Tuesday, 11 March 2025:
Boise, Idaho – Ash Springs, Nevada
Boise to Vegas: Hot Springs, Highways, and a Little Highway Hypnosis
Ever feel like life’s a winding road with unexpected detours? That’s how my recent trip from Boise, Idaho, heading toward Travel Con 2025 felt. I started in Idaho intending to end in Nevada. This trip was filled with hot springs, highways, and a close encounter with the law. Buckle up, because this is a wild ride from Miracle Hot Springs to Nevada!
A Sleepy Start and a Fuel-Filled Breakfast
The day began a bit later than planned. Daylight Savings Time threw off my schedule. Instead of waking up at 7:30 AM, it was closer to 8:00 AM. A hearty breakfast was definitely in order. I hit the Quality Inn hotel breakfast buffet hard! Here’s what fueled my morning:
- Sausage
- Scrambled Eggs
- Biscuits and Gravy
- Waffle
- Chocolate Muffin
- Lemonade
- Orange Juice
- Yogurt
- Orange
With breakfast devoured and type 2 diabetic medicine taken, I caught up on news and client work. The destination for the day: Miracle Hot Springs!
Pulled Over! A Close Call in the Gem State
Leaving Boise, I pointed the car toward Miracle Hot Springs. Cruising along, I was zipping by at 84 in an 80 mph zone. Suddenly, flashing lights appeared in my rearview mirror. My heart sank.
I pulled over, fumbling for my registration. To my surprise, the officer approached the passenger side. He simply asked for my ID. No ticket! He mentioned my following distance was too close for the high speed. He didn’t ask for registration or insurance. I wasn’t even wearing my seatbelt! Feeling lucky, I thanked him for keeping the roads safe.
We chatted briefly, and I mentioned I was an archaeologist. He seemed genuinely interested. I told him about the Etruscan coin, a cool find I made doing excavations in Italy – a sex scene on a bronze coin. It was an interesting and unexpected encounter!
Soaking Bliss at Miracle Hot Springs
After the excitement, I finally arrived at Miracle Hot Springs. Have you ever visited a hot spring? This time, I decided to splurge on a private pool. It was my first time trying it, as Miracle Hot Springs has become so popular that reservations are a must.
The private pool was worth every penny. Having the space all to myself was pure bliss. I even enjoyed an early, clothing-optional soak. Relaxation achieved!
For lunch, I devoured my Quizno’s left-over lobster roll from yesterday with butter rolls from the night before. Delicious!
Nevada Bound: Detours and Desert Drives
Back on the road, my journey took an unexpected turn. A flipped ranch trailer closed one of the roads. I headed south into Nevada, crossing the border by 2 PM.
My first stop was in Wells, Nevada. The visitor center was closed. I was originally planning to visit Well Springs or Al Springs. But the long, tiring drive and lack of cell service changed my mind.
Extraterrestrial Highway and Car Camping Under the Stars
Driving south on Highway 93 through Nevada felt endless. I was going to stay at the Crystal Springs rest area. It wasn’t appealing. It was right at the intersection of the Extraterrestrial Highway, so I considered checking that out. But I decided to continue on.
I found the Lake Parahagat Wildlife Refuge Campground. Score! It was free to car camp. The camp hosts were friendly and helped me find a good spot.
Settled in for the night, I called my son Cian. He was at Dave n’ Busters with his mom, celebrating his birthday. I also caught up with my brother and some friends before calling it a night from Alamo.
Trip Reflection
That day was a mix of near misses, relaxing hot springs, and long stretches of Nevada highway. From that close call with the police, to the tranquil hot springs, to the promise of the Extraterrestrial Highway, it was a day of contrasts and surprises. The trip from Miracle hot Springs to Nevada was shaping up to be an unforgettable adventure.
