Advertising Supplement to S−R Media/The Spokesman−Review • Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Anyone who feels Rosalia is a bit “big city” will be happy to head into the ghost town of Elberton, just outside of Garfield. Admittedly there isn’t much to do in Elberton and few locals. Garfield, on the other hand, boasts a population of nearly 600, a tavern and Bishops Orchard (open weekends through October) where you can pick apples for 40 cents a pound. Keep in mind that like Rosalia, most of the charming Palouse towns, either have a tavern or some kind of spot to enjoy a cold one. Expect local cops to keep an eye on bikers visiting their community watering hole, and for good reason. The National Highway Traffic Safety Institute has found that the percentage of intoxicated motorcycle riders in fatal crashes is greater than the percentage of intoxicated drivers on our roads – yet another reason to hold off on settling in to beer-thirty until it’s time to drop kickstand for the night. A great place to sleep it off is at the Castle House Bed and
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Breakfast in Oakesdale. Don’t mention it in Dusty, but this town is arguably the most historically significant community in the Palouse and worth exploring. Oakesdale once acted as the “hub” of the Palouse by shipping grains, lentils and peas on three major railroads that ran through town. As one of the oldest communities in the state, Oakesdale boasts a number of homes and buildings featured on the National Historical Register. It doesn’t take more than a passing glance at the Palouse Scenic Highway to realize it’s a dream come true for any biker who wants to be entertained as much by the roadways as the scenery and one of a kind attractions along the way. Visit the WSDOT website and www.palousescenicbyway.com to learn more. And remember, helmets aren’t required by law in Idaho, but they are in the Evergreen State. Strap one on for the ride, be safe and don’t forget to have fun.
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