About
There's an outdoor destination rich with history, artistic creativity, and natural beauty. Welcome to the Cleo's Ferry Museum & Nature Trail.
Located at the historic Walter's Ferry Crossing, which operated from 1863 to 1921, this unique museum stands out with its original adobe brick building once used by the Ferry Master.
The property's transformation into a museum began decades ago when Dr. Samuel "Pappy" Swayne and his wife Cleo purchased it. After Pappy's passing in 1976, Cleo repurposed the area into the vibrant, eclectic oasis it is today.
The one-mile nature trail at Cleo's Ferry Museum is a journey through a mix of the bizarre and unique. Visitors are greeted by an array of sculptures, birdhouses, and other artistic pieces, each with its own story and charm.
The trail showcases large animal sculptures, an elaborate totem pole, and Pappy's grave, adding a personal touch to the experience.
The museum buildings operate seasonally, while the nature trail, situated along the picturesque Snake River, welcomes visitors during daylight hours all year round.
For a chance to explore nature, observe unique art pieces, and discover Idaho history, plan a trip to Cleo's Ferry Museum & Nature Trail on your Garden Valley visit.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
One of the trail's most striking features is its collection of birdhouses, each accompanied by a cute, funny, or inspirational quote. These birdhouses are perched atop every fence post along the path and embody the trail's whimsical and thoughtful nature.
Another unique aspect of Cleo's Ferry Museum & Nature Trail is its large concrete area filled with bronze statues depicting scenes from a bygone American era. These statues, reminiscent of Norman Rockwell paintings, evoke nostalgia and a connection to a past that feels both unfamiliar and intimately known.
The museum, established by Cleo Swayne, evolved from her collection of birdhouses and various items she began collecting in the 1960s. Her collection grew to encompass hundreds of pieces displayed on the grounds of her home.
Fueled by passion and creativity, this personal project eventually became a public attraction after her passing in 2007, when the museum was donated to the City of Melba.
Getting There
Here are your step-by-step driving directions from Boise to Cleo's Ferry Museum & Nature Trail:
- Get on I-184 W from S Capitol Blvd.
- Take I-84 W to Nampa.
- Take exit 38 from I-84 W towards Garrity Blvd.
- Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto E Flamingo Ave (signs for Nampa/Murphy).
- Continue onto 11th Ave N.
- Turn right onto 6th St S.
- Continue onto 12th Ave Rd.
- Continue onto S Powerline Rd.
- Turn right onto ID-45 S.
- Drive south on ID-45 S for approximately 15 miles.
- Look out for Dan's Ferry Service convenience store on your left.
- After passing Dan's Ferry Service, turn left onto a gravel road that runs downhill.
- Follow this road until you reach Cleo's Ferry Museum and Nature Trail.
- Address: 1984 ID-45, Melba, ID 83641
Cost
The best part about Cleo's Ferry Museum & Nature Trail is that there is no admission fee.
Local Tips
- Cleo's Ferry Museum and Nature Trail can be tricky to spot. Look for a downhill gravel road beside a convenience store off Highway 45. This road leads directly to the parking area where the trail begins.
- Check their Facebook page for special events and holiday specials.
- Dogs, even service dogs, are not allowed on the trail to ensure the safety of the free-roaming peafowl and other wildlife like deer, foxes, and birds that inhabit the area.
- If visiting in the fall, you might catch the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic, a hot air balloon festival in nearby Boise. This can be an excellent addition to your trip.