High Desert

The only logical way to get from Yellowstone to California is via Nevada. That, in turn, requires crossing down through southern Idaho. So we spent one night in Twin Falls and here is what you need to know about Twin Falls: A mall sits virtually on the precipice of the Snake River Canyon. Lovely.

Driving I-80 across northern Nevada means you can drive fast and zone out for a while and not miss or hit anything. Elko is a good place for a break, if you must stop. The Ruby Mountains are actually quite nice to look at, the town has a good chamber of commerce in a historic ranch house, and the history of the area is indeed interesting. Other options aside from Elko include "towns" consisting of a handful of run-down trailers parked amidst ancient vehicles, or "recreational areas" so-named because three gallons of water were found there at one time.

Whatever you do, do not assume major intersections ~ say, where I-80 crosses 95 south ~ will offer anything aside from a frighteningly comical rest area from hell.

Numerous signs here warn that travelers may only use the picnic tables for 18 consecutive hours. Just in case you want to linger.