Soak the Vote

11.08.2006
Even though Idaho remains as the most Republican state, America has decided to give the Democrats a turn in the hot seat. There were a few close races here in Idaho, enough to stir things up last night. I was glad to find out that Prop 2 went down in flames; I'm always amazed when covert agenda stuff makes it to a vote.

I used to get extremely frustrated with Idaho Republicans. Here we are, with the majority of us living in this beautiful state because of the outdoors for some reason or another. Yet, even when obvious legislation is enacted that goes directly against our public lands, roadless forests, wildlife and personal health (water quality) the Republican Red rages on. What could be more obvious than the land grab, revoking the roadless rule, attacking the Endangered Species Act, etc...

I just couldn't wrap my mind around why. I finally came to a realization after talking with many of my acquaintances - it all comes down to education. Given the chance and the proper vessel of education, most that live here because of the outdoors make a decision based upon relevant information. That's how I do it. There's no Blue or Red in my mind, just an ideal of environmental stewardship. And, right now, Blue (Democrats) are far better stewards of the environment.

Well, enough of that. Now get out there and go find yourself a hot soak!

More on Idaho's Prop 2

11.06.2006
Don't Let Them Fool You

If Prop 2 goes through, Idaho property taxpayers could be forced to pay millions to opportunists and special interests (did you get that?!) in order to protect their property, the environment and wildlife. So, if big business wants to move in next door or into the forest we would have to pay them to stop!

Under Proposition 2 no recourse can be taken if, for example, someone wants to locate a junkyard or gravel pit next to your home, because either property taxes pay the person not to do it or the investment and value in the property declines.

The eminent domain section is included only to distract attention from the initiative’s real purpose - gutting local planning that protects our communities and property values and allowing opportunists to prey on Idaho property tax-payers.

Prop 2 takes planning for growth out of local hands and gives it to opportunists and special interest groups. Millionaires who don’t even live in Idaho should not be able to dictate what local government and Idaho property owners can and cannot do.

Who's behind Prop 2? You won't even believe it, click here to see for yourself!

Don't be fooled, vote for the environment, your property rights and against special interests - vote NO on Proposition 2!

Josh
-IdahoHotSprings.com Webmaster

Additional Prop 2 Information

Roaring River Hot Springs in Idaho Revisited

General Description
Steamy, roadside soaking in a variety of rock-walled pools await the intrepid hot springer. The vast complex emanates heat from multiple locations. However, the small and shallow pools have varied temperatures, need rebuilding after spring runoff and relocation after the river lever recedes (too hot!). There may or may not be something worth while to soak in, but there is plenty of opportunity abound.


09.19.06: One of many small, seasonal pools along the MF Boise River

Pool Condition
Pools are typically small, shallow soakers dug out near or at the river edge where hot meets cold. Once a suitable pool is found or designed, soakers can then enjoy a traditional hot/cold swirling soak where it is often necessary to stir the pool to maintain an adequate soaking temperature.

Seasonal Notes
The majority of roads into the Atlanta area close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of accidents that occur on this road during the summer months. Note: The Middle Fork Boise River Road is a rough one - this is one of my least favorite roads to drive on in Idaho due to the insane washboards. Something to keep in mind. During the summer you can cut down on the drive time by taking on of the many FSR off State HWY 21 to the Middle Fork Road.

Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from up and down the road.


09.19.06: Pool sizes, temps and locations vary each year and usually need rebuilding after spring runoff

09.19.06 Trip Report
Roaring River was more like a dull roar for me. While very scenic, the majority of the pools were unusable and clearly visible from the Boise Middle Fork Road. The geothermal complex is fairly large, emanating hot spring water from multiple locations. Most of the pools were either freezing, silt-filled, boiling or poorly designed. There was one worthy soak, but not really that worthy. It was hot enough, but small and shallow in addition to having somewhat low water movement. There was however, plenty of potential. Soaking next to a fairly busy forest road in lack-luster pools isn't really my spot of tea, and really why should it be with so many other stellar soaks nearby. This one is worth a check-out though, and you may just luck out and find a big, juicy steamy soak waiting.
Rating: C-

Idaho Prop 2 - Vote NO

11.05.2006
I was going to attempt to write a convincing piece on why Proposition 2 is bad news but this website does a great job. Don't forget to vote pro-environment on Tuesday by voting NO on Proposition 2.

30 ft Hot Waterfall-Fed Brown Hot Spring in Idaho

11.02.2006



General Description
There is a major river ford to reach Brown's Creek Hot Spring that should only be attempted during low-water conditions, which is usually sometime during the month of August. Once on the far side of the Middle Fork Boise River, soakers are treated to small, shallow, seasonal soaking pools, a hot waterfall shower and a secret shallow soaker nestled in a nook in the rocks (the only one out of view of the road).


Pool Condition
Hot waterfall (approx. 30ft tall) fed shallow pools (only above water late season around August) and hidden two-person rock and mortar pool on the far side of the Boise River.




Seasonal Notes
The majority of roads into the Atlanta area close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of accidents that occur on this road during the summer months. Note: The Middle Fork Boise River Road is a rough one - this is one of my least favorite roads to drive on in Idaho due to the insane washboards. Something to keep in mind. During the summer you can cut down on the drive time by taking on of the many FSR off State HWY 21 to the Middle Fork Road.


Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from up and down the road.




09.19.06 Trip Report
What a nice little surprise Brown Hot Spring turned out to be. The river water, freezing, let me tell you. But the soaking, not too shabby. Had there been something a bit deeper I would have been stoked. The dual hot waterfall/showers definitely helped. The best time to visit Brown is late August. Swim during the day and soak at dusk and dawn.
Rating: B