Pocatello and Beyond
A Southeast Idaho Adventure
Pocatello is a city rich with history, culture and outdoor recreation. But this is only the beginning of your journey. Set your sights on these exciting adventures near Pocatello and soak up all that southeast Idaho has to offer.
Pick a Town, and Start Exploring.
Minnetonka Cave, St. Charles. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Montpelier
Beach days, birdwatching and Butch Cassidy, oh my! From Wild West history to the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” the Montpelier area is brimming with adventures worthy of your next getaway.
Don’t Leave Town Without Visiting…
- Montpelier is just one of the many interesting stops you’ll find along the Oregon Trail—Bear Lake Scenic Byway. Pack your bags and prepare to experience a road trip filled with surprises and unbelievable views
- The National Oregon/California Trail Center gives visitors the opportunity to experience the frontier days. Join a simulated wagon train guided by a live cast of pioneers, stroll through a variety of exhibits and stop by the mercantile before you go.
- Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is an 18,000-acre area made up of cattail marsh, open water and flooded meadows. Home to sandhill cranes, herons and one of the largest Canada goose–producing areas in the western U.S., this is an excellent location for birdwatching.
- Enjoy Wild West history at the Butch Cassidy Museum at the Bank of Montpelier—the last standing bank in the world to be robbed by the infamous outlaw and his gang.
- Take a swing at Montpelier Golf Course. This par 36, nine-hole course boasts a full-length driving range and a large practice green, topped off with pristine mountain views.
- Home to Bear Lake, aka the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” Bear Lake State Park is a stunning destination if you’re looking for some sun and sand. Visit North Beach to swim, sail and paddle across the turquoise water.
- Head underground and take a guided tour through nine rooms of stalactites and stalagmites at Minnetonka Cave.
- Established in the 1860s, the Paris Tabernacle was built as a meetinghouse for Mormon settlers. Take a self-guided tour to learn more about the architecture of this historic building.
- Get a little taste of Hawaii at Ohana Island Grill. Chow down on savory teriyaki chicken and kalua pork, or sip on a signature drink like the Johnny Lingo, made with passion fruit, orange and guava. Or, dine at El Jaliciense, where you’ll find delicious Mexican cuisine like arroz con pollo and fajitas. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Papa’s Chocolates, where you can treat yourself to sinful, handmade creations like chocolate-covered caramel apples and toffee clusters.
There’s more to explore! Find more adventures in the area.
Lava Hot Springs Foundation World Famous Hot Pools, Lava Hot Springs. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Lava Hot Springs
If you’re on the hunt for family-friendly adventures, look no further than Lava Hot Springs. With soothing hot pools, golfing, zipline tours and horseback riding, there’s plenty to keep your crew entertained. The only question is, what should you do first?
Don’t Leave Town Without Visiting…
- Plan a family field trip and tour Historic Chesterfield. This former pioneer town has 27 original structures, including the Holbrook Mercantile, where you’ll find historic memorabilia. Free tours run Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Melt your stress away at the World Famous Lava Hot Springs hot pools and soak in five outdoor pools filled with all-natural mineral water. Just down the street, the Olympic Swimming Complex & Indoor Aquatic Center offers indoor and outdoor pools, speed slides and the Portneuf Kiddie Cove.
- The nine-hole Lava Hot Springs Golf Course not only presents a challenge to players of various skill levels, but it also showcases the landscapes of the Dempsey Creek Valley.
- Get ready for some sky-high thrills at Lava Zipline. Speed through the canyon on zip lines up to 2,000 feet long, then head over to the ropes course or climbing wall for even more heart-pumping excitement.
- The Portneuf River is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon with family and friends. Rent a tube and ride the rapids, or take it easy and fish for cutthroat and rainbow trout.
- Saddle up and ride through southeast Idaho’s rugged countryside with Lava Horseback Adventures.
- Stay out of the hangry zone and sink your teeth into mouthwatering steaks, fresh seafood and decadent seasonal desserts at Portneuf Grille & Lounge. Chuck Wagon Cafe also has plenty of hearty options, ranging from loaded hash browns to chicken-fried steak. Or, head to Sweet Stuff where you can sample some fudge or try a square-shaped scoop of ice cream.
There’s more to explore! Find more adventures in the area.
Idaho Potato Museum, Blackfoot. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Blackfoot
Snapping selfies in front of a giant potato and exploring Idaho’s largest butterfly house are just a few of the experiences waiting for you in Blackfoot, the “Potato Capital of the World.”
Don’t Leave Town Without Visiting…
- Pay homage to the almighty spud at the Idaho Potato Museum. Here, you’ll learn all about the potato industry and see the world’s largest potato crisp. One minute away is the Bingham County Historical Society Museum, where you can peruse Native American artifacts and period clothing.
- Visit The Butterfly Haven and encounter monarchs, giant swallowtails and other species, as well as caterpillars and birds.
- Spend a day experiencing the rugged wonders of Wolverine Canyon. Enjoy hiking and camping, and while you’re here, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like bald eagles!
- Grab your sunscreen and head to Jensen Grove Park for a day of swimming, boating and Jet Skiing. Or, take a leisurely stroll along the two-mile path that surrounds the lake.
- If your taste buds are ready for a culinary excursion, stop by Smokin’ Gun BBQ for some finger-lickin’ barbecue nachos, or bite into the Outlaw, a sandwich made with brisket, bacon, banana peppers and onion rings. Other local favorites include Melina’s Mexican Restaurant, which serves up delectable tostadas and queso fundido, and Rupe’s Burgers, an all-American eatery that serves juicy quarter-pounders and scrumptious milkshakes.
There’s more to explore! Find more adventures in the area.
Oneida Narrows, near Preston. Photo credit: Matt Linton/ Merlin Films, LLC.
Preston & Franklin
Connect with nature on a scenic hike or marvel at historic architecture as you stroll through Idaho’s oldest town. There’s plenty to discover in the towns of Preston and Franklin.
Don’t Leave Town Without Visiting…
- Treat yourself to a self-care getaway at Maple Grove Hot Springs, where you can unwind in soaking pools along the Bear River. Keep your hot spring streak going at Bear River Hot Springs, a natural mineral hot spring with four pools located north of Preston.
- Grab your hiking boots and explore the Willow Flats Springs Trail in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. This 4.8-mile out-and-back trail has sensational views and is great for those seeking a challenge.
- Founded in 1860, Franklin holds the distinction of being Idaho’s oldest town. Peruse the historic district to find local landmarks like the Franklin Mill House and the Franklin Relic Hall Museum & Historical Site.
- Franklin County is home to a variety of scenic fishing spots, including Oneida Narrows Reservoir, Glendale Reservoir and Foster Reservoir. Try your hand at reeling in yellow perch, rainbow trout and other species.
- Stop off at the Bear River Massacre Site to learn about this famous battle between the U.S. Army and the Shoshone.
- After a day of exploring, visit Hala Kahiki Shaved Ice, which offers tempting flavors like piña colada and red velvet cake. For a unique dining experience, try Mejia’s Mexican Food—a family-run eatery operating out of a school bus turned food truck. Dig into some adobada tacos, carne asada fries or loaded nachos.
There’s more to explore! Find more adventures in the area.
Can’t Get Enough of Southeast Idaho?
The adventure continues … Keep exploring and add one of these towns to your trip.