Big Springs

Sunday breakfast was an adventure this morning, as our six-pack of Gordon, Juanita, Steve, Karen, Paul and I headed "way out in the woods" to Meadow Creek Lodge. This rustic setting serves up a home-cooked, ranch-style breakfast with a side of cowboy humor. Our massive plates were emptied, so everyone left happy. It was definitely worth the long drive off the beaten path.

Since we were already out in the boonies, we drove just a bit farther outside Island Park to Big Springs. This picturesque National Natural Landmark forms the headwaters of the Henry's Fork of the Snake River and is home to Johnny Sack's cabin.

Each day the springs produce 120 million gallons of crystal clear water.

Johnny Sack, a German cabinet maker, came to the United States and began construction of his cabin on the springs in 1939. Three years later, the 4'11" tall builder completed his hand-crafted home with an outhouse out back. After his death in 1957, Johnny's cabin was slated to be cleared from the area. A group of interested citizens saved the structures on the site, which today is maintained by a non-profit organization.

The kitchen reflects rustic life in the 1940s.

Two cozy bedrooms upstairs are filled with hand-crafted furnishings.

With a view of Big Springs, Johnny Sack picked a beautiful spot to build his dream home.

Here at Big Springs, Spring is finally arriving. With welcome sunshine and warmer temperatures, everything is in bloom.

The recent snow melt has given way to the Yellow Glacier Lily, a wildflower of the Northwest that is in full bloom way out here in the woods. Beautiful!