When I was little, there was nothing better than a day at the zoo, and as an adult I feel the same. It was a huge blow moving from Denver to Utah and going from a zoo that takes all day to explore to one that can be seen in its entire in less than 2 hours yet costs the same for admission and, from where we live, is more than twice the distance from home.

That said, it is not a bad zoo. In fact, it's very pretty. The animals are well-kept and the enclosures are clean. There is a train and a carousel (which they claim is unique, but I think all zoos have hem these days- Denver did) and plenty of concessions. Like most zoos, there are gift shops and kiosks scattered everywhere with over-priced merch targeted at making little kids whine and parents shrug and say "well, it's for a good cause".

Having only been once I am not sure what activities and educational experiences take place throughout the year, but I'm sure there are quite a few. I know they do sometimes have free days.

Parking is abysmal.

This is one of those examples of how we get "lost" often along our way to where we're going. In the middle of our "over the river and through the woods" trek to Grandma's house in Boise, my husband spotted the "Shoshone Falls 10 miles" sign and got the itch. Somewhere new! (For him, at least- I remembered the falls from when I was very very young.) On that whim he exited the freeway and began following signs. I have to say, the signs could have been better, but after stopping for directions in Twin Falls we did finally get back on the right trail and down to the falls.

My absolute favorite moment the whole trip is as we're driving out across the plain and the sign says 9 miles. My husband looks at the flat expanse in front of him and asks where in 9 miles are we going to find a waterfall? The mountains are so much farther away than that! Seconds later the Snake River Gorge comes into view and the answer is clear- the falls are not above us, they are below!

Descending the winding road into the gorge the scenery changes from gray and gold October to a misty, greener, lusher landscape. Small cascades break through the walls of the gorge and spill icy water along the road which runs in channels alongside us. The roads were not slippery and were very well maintained.

At last we reached the upper lot and discovered the park was completely deserted. It was late in the day and late in the season and by all reports the falls should have been nearly dry, but we were lucky and found them in excellent flow and had them all to ourselves. I would like to go back during the summer and see what else there is to see, but for a half-hour side trip on our way we enjoyed a fantastic view.

In warmer seasons there is plenty of green area and benches and tables for picnicing and enjoying the atmosphere. There are trails and many other wonderful activities to enjoy, For $3 a car it's a fantastic place to stop. Definitely visit the web site for more fun facts and information.

These charming family-owned cabins located near the Idaho shores of Bear Lake are comfortable, convenient and inexpensive. A large cabin contains two beds and can comfortably sleep 6-8 people though you can cram more in if you don't mind. Air mattresses are provided by the management for extra guests. A small cabin contains only one bed and would probably comfortably contain 4-6 people, though again you can find floor for more. All cabins contain a microwave, television and small fridge as well as a small table and chairs and have sinks, showers and toilets for those who are adverse to "roughing it".

The grounds include a fire pit, a swing set for children and picnic areas. The neighborhood is charming and there is plenty to do within a short drive of the cabins.

The long guided tour through this breathtaking 9-room cave system is absolutely worth the 896 stairs (round trip) it takes to complete it. Probably not the best activity for families with children who will need to be carried, though. There were several infants on our tour who did okay, but the parents were definitely bushed well before the end.

The tour guides are very considerate and allow for frequent stops and slow downs to accomodate visitors who are less physically fit than might be ideal. (IE: people like me!)

Take a jacket as it can get cool in the lower caves and take a camera because photography IS allowed, unlike some other popular caves in the US.

There is also plenty of other recreation available as the caves are located within a short driving distance of Bear Lake and the charming towns that surround it.

A family pass is $20 (immediate family living at home) or it is $5 for individual adults and $4 for ages 6-12. If you have a Gold Pass discounts apply.

Wonderful trails for all kinds of recreation. There are hiking, walking, bike and horse trails around these amazing rock formations. Rock climbing, bouldering etc. Plenty of picnic areas, a nice visitor center with lots of educational information and add to it that this park is FREE to everyone!

Keep your eyes open for eagles and other wildlife and definitely take your camera.