I-90 Picnic Stops on the Road to Yellowstone
If you’re road-tripping from Seattle to Yellowstone this summer, you’ll pretty much stay on the interstate for the bulk of the trip. And although that sounds rather utilitarian, the good news is that the roadway is dotted with conifers, and it’s not unusual to see a bald eagle or two along the way. And then there’s the issue of lunch stops. Why wait in the drive through for a burger, when you can enjoy a picnic lunch alfresco?
With that in mind here are three lunch stops that offer a little bit more than just a table and a toilet. Not only are they all a good choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers, but they are also close to I-90 for easy access. So pack along a picnic lunch and enjoy the great outdoors at one of these I-90 picnic stops on the road to Yellowstone.
Falls Park
On of my favorite I-90 picnic stops on the road to Yellowstone is Falls Park (https://www.postfallsidaho.org/venue/falls-park/). Located in Post Falls, Idaho, it’s about a 4 hour and 40 minute drive from Seattle. Just take exit 5 from I-90, make a right on Spokane, and a right on 4th. The park is just past the railroad tracks on the left, across the street from the Peaks Apartments.
There’s accessible parking and accessible family restrooms near the park entrance, and a level paved pathway to a covered accessible table in the picnic area. After lunch head over to the overlook for a nice view of the Spokane River. Then double back and follow the paved trail past the fishing pond over a series of switchbacks to the upper overlook for a glimpse of Post Falls. There is a 5% grade on the switchbacks, but there are level spots to take a break in between; however some manual wheelchair-users may need assistance at this point.
From the upper viewpoint, continue down over the boardwalk for a closer look at the falls. Finally, continue on past the site of the former saw mill and circle back to the beginning of the trail. It’s just a .35-mile loop, but for the best access make sure and do it in a counter clockwise direction. It’s also worth noting that the falls on the Spokane River run at their peak in late spring and summer, as they are fed by the snowpack. If you visit in October you’ll be sorely disappointed.
Huetter Rest Area
If you happen to travel past peak season for Post Falls, there’s a semi-utilitarian picnic area just a few miles down the road. That said it’s worth a mention because not only is it right off the freeway, but it’s a definite cut above your standard cement lined rest area.
Just take exit 8 from I-90 and follow the signs to the eastbound Huetter Rest Area. There’s accessible parking near the accessible restrooms, with level access over to the facilities and a tourist information center. The great thing about this rest area is that it’s surrounded by a pine and fir forest, and the picnic tables are nicely spaced out under the trees. And if it’s raining, rest assured a few tables have shelters. You can pick an accessible table on a grassy area near the accessible parking space, or follow the cement walk way to one under a pine tress. And when you’re done with lunch, it’s easy to hop back on the interstate and continue your journey.
Old Mission
Last but not least on our list of I-90 picnic stops on the road to Yellowstone, is Old Mission State Park (parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/coeur-d-alenes-old-mission/) in Cataldo, Idaho. From I-90 take exit 39, turn right at the stop sign, and make a left at the park entrance.
The visitor center is located on the right, but for the best access to the picnic area, follow the park road up the hill and park in the level area near the mission. Although there aren’t any marked spaces in the small lot, it’s also possible to parallel park in a dirt area near the parking spaces. From the lot, follow the level sidewalk over to the accessible picnic tables on the level shaded grassy area on the right of the mission. Accessible vault toilets are available on the other side of the parking area.
Save some time after lunch to pop into the Mission of the Sacred Heart, which was constructed in the mid-1880s by missionaries and members of the Coeur d’Alene. Although there are steps up to the front door, there’s a lift on the right side. It’s important to note that the platform has to be all the way down in order to open the door; but if you have problems call (208) 682-3814.
There’s a threshold ramp to the front door, but there’s about a two-inch step down on the inside. There’s plenty of room to roll around the sanctuary, which includes an organ, the confessional, the altar and the stations of the cross. Interestingly enough, no nails were used in the construction — only dowels. And don’t forget to look up at the colorful ceiling — it was painted with huckleberry juice.
Afterwards, hop back on I-90 and continue your road trip to Yellowstone.
And When You Arrive
Tips for an Accessible Yellowstone Visit
