls Center for the Arts/Magic Valley Arts Council (208) 734-2787 twinfallscenter.org magicvalleyartscouncil.org
The Herrett Center for Arts & Science (208) 732-6655 herrett.csi.edu
Canyon Crest Dining & Event Center (208) 733-9392 canyoncrestdining.com
Elevation 486 (208) 737-0486 elevation486.com
Cucina Gemelli (208) 735-1228 cucinagemellirestaurant.com
Scenic CityBig-city conveniences, world-class recreation in commerce hub of Twin Falls
S t a y & P l a y i n S o u t h e r n I d a h o
S p e c i a l A d v e r t i s i n g S e c t i o n
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Image Gallery
Boer goats graze on grasses and clover at Simon Boers Chevon in Hagerman.
Photo by Todd Bennett
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 31
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32 SouthErn IDAho
Wagons resembling those used by early settlers at the City of Rocks Visitors Center
Photo by Todd Bennett
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ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 33
Top 10Cities toDefy Death
Introducing the Livability.com Top 10 Lists New lists every month | Not your average lists | Not your average website
Twin Fallsmade the list.Top 10 Cities to Defy DeathSee more Top 10 lists at Livability.com.
STILLWATEROklahoma
FAYETTEVILLENorth Carolina
SAVANNAHGeorgia
CORPUS CHRISTITexas
TWIN FALLSIdaho
BENDOregon
GLASGOWKentucky
ROCK SPRINGSWyoming
TRAVERSE CITYMichigan
OGDENUtah
Whitewater rafting on the Snake River
Photo by Todd Bennett
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ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 35
Image Gallery
36 SouthErn IDAho
Walking the Canyon Rim Trail at sunset
Photo by Todd Bennett
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 37
maybe the grass just grows a little greener in Southern Idaho, or it could be all that breathtaking scenery.
Whatever the reason, more than 500,000 dairy cows seem to like it, and as a result, Southern Idaho’s cream has risen to the top when it comes to milk production and processing.
Direct employment from the region’s dairy industry accounts for almost 9,300 jobs, while the state’s 2010 on-farm cash receipts from milk produced on Idaho farms amounted to almost $1.9 billion.
two reasons make idaho topsBob Naerebout, executive director of the Idaho
Dairymen’s Association, credits two reasons for the state’s No. 3 national ranking as a top dairy-producing state.
“High-quality feed is available in this area,” he says. “The two main crops raised for dairy cows are alfalfa and corn silage, and we have those in abundance here. The other is that dairy farmers outside the state began looking for other locations when land in California went to housing. The weather here is ideal for cows.”
Success of the one has caused an explosion of another cash cow: milk processors. The processing side of the industry has grown right along with the raising and milking of dairy cows, Naerebout says. “These are value-added jobs with a lot of employment. We continue to milk the cows, which keeps full employment in the processing plants. About 35,000 jobs in Idaho depend on a healthy dairy industry, and the vast majority of those are in Southern Idaho.”
southern idaho’s dairy industry is a real Cash Cow
HeavensBessIeto
Dairy cows at West point Farms in Wendell PhOTO By TODD BEnnETT
STORy By betsy williams
Business
38 SouthErn IDAho
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 39
Quality, supply and work ethicJan Rogers, executive director of the Southern
Idaho Economic Development Corporation, credits the quality and quantity of the milk and the region’s farmer-based work ethic as reasons for companies like Brewster Cheese, Commercial Creamery, Glanbia Foods and Jerome Cheese Company to locate production facilities in the region.
“The quality of our milk is extraordinary,” Rogers says. “The supply is strong, as we are milking a little more than 25 million pounds of milk a day in Southern Idaho. Our pricing is different in that we are not federally regulated, and our processors negotiate directly with the producers, which gives us an advantage. On top of that, there’s no harder working person than the farmer, and that work ethic runs through our community. Our new businesses are rightfully impressed by the strong work ethic
demonstrated in Southern Idaho.”Excellent transportation arteries, a strong supply
of milk and the wide array of processors also mean that distribution companies like WEL Companies Inc. are becoming part of Southern Idaho’s economic landscape. A national warehousing, transportation and storage company with 14 U.S. facilities, WEL purchased a 120,000-square-foot warehouse in Gooding to retrofit for refrigerated storage in 2011.
Southern Idaho farmers are taking a pro-active approach when it comes to environmental concerns, Naerebout says, as farmers are constructing aerobic digesters and implementing other scientific technologies to reduce the environmental footprint of the region’s dairy farms.
“The dairy industry is extremely important to this area,” Naerebout says. “It is a strong economic engine for Southern Idaho and it will continue to be so.”
Stainless steel milk silos at the Idaho milk products facility in Jerome PhOTO By JEFF ADkInS
40 SouthErn IDAho
reColleCtionsBiz: Gift shopBuzz: You don’t have to go far to find the perfect gift in Burley. Located in a historic building that used to house the local bus depot, Recollections combines historic charm with quirky accessories and accents. The unique gift shop carries items ranging from bath and body products and home furnishings to jewelry and other miscellaneous items. bestlittlegiftshopnow.com
longView FibreBiz: Cardboard box manufacturerBuzz: Celebrating its 41st year in Twin Falls, Longview Fibre has been a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality cardboard boxes since its establishment. The company is a regular contributor to the city’s economy, as well as its way of life.www.longviewfibre.com
CommerCial CreameryBiz: Food manufacturerBuzz: Founded in 1908, Commercial Creamery is a leading manufacturer of specialty food ingredients. The company specializes in spray drying ingredients, including dairy and cheese powders, snack seasonings, flavors, sauce and soup mixes, and modified dairy mixes. Commercial Creamery operates out of two plants, and its Jerome, ID plant has received the highest ratings from the American Institute of Baking for the past few years.www.cheesepowder.com
Biz BriefsBuSInESSES – Both lArgE AnD SmAll – thAt hElp DEFInE
SouthErn IDAho’S EconomIc clImAtE
$1billionAnnual retail sales
$27,814Annual retail sales per capita
$104millionAnnual hotel and food sales
4,525Total number of firms
scorecard business at a glanCe
source: u.s. Census QuickFacts
blue lakes marketplaCe at 5 pointsBiz: Retail centerBuzz: When Southern Idaho residents go to market, they go to Blue Lakes Marketplace. Anchored by Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, the shops are in an ideal location to serve the surrounding areas. Three other spaces – Hair Tech Salon and Spa, Tuxedos Now and Formalicity, make up the rest of the marketplace, though plans are in place to expand.
wright physiCal therapyBiz: Physical therapyBuzz: Wright Physical Therapy takes care of Twin Falls. The therapists, all doctors of physical therapy with advanced orthopedic skills, assist patients of all ages with a wide range of ailments. Founded by Idaho native Bryan Wright, the therapy center focuses on joint, spine and sports-related injuries. www.wrightpt.com
Business
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 41
chamberreportchAmBEr FInAlIzIng nExt FIvE-YEAr plAn
shawn Barigar says the
Twin Falls Area chamber
of commerce has big plans for
the next five years, and most
of them center around helping
small businesses become
more successful.
The president and cEO of
the chamber says all 880 of its
members will be surveyed by
early 2012 and asked for input
regarding what areas the
organization is strong in and what
areas need to be improved. After
that, the chamber will meet one-
on-one with each of the members
to see how their individual
businesses can become more
profitable over the next five years.
“Like all chambers, about 80
percent of our membership is
made up of small businesses,
so they deserve a big part of our
attention,” Barigar says. “Once
the surveys are completed, I will
start scheduling the one-on-one
meetings with all business owners
to find out what improvements
they would specifically like to see.”
since 1905The Twin Falls Area chamber
of commerce has been around
since 1905, first called the Twin
Falls commercial club, and
Barigar says the organization
continues to thrive as an action
agency designed to meet
community needs.
“nearly 900 member
businesses have come together
voluntarily to advance the
commercial, financial, industrial
and civic interests of the Twin
Falls area, and the chamber is the
business voice of the community,”
he says. “We work closely with
several organizations and many
other private and public sectors
to promote job opportunities in
the magic valley.”
leadership by exampleBarigar says that joining the
chamber’s annual magic valley
Adult Leadership group is a good
way to network and market
yourself. The group meets once
a month for 10 months to learn
more about the workings of the
magic valley region.
“One former Leadership
member has lived in the Twin Falls
area for about 25 years and was
still finding out new things about
the community by attending the
monthly sessions,” Barigar says.
“The chamber has a lot of things
happening these days, and more
aspects of our newest five-year
business push will be announced
to our membership once all plans
are finalized.” – Kevin Litwin
6039-TR12260M_TGB_Livability.indd 1 3/22/10 11:40:09 AM 42 SouthErn IDAho ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 43
Business
business ClimateJob creation here has made Twin Falls one of the state’s most
robust economic engines in recent years. Good work prospects
for job seekers and a moderate climate for retirees have helped
keep Twin Falls county’s population on a steady growth.
taxes
6%State Sales tax
6%total Sales tax
1.741%residential property tax
major employers
twin Falls’ largest employers:
Amalgamated Sugar company
clear Springs Foods
college of Southern Idaho
con Agra/Lamb-Weston, Inc.
Glanbia, Inc.
Independent meat
Intermountain Gas
k&T Steel corporation
St. Luke’s magic valley
medical center
inCome
$22,880per capita Income
$45,261Average Annual household Expenditure
transportation
twin Falls Airport
492 Airport Loop
Twin Falls, ID 83301
(208) 733-5215
trans Iv Bus
P.O. Box 1238
Twin Falls, ID 83307
(208) 736-2133
workForCe
75%White collar
25%Blue collar
eduCation
33%Associate Degree
16%Bachelor’s Degree
7%graduate Degree
eConomiC resourCes
twin Falls Area
chamber of commerce
858 Blue Lakes Blvd. n.
Twin Falls, ID 83301
(208) 733-3974
www.twinfallschamber.com
eConomiC proFile
Jerome chamber
of commerce
104 W. main St.
Jerome, ID 83338
(208) 324-2711
www.visitjeromeidaho.com
mini-cassia
chamber of commerce
1177 Seventh St.
heyburn, ID 83336
(208) 679-4793
www.minicassiachamber.com
Southern Idaho Economic
Development organization
P.O. Box 1238
Twin Falls, ID 83303
(208) 324-7408
www.southernidaho.org
twin Falls Economic
Development
P.O. Box 1907
Twin Falls, ID 83303
(208) 735-7240
www.tfid.org
Business plus
P.O. Box 929
Twin Falls, ID 83303
www.business-plus.org
city of twin Falls
321 Second Ave. E.
(208) 735-7281
www.tfid.org
twin Falls county
425 Shoshone St. n.
(208) 733-2499
www.twinfallscounty.org
Idaho Department
of commerce
700 W. State St.
Boise, ID 83720
(208) 334-2470
commerce.idaho.gov
42 SouthErn IDAho ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 43
5 DAYS.250 HOMES.
Glanbia, local contractors and HFH-MV are partnering to build two homes in the Magic Valley
as part of the Home Builders Blitz 2012.
BUILD WITH US! June 4-8, 2012
Share your expertise and help build stronger families, better neighborhoods and brighter
futures in our community.
Call today: (208) 735-1233 or visit our website at
www.habitatmagicvalley.org for more information.
Can you imagine …a world without children?
We Can’t.Call 1-800-996-4100 to help.
www.stjude.org
44 SouthErn IDAho ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 45
Food is serious business
around here, from farming
and processing it to preparing
and serving it. Fittingly, many
local organizations have found
a way to blend Southern Idaho’s
rich resources and culinary
talents with fundraising
opportunities for community
organizations.
rotary’sdeathBychocolate
Take Death By chocolate, a
production of the Rotary club of
Twin Falls usually held at the end
of January. Local chefs square off
in five categories: chocolate cake,
brownie, cookie, candy and
unique dessert. A judge’s panel
selects the top entries, but the
real winners are the attendees,
who get to taste the entries and
then vote for their favorites.
Festival-goers also enjoy a silent
auction, raffle and live music. The
2011 event netted approximately
$28,000, with proceeds
benefiting local charities.
savorsouthernIdaho
held annually, there’s Savor
Southern Idaho, an all-Idaho
evening sponsored by Southern
Idaho Tourism. highlighting the
area’s agricultural heritage, the
evening showcases not only what
to eat and drink, but all the other
unique aspects of the region.
hotaugustBIteoFmagIcvalley
Like complementary flavors in
a favorite dish, two major events
merged in 2011 to become the hot
August Bite of magic valley. Twin
Falls Area chamber of commerce,
which sponsored hot August
night Picnic and Junior club of
magic valley, which sponsored the
Bite of magic valley, joined forces
at Twin Falls city Park to provide
attendees with bigger and better
entertainment – and greater
fundraising for local charities.
The festival included live music,
food, wine and beer vendors
and children’s activities.
epIcureanevenIngEpicurean Evening each
September raises funds for St. Luke’s magic valley health Foundation. The event features a quick cuisine cooking challenge during which competing chefs must showcase an Idaho-grown ingredient in their dishes. In the past, culinary creations have involved trout, potatoes, honey and even alligator. Idaho wines and distilleries also are on hand to supply libations for a wine tasting portion of the evening, which also includes a silent auction. The event is sponsored by Idaho Preferred, a program of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture that works to raise the profile of local food producers.
– Joe Morris
FoodWorthcelebratingFEStIvAlS honor trout, chocolAtE AnD EvErYthIng In BEtWEEn
STAFF PhOTO
Local Flavor
44 SouthErn IDAho ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 45
Arts & culture
in a place where breathtaking
backyard landscapes are
everywhere, it stands to reason
that an inspired arts scene thrives.
magIcvalleyartscouncIl
The magic valley Arts council
works to promote arts and cultural
experiences throughout the
Greater Twin Falls area. It acts as
an umbrella for many different
groups, and is able to help
projects large and small go from
idea to reality.
One such success is the
canyon Rim Public Art Project,
which saw the placement of a
major sculpture at the Perrine
Bridge Trail view Point. Then
there’s the Arts on Tour program,
which features nine performing
arts productions at the college of
Southern Idaho over a season that
runs from September through may.
The council’s other programs
include kids Art in the Park, the
missoula children’s Theater, 2nd
century Photo contest, the Brown
Bag Lectures in conjunction with
the Twin Falls Public Library, the
Summer chalk Walk at the
municipal Band concerts and the
First Friday gallery opening events
that take place every other month,
beginning in February, annually.
herrettcenterForartsandscIence
As if all that wasn’t enough,
there’s the one-stop cultural and
historical extravaganza of the
herrett center for Arts and
Science on the main campus of
the college of Southern Idaho.
The museum’s main purpose
creativeInspirationmAgIc vAllEY vISuAl AnD pErFormIng ArtS orgAnIzAtIonS thrIvE
is education, and it collects,
preserves, interprets and exhibits
anthropological artifacts and
natural history specimens,
focusing on the prehistoric
American continents.
And while the natural history
galleries offer plenty to see, the
herrett also looks to the skies
with the Faulkner Planetarium
and centennial Observatory.
The Faulkner is the largest
planetarium theater in Idaho,
seating 144 people under a
50-foot dome. It has a Digistar II
digital graphics projection system,
one of the most advanced in the
country. The herrett also hosts
special and traveling exhibits
throughout the year, so there’s
always something new to see.
magIcvalleyperFormIngarts
Oakley, ID might be a small
town, but it’s not too small to
house howell’s Opera house.
Built in 1907 by Judge howells,
the Opera house originally
opened as a theater. But thanks
to its impressive acoustics and
large size, the facility only hosted
high-drama plays; thus it was
coined an opera house.
Today, howells Opera house
is run by the Oakley valley Arts
council, and the renovated
building holds plays, musicals
and other performances.
The Junior musical Playhouse
company (a.k.a. the JumP
company) is a nonprofit
organization that provides an
opportunity for students in grades
one through 12 to participate in
musical theater. Every year, local
professionals assist the JumP
company in presenting two
left: herrett center for Arts and Science right: twin Falls center for the ArtsJ
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musical productions. When the
company is not rehearsing for
a show, it offers workshops.
Other performance groups and
venues in the Southern Idaho area
include the Dilettante Group of
magic valley, the magic valley
Little Theatre and the king Fine
Arts center in Burley.
tWInFallscenterForthearts
The newest addition to the
local arts community is the Twin
Falls center for the Arts, opened
in late 2010 within the River vista
development on the Snake River
canyon rim. The facility provides
a space where art aficionados can
gather to celebrate life and art in
the magic valley. With an outdoor
plaza, a two-story atrium, an
auditorium and multipurpose
rooms used for classes, the
center cultivates all types of art
in an environment pleasing to
arts patrons. – Joe Morris TO
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southern Idaho recreation
ranges from great golf and
auto racing to rock climbing and
snowmobiling – almost always
surrounded by beautiful views.
snoWsportsActive types who embrace all
seasons will be right at home in
Southern Idaho’s snowmobile
trails and prominent ski resorts.
The Albion Area Snowmobile
Trails feature approximately 30
square miles of trails that vary in
difficulty. The Gooding county
Snow Park provides access to a
snowmobile trail that covers 150
miles of land. The magic mountain
Resort has several ski trails as well
as its own tubing trail. And,
located in the Sawtooth national
Forest, the Pomerelle mountain
Resort allows access to 24 slopes.
WarmWeathernaturalattractIons
Southern Idaho is also home to
several outdoor recreation sites
that are most popular during
warmer months for rock climbing,
camping, fishing, hiking, swimming,
sight-seeing and bird-watching.
The city of Rocks national
Reserve offers outstanding rock
climbing with 500 routes that
ascend granite monoliths, which
can reach more than 60 stories
high. Located about 2 miles north
of the magic mountain Resort, the
Twin Falls Area hiking Trail offers
numerous outdoor activities,
including camping, fishing, hiking
and bird-watching.
Thousand Springs State Park
boasts historic structures at Ritter
Island and Bonnieview, as well as
the beautiful natural scenery of
the Earl m. hardy Box canyon
Springs nature Preserve, niagara
Springs and crystal Lake. The
Banbury hot Springs run along
the Snake River and connect to
campground facilities, a picnic
area, boat ramp, outdoor pool
and Jacuzzis.
Sports & Recreation
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Chartered Flights • Aircraft Management Aircraft Maintenance • U.S. and Canadian Service
208.308.1852 • www.paviation.com
rock climbing at city of rocks national reserve in Almo
theactivesouthernIdahoBEAutIFul golF courSES, nAturAl WonDErS AnD WorlD-clASS SnoW SkIIng
48 SouthErn IDAho
Chartered Flights • Aircraft Management Aircraft Maintenance • U.S. and Canadian Service
208.308.1852 • www.paviation.com
golFgaloreSouthern Idaho has many golf
courses, some of which are set
next to the beautiful Snake River.
canyon Springs Golf course in Twin
Falls, an 18-hole course for players
of all skill levels; Blue Lakes country
club, a private 18-hole course open
year round and situated in the
Snake River canyon; and clear
Lake country club, located in Buhl,
a semi-private 18-hole course open
in the spring and fall.
spectatorsportsAuto racing fans have a
hometown track in magic valley
Speedway, a 1/3-mile, semi-
banked oval track. Besides
thrilling races, the speedway also
offers participants a ride in an
official pace car or race car.
Sports fans also support the
athletes of college of Southern
Idaho by attending home events.
– Braxton Shoop TO
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Sports & Recreation
Your Back
Your Choice
1411 Falls Ave. E. • Suite 1301 Twin Falls, ID 83301
Ph: 208.732.0067 • Fax: 208.732.3195email: [email protected]
t he prognosis is positive
for health care in Southern
Idaho, with top facilities in place
for patients throughout the
magic valley and beyond.
st.luke’smagIcvalleymedIcalcenter
Opened in 1918, St. Luke’s
serves eight Southern Idaho
counties and parts of northern
nevada. In 2006, the residents
of Twin Falls county voted to
partner St. Luke’s with the long-
standing magic valley Regional
medical center, and now a brand
new, state-of-the-art St. Luke’s
magic valley medical center
opened in Twin Falls in 2011.
The 700,000-square-foot
hospital is touted as the most
advanced in Idaho and features
160 multispecialty physicians.
There are private rooms and
186 beds, along with a large
emergency department, women’s
and children’s center, and an
in-patient rehabilitation center.
A medical plaza with 20
specialties is attached to the
hospital, and also attached is an
expanded St. Luke’s mountain
States Tumor Institute cancer
clinic. As for the new medical
center itself, features include an
efficient layout of nursing areas,
earth-tone colors throughout
St. Luke’s, and a cardiac
catheterization lab that is double
the size of the old lab. A second
linear accelerator has been added,
avoiding disruptions in a cancer
patient’s treatment cycle, and
there is an increased number of
beds in the Intensive care unit.
We’vegotyoucoveredSEvErAl hoSpItAlS provIDE hEAlthY outlookS
health & Wellness
A room at the new St. luke’s magic valley medical center in twin Falls T
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meanwhile in late 2011,
St. Luke’s partnered with St.
Benedicts Family medical center
in Jerome, and St. Luke’s officials
promise to run the hospital as
caringly and efficiently as it has
operated since first opening in
1952. The rural health facility is
now under the St. Luke’s banner
(called St. Luke’s-Jerome) and
features all of the top medical
services that St. Luke’s has
always offered.
cassIaregIonalmedIcalcenter
This hospital in Burley opened
in 1960 and today is operated
by Intermountain healthcare.
Services include 24-hour
emergency, critical care, family
practice, surgery, rehabilitation
and a sleep lab. cassia Regional
medical center, with 300
employees and 35 staff
physicians, also has a birth center
and provides OB/Gyn services.
mInIdokamemorIalhospital services offered at the
medical center in Rupert include
surgery, obstetrics, inpatient and
outpatient treatments, long-term
care, home health, ambulance and
occupational health. minidoka
memorial has 50 beds and is a
long-term care and rehabilitation
facility. The hospital employs
more than 200 people, making
it an important employer in Twin
Falls county.
northcanyonmedIcalcenter
north canyon in Gooding has
been making a difference since
the multimillion-dollar facility
opened on time and under budget
in 2010. It offers private rooms, an
all-digital health records system
that is integrated with affiliated
doctors’ offices, a larger
emergency room with two
trauma bays and six exam
rooms, a 16-slice cT scanner, 4-D
ultrasound, digital mammography
and surgical imaging. north
canyon medical center now offers
surgery, and is built for expansion
at every level so that it can grow
with the community.
– Kevin Litwin
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 51
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 53
ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 53
Education
schools in Southern Idaho
earn extra credit for providing
excellent academic opportunities
for students of all ages. here are
some of the top academic options
throughout the magic valley.
hIghereducatIonThe college of Southern Idaho
main campus is in Twin Falls, and
it has off-campus centers in Burley,
Gooding, hailey and Jerome. cSI
enrolls approximately 7,000
students and offers more than
100 course disciplines. Additional
upper-division courses are offered
through cSI at the university of
Idaho, Idaho State university and
Boise State university.
BoisestateuniversityThe research university in
the state’s capital city has an
enrollment of nearly 20,000
students. It offers almost 200 fields
of study ranging from associate
certifications to doctoral programs.
Boise State is organized into
seven colleges: arts and sciences,
business and economics,
education, engineering, graduate
studies, health sciences, and
social sciences and public affairs.
puBlIcschoolstwinFallsschooldistrict
This district serves 7,400
students and has seven elementary
schools, two middle schools, one
alternative middle school, two
high schools and one alternative
high school. The Twin Falls School
District has a staff of approximately
950, making it one of the largest
employers in Southern Idaho.
Jeromeschooldistrictmore than 3,500 students
are enrolled in the Jerome
schoolsofthoughtSouthErn IDAho DESErvES hIgh mArkS For EDucAtIon
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School District. horizon and
Jefferson elementary schools
accommodate grades k-3;
Summit Elementary is for grades
4-5; Jerome middle features
grades 6-8; and Jerome high
School has grades 9-12.
minidokacountyschooldistrict
mcSD is home to Acequia,
heyburn, Paul and Rupert
elementary schools; East minico
and West minico middle schools;
minico high School; and mt.
harrison Jr./Sr. high School.
cassiacountyschooldistrict
The district is home to
Burley, Declo, Oakley and Raft
River high schools, and Burley
and Declo junior high schools.
The elementary schools in the
ccSD are Albion, Almo, Declo,
Dworshak, mountain view, Oakley,
Raft River and White Pine. There
is also cassia Alternative high,
cassia Tech center and
newcomer center Preschool.
Blainecountyschooldistrict
This school district features
eight schools, including one – carey
School – that accommodates k-12
students. The other public schools
are Bellevue Elementary, Ernest
hemingway Elementary, hailey
Elementary, Woodside Elementary,
Wood River middle School, Silver
creek high School and Wood
River high School.
Idahodigitallearningacademy
IDLA is a state-sponsored and
accredited online school created
by the Idaho State Legislature
to provide greater education
access for Idaho students in grades
7-12. The school addresses the
educational needs of all traditional,
home-schooled, at-risk and gifted
learners in Idaho.
otheroptIonsSouthen Idaho also offers a
number of excellent private and
charter schools.
–Kevin Litwin
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JoslinFieldMagiCValley
RegionalaiRPoRt
492airportloop
twinFalls,id83301
(208)733-5215
www.tfid.org
“Bridging the Magic Valley to the Rest of the World”
visit ouradvertisersAtaraxis Accountingwww.idahocpa.com
Brookdale Senior Livingwww.brookdaleliving.com
Church of the Ascensionwww.ascension.episcopalidaho.com
College of Southern Idahowww.csi.edu
DL Evans Bankwww.dlevans.com
First Federalwww.firstfd.com
Habitat for Humanity of the Magic Valley Inc.www.habitatmagicvalley.org
Intermountain Spine & Orthopaedicswww.imspine.com
Joslin Field Magic Valley Regional Airportwww.tfid.org
Kurt’s Pharmacywww.kurtspharmacyandhallmark.com
Precision Aviation Inc.www.paviation.com
Rosenau Funeral Home & Crematorywww.rosenaufuneralhome.com
Snake River ENTwww.marodspa.com
Southern Idaho Tourismwww.visitsouthidaho.com
St. Benedicts Family Medical Centerwww.stbenshospital.org
St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Centerwww.stlukesonline.org
Twin Falls School Districtwww.ed.tfsd.org
54 SouthErn IDAho ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 55
household inFormation
age
33median resident Age
32%Age 19 and under
44%Age 20-54
24%Age 55 and over
mArItAl StAtuS
58%married
42%Single
Climate
86°FJuly high temperature
19°FJanuary low temperature
10”
Annual rain Fall (vs. national
Average Annual rain Fall of 37”)
Cost oF liVing
$38,354median household Income
$106,387median home price
$647median rent for a two-Bedroom Apartment
snapshotTwin Falls county is the most populous of the seven Southern
Idaho counties and has grown steadily over the past decade.
The area has swiftly become a regional retail hub for Southern
Idaho, and the population has increased accordingly. The area
has abundant natural resources and numerous recreational
opportunities.
Community proFile
2826 Addison Ave. E. • Twin Falls, ID 83301208.944.3373 T • 208.944.3371 F [email protected] www.rosenaufuneralhome.com
Kevin Rosenau
EthnIcItY
76%White
lessthan1%Black
15%hispanic
9%other
transportation
12minutesmedian travel time to Work
time zone
mountain
54 SouthErn IDAho ImAgESSouthErnIDAho.com 55
Through the Lens
I’ve never really understood
the fascination with skydiving.
you jump out of a perfectly good
plane, plummet several thousand
feet, use a bed sheet attached
to a knapsack on your back with
pieces of string and hope that
it slows your fall.
In the words of commander
Spock, “This is highly illogical.”
BASE jumping is even more
confounding. (For the uneducated,
BASE stands for buildings,
antennas, spans and earth.)
But so is the attraction to the
Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, ID.
It is the only bridge in the united
States where it is legal to BASE
jump 365 days out of the year
without a permit.
For the unprepared, it can be
a tire screeching shock as you
drive across the bridge and see
someone leap over the side of
the bridge. Even if you’ve driven
across it before, it can still be
a little unnerving …
FromourphotoBlog:southernIdaho
POSTED By TODD BEnnETT
moreonlineSee more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at throughthelensjci.com.
now that you’ve experienced Southern Idaho through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. visit throughthelensjci.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments.
getthestoryBehindthephoto
56 SouthErn IDAho
Join the challenge for a chance to get healthy and win money.
The Challenge starts again in January. our Mission: 1) Raise awareness of obesity-related illnesses2) Encourage the Magic Valley to get healthy through weight loss3) Raise money for a nonprofit organization, which reinforces our health-related goals4) Involve sponsors and businesses throughout the community to promote healthy lifestyles
Find us on at: www.facebook.com/pages/1000000-Magic-Valley-Weight-Loss-Challenge/135372773181332?sk=wall
Weigh in1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
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LocaLLy owned for more than 25 years
1203 Filer Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 83301 (208) 734-8177 tel(208) 734-8184 fax
www.kurtspharmacyandhallmark.com
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Ad Index 8 AtArAxisAccounting
2 BrookdAleseniorliving
44 churchoftheAscension
52 collegeofsouthernidAho
c4 dlevAnsBAnk
6 firstfederAl
44 hABitAtforhumAnity ofthemAgicvAlleyinc.
50 intermountAinspine &orthopAedics
54 JoslinfieldmAgic vAlleyregionAlAirport
c3 kurt’sphArmAcy
49 precisionAviAtioninc.
55 rosenAufunerAl
home&cremAtory
2 snAkeriverent
c2 southernidAhotourism
9 st.BenedictsfAmily
medicAlcenter
12 st.luke’smAgicvAlley
medicAlcenter
55 twinfAlls
schooldistrict
Five generationsAnd we’ve only just started!
107 years
“Over one hundred years ago, D. L. Evans started the bank
in Idaho, with $25,000 and a dream.
Despite the floods, droughts, and the Great Depression, we continue to grow and
prosper throughout Idaho.”
John V. Evans, Sr. Former Governor of Idaho
We’re looking forward to the next hundred!
ALBION BOISE BURLEY HAILEY IDAHO FALLS JEROME KETCHUM MERIDIAN NAMPA POCATELLO RUPERT TWIN FALLS
www.dlevans.com
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