10 – Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail
Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail, located near Melba, Idaho, offers visitors a unique blend of history, art, and nature. Established by Dr. Samuel “Pappy” Swayne and his wife Cleo after they acquired the old ferry area, the site features preserved 1860s ferry service buildings alongside an eclectic collection of outsider art. The winding outdoor trail is adorned with hundreds of ornate birdhouses, ceramic lawn decorations, bronze statues, and signs displaying various philosophical and religious messages. Additionally, live peacocks and chickens inhabit the area, adding to its distinctive charm. Atlas Obscura+1Atlas Obscura+1
Visitors can explore various art installations, including large animal sculptures made from welded horseshoes and fiberglass statues of African safari animals. A notable feature along the trail is a graveyard where Dr. Swayne is laid to rest, reflecting the personal history intertwined with the site. The museum and nature trail are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing a serene and thought-provoking experience for those interested in a fusion of natural beauty and artistic expression.
More Information
https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/cleo-s-ferry-museum-and-nature-trail
https://www.facebook.com/p/Cleos-Ferry-Museum-100066998720772
Coordinates: 43.341411, -116.599593
Elevation: 2280 ft
Difficulty: 1
What to Expect: No info
Check In
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GPS wanted me to do some trials riding to get on the de-facilitated bridge to cross back over the river. I thought maybe there would an easier route…
interesting place
Drove right past this one on my way to Givens Hot Springs. Pulled in 4 minutes before she shut the gate. Had to take a couple quick photos across the fence from the parking lot. I’ll have to come back and explore this one more, looks interesting.
Another site that I’ve passed by without knowing it was there. It’s located right next to Dan’s Ferry Service on the lower road next to it. Very interesting place with peacocks running about. It’s a very unique place to visit and walk about the grounds.
Welcome to Cleo’s Ferry Museum. It’s a funky little place with interesting structures and a nature trail. I’ll come back some day to explore further. Also, this was the last time I saw my bandana — I think I forgot to put it away and it blew off! I went to Map Rock next, and when I attempted to retrieve my bandana I realized I had lost it. Went all the way back to Cleo’s place and never found it. Bummer. Moral of the story: Stay hydrated!
Went here for the first time last year with my husband. What a fun place!
Stacy and I stopped in for a quick check in after the kickoff picnic, then came back with my mom and sister and did the nature walk
Didn’t know there was such a thing as white peacocks?
This is a cool unexpected site. Lots to see could spend a lot of time here and not see everything. Also has a nice walking loop trail.
This is a worthwhile destination to take the family for a picnic and a hike. I’m glad to learn about this interesting place.
Must have filled up 100 times, right next to this place, never knew it was there. Want to share this place with my wife. I think she would really enjoy it.
Hiked this as a family a number of times, well worth doing the entire hike.
I had no idea this place existed.
What a wild place this is! Like Map Rock, been by this place many times but never have seen it. I always stop at the store for junk food after dirt biking at Hemingway or Rabbit Creek. I’ll have to come back and spend more time there. Shots of Dan and ChillyPhilly as well….I had a great time with you guys!!
Great little walking trail with interesting things to look at. If you haven’t been here before, access is down and to the right of the gas station…it says “private road.” Keep going and you’ll see it.
This is a fun stop and a great little place to explore. We have been here a few times with family to walk around and see all the interesting buildings, and outdoor decorations. I love watching the peacocks which were very entertaining today. Beautiful day for a ride.