Last updated: January 27, 2023
Place
Three Island Crossing State Park
Quick Facts
Location:
Glenns Ferry, Idaho
Significance:
Three Island Crossing was the most important and difficult river crossing in Idaho
Designation:
Idaho State Park
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
7 listed
Amphitheater, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Picnic Table, Restroom, Trailhead, Water - Drinking/Potable, Wheelchair Accessible
Three Island Crossing was the most important and difficult river crossing in Idaho. Crossing the Snake River was always dangerous, but when the water was low enough to negotiate, everyone who could, forded the river here. This allowed emigrants to take the more favorable northern route to Fort Boise. If they were unable to cross, emigrants were forced to travel along the alternate south route into Oregon- a dry, sandy, dusty, and hot trail that wore out man and beast. Three Island crossing remained active until 1869 when a ferry was built across the river. The crossing is now part of Three Island Crossing State Park.
Emigrant Remarks
On September 11, 1843, William T. Newby ". . . crossed Snake Rive[r]. First we drove over a part of the river one hundred yards wide on to a island, the[n] over a northern branch 75 yards wide on a second island; then we tide a string of wagons together by a chane in the ring of the lead cattles yoak & made fast to the wagon of all a horse & before & him led. We carried as many a[s] fifteen wagons at one time. . . . The water was ten inches up the waggeo[n] beds in the deepe places."
Site Information
Location (Glenns Ferry, Idaho)
The park contains a history and education center, a campground, cabins, picnic areas, and interpretive trails. When near the education center, look across the river to see trail ruts descending from the bluff to the Snake River fording spot. Modest admission is charged.
More Site Information
Oregon National Historic Trail