Idaho does have rather harsh winters, and the spring tends to be rather wet, as well, so the ideal time to go biking in Idaho is during the summer or beginning fall months, from about May through October. While the season is somewhat limited, the mountains, rivers, and gorgeous views in the state make up for the short biking season. And with more than 19,000 miles of trails statewide-with trails for riders at all levels of skill and experience-Idaho is a great place to go biking!

Beginners may want to start on an 11-mile loop not far from Pocatello. This trail-referred to as the Valve or Pump House Trail in the Mink Creek Recreation Area-is a long simple trek that can help build riding endurance without too many technical challenges. Don’t forget to bring water, though, and stay hydrated.

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I recently returned from playing hooky for a few days to attend the Peace Corps 50th-anniversary celebrations in Washington along with 5,000 other returned volunteers — just a fraction of the nearly quarter-million who have served our country... My flagrant waste of water during a long shower that did not require refilling the water tank was one. As it happened, I had my first hot shower in 2½ months while in Washington for the Peace Corps celebration. I chanced to look up and realized that a stunner of a sunset was under way — yet nearly hidden by blocks and blocks of high-rise buildings. … It was good to get back to the lake house for our final weeks before moving to the “winter house” last Saturday. What a waste of beauty, in a way, yet in another, what a comfort to know that nature does not need a beholder. The other moment occurred when I was strolling around Capitol Hill one evening.

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