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The Idaho Chapter of the Oregon-California Trails Association (IOCTA) submitted an application for
designation of an Idaho State Back Country Byway called the “Main Oregon Trail Back Country Byway”.
The Idaho Transportation Board approved the proposal at it June 18, 2009 meeting. This Back Country
Byway follows the main Oregon Trail from Three Island Crossing of the Snake River near Glenns Ferry
to Bonneville Point southeast of Boise. The route provides access to the ruts and swales of the Oregon
Trail as it stretches northwest across the desert and farmland of Elmore and Ada Counties. Some of the
finest remnants of the Oregon Trail within Idaho lie along this route. There are many historically
significant sites and locations where the traveler can view or hike the ruts which remain after over
150 years.
The Scenic Byway program is an important part of sharing the history and beauty of Idaho with local
residents and tourists. The designation of the Main Oregon Trail Back Country Byway as a state
approved Back Country Byway will increase tourism and therefore assist city and county economic
development councils in the Glenns Ferry and Mountain Home areas. Local historical groups should
benefit as well with the increased emphasis on local history.
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![[SCENIC HEADING]](Three_Island_Crossing.jpg)