Category: Things To Do

Whitney was the boyhood home of Ezra Taft Benson who served as Secretary of Agriculture in the Eisenhower Administration, and as President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from 1985 to 1994. The home in which he was raised and the red gambrel roofed barn sill stand on…

Come walk the recently built Holmgren Nature Preserve Trail complete with interpretive and educational signs. This is the first of a planned trail system within the Malad River Corridor. The preserve is 14.23 acres of ground in and around the wetlands of the Malad River and is 10′ wide and is…

The village of Franklin is the oldest European-American settlement in Idaho, having been established in April, 1860 by Mormon pioneers moving northward from Utah. The Relic Hall, a museum of local history, is housed in a log building that was built as a museum in 1937 as homage to the…

Camping is a very popular activity in the Bear River Heritage Area. Here you can purchase locally made canvas tipis, tents and camp supplies. Red Hawk made the world’s largest tipi for use at the Salt Lake City 2002 Winter Olympics. They also specialize in making reproduction tents that are…

This block housed the first department store in Idaho, the Evans Co-op, which was part of the Mormon cooperative movement of the 1860s, in which local production and purchasing was encouraged through cooperatives. The block, including both the co-op building and the old J.N. Ireland Bank, is on the National…

Clarence Hughes runs this charming 1892 store, which was moved to the town park in Samaria to keep it from being torn down. It’s a popular hangout for school kids and farmers in the afternoon. He sells local crafts, cookbooks, candy and sodas, and has video rentals. Historic photos and newspaper…

Originally built as a meeting place for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Smithfield Tabernacle now acts as a recreational Youth Center for the town. It has a new gym with seating and a kitchen for events. Construction on the tabernacle started in 1883 but…

Lava Hot Springs is a community rich in western history. The abundance of natural resources in the region such as the odor-free mineral hot springs, plentiful wildlife, and water supplies attracted many Native American tribes who welcomed the opportunity to bathe, rest and worship in an area regarded by all…

This old-time mercantile was owned by Mary and Kim Thomas, who took over the business from Kim's parents. The Swan Lake post office was inside and they had a large selection of fabrics and tools for quilting. The owners say that Thomas Mercantile has had the same phone number since…

This preserve established by the Nature Conservancy protects travertine terraces and crystal clear pools and a unique wetland complex at the base of the scenic Aspen Mountains. The cold springs that feed the terraced pools and creek system deposit high concentrations of travertine (calcium carbonate), which gives the site its…

Built from 1903 to 1905, the historic Old Hyrum First Ward Meetinghouse is a striking example of late Gothic Revival Style, and remains a prominent feature of the Hyrum landscape. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this building represents the local community in its materials and work ethic.

The City of Rocks National Reserve features granite spires and monoliths reaching 60 stories tall. Geologists estimate the oldest granite to exceed 2.5 billion years. Established in 1988 as a national reserve, City of Rocks encompasses 14,407 acres of land (about one quarter is privately owned) and is renowned for…

Located on Main Street in Tremonton, Utah, this museum features exhibits on the history of Bear River Valley as well as current artists from the area. Highlights include an exhibit on the Candy Bomber and the Bolgstrom Brothers as well as the Main Street Playhouse that is located above the…

In operation since 1937, Peach City has been serving up tasty burgers and delicious shakes for over 65 years. Locally owned by the Morgan brothers, Harvey and Blynn, this local hangout serves over 20 flavors of homemade ice cream. The house specialties are the Big Joe burger and peach shakes…

This is a small house with a big story. The Old Rock House, built in 1896 from rocks originally quarried for a railroad round house, was saved from eventual destruction by the loving care and hard work of its latest owner, Anna Beauregard. The house was built by William Hopkins….

The Bear Lake Overlook and Visitors Center provides not only clean restrooms and informational materials, but it also provides a stunning view of Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. Visit the center to learn more about the history and geology of the lake as well as local events and heritage…

This theatre was built in 1913 by the Thatchers, a locally prominent family who loved plays and operas. A wing was added in 2001, and the building was beautifully refurbished. A ghost that is partial to Shakespeare is said to haunt the theatre. Actors who have worked here claim that…

This building was built of local lava rock in 1902. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is currently used as the local Scout House for boys and girls.

Founded in 1970, the Brigham City Museum of Art & History is a regional art and history center. The important pioneer history of Brigham City is told with hands-on exhibits and Daughters of the Utah Pioneers' artifacts. Eliza's Attic is an introduction to the settlement's lifestyle while the interactive tool area…

The Daughters of Utah Pioneers built this museum in 1983. It features pioneer artifacts, Native American artifacts, and other relics found in the area left by the travelers on the Oregon Trail which went through Soda Springs.

This monument honors the birthplace of Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor of Mount Rushmore. Borglum was born in St. Charles, Idaho in 1867. His marble head sculpture of Abraham Lincoln is on display in the Capitol Rotunda. Gutzon Borglum's Wars of America, a bronze sculpture of 42 humans and two horses,…

This Romanesque-style Mormon tabernacle was constructed in 1889 of red sandstone from a quarry 18 miles away. This place of worship is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is still used by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A small museum houses heirlooms…

This small pioneer building is over 125 years old and in its early days functioned as a school, local chapel, and meeting hall. In 1966, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gave the building to the Daughters of Utah Pioneers who renovated it to create a pioneer relic…

The intersection of US Hwy 89 and US Hwy 30 at Montpelier is the site of the attractive National Oregon-California Trail Center dedicated to the history and scenic wonders of the 2000-mile Oregon-California Trail, part of the largest voluntary migration ever. The sites in this area are documented in diaries of the emigrants, in military records,…

This site offers Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle (winter), Cinnamon Teal and Sandhill Crane. Directions on how to get there are available on the website. Take the Corrine exit off I-15.  When you get into the town of Corrine follow the signs that point you in the direction of the Golden…

The Thatcher-Young Mansion was built in 1878 by G.W. Thatcher and his wife Mary Ann Angell-Young. The designer of the home is believed to be Mary Ann’s cousin, Truman Angell Jr., who designed the LDS tabernacles in Brigham City and Coalville, Utah, and in Paris, Idaho, as well as the…

Down through the years, the Pie Dump has been the hot spot for teens attending the local high school. The Pie Dump began during the Depression era, and was owned by Leland Hansen. He and his wife sold specialty candies and pies and called it the Pie Dump from the…

This tabernacle was once used as a meeting house by early members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons). It was built in 1908 and reflects Mormon architecture at the beginning of the twentieth century. Its Gothic English architecture and chapel with balcony, wooden benches and slanting…

This working family farm was homesteaded in 1896 under the Homestead Act. The farmstead is on the National Register of Historic Places due to its unusual dairy barn that retains hay storage and dairy operations under one roof. Most dairy operations in the state either had separate buildings for each…

The museum has one of the largest permanent collections in the Intermountain Region, featuring western and international artists, a fine ceramics collection, and Native American Artwork. Regularly changing exhibits bring a variety of fine arts and crafts to patrons.

This old Mormon meetinghouse is built of local stone and nestled in the pleasant community of Providence, just south of Logan. Built in 1871, the Old Rock Church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is affectionately known as the Old Rock Church. An addition to the Old Rock Church,…

Five miles west of Soda Springs is a great stone bluff rising several hundred feet above the Bear River. This is the point at which the Bear makes its sweeping left turn, around the base of Sheep Rock, and heads back south toward the Great Salt Lake. Geologically, it marks…

Beginning in September, local potato farmers sell their newly harvested potatoes in fifty pound bags. Watch for opportunities to buy real Idaho spuds at roadside stands often found along State Highway 34, near Grace, Idaho, or along US Highway 91 in Preston.

Whether you come for our first-class snowmobiling, mountain horseback rides, a family reunion or business retreat, Beaver Creek Lodge is the place for you. Located in beautiful Logan Canyon, Beaver Creek Lodge is 27 miles east of Logan Utah along scenic US Highway 89.

Martin Harris is an important figure in the history and heritage of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as LDS or Mormon). Martin Harris was one of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon, meaning he swore to seeing the gold plates from which the…

This old store in Henry, Idaho, was originally built as a trading post for Native Americans, trappers, and later gold miners from Caribou Mountain. It is also known as Chester Store by locals after one of the owners. The original building was destroyed by fire, and the current building was…

Lau Family Farms have been direct marketing grass-fed beef and lamb since July of 2004. John Lau is the fifth generation to live here, and his ancestors were one of four families sent by the Mormon Church to settle Soda Springs. The farm was established in 1882, and has received…

This is a popular birding area with song birds, birds of prey, marine birds, marsh birds, water fowl, nesting sandhill Cranes and Trumpeter Swans. Visit this site any season but winter.

Built by Thomas Sleight in 1863, this is the only remaining cabin from the first winter pioneers spent in the area. The cabin was moved from its original location and now serves as a public park. Come see the historic cabin and enjoy Paris' historic downtown.

This wetlands area offers song birds, shore birds, marine birds, marsh birds, water fowl, and Sandhill Cranes. Visit this site any season but winter. 1 mile east of Oxford, Idaho. Take Westside Highway north, from Dayton or south from Swan Lake.

The Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located on the north shore of Bear Lake.  Over 18,050 acres of the Dingle Swamp, open water and grasslands have been dedicated to preserving bird and wildlife habitat. The reserve is home to sandhill cranes, herons, snowy egret, white pelicans, Canada geese and…

Cutler Marsh was created by the shallow water of the Bear River at the head of the Cutler Reservoir. It is best viewed from the bridges where roads cross the marsh, and the boat docks (restroom here), or by canoe. Expect many waterfowl and shorebirds. A 2.5 mile loop trail…

Limber Pine Nature Trail 004 Trailheads: Limber Pine Nature Trail, Bear Lake summit on US 89 about 30.7 miles from Logan Elevation Start/Middle/End:7800/7880/7800 feet Length: 1.3 mile round trip Ref map (7.5 min): Garden City Features: A short walk with an elevation change of about 80 feet attained by a…

Known as the crown jewel of the Bear River Range, this glacial lake greets visitors with an explosion of summer wildflowers and lush green plants. Tony Grove was formed by powerful and slow-moving glaciers, as evidenced by the huge boulders deposited around the lake. Moose are often spotted taking advantage…

Riverside Nature Trail is one of the best birding spots in Logan Canyon. Look for Fox Sparrow, Orange-crowned Warbler, Hermit and Swainson's Thrush, Gray Catbird, Lazuli Bunting, Lincoln's Sparrow, Warbling Vireo, and Cordileran Flycatcher. Near Spring Hollow Campground is a small reservoir good for viewing Barrow's and Common Goldeneye during winter….

Group lodging for Family Reunions, Workshop Retreats and large gatherings in the historic 1927 Browning Building, known today as the "Bear Lake Hermitage" in Paris, Idaho.

Located in Wasatch-Cache National Forest, this underground cave experience is one for the entire family. Its natural stalagmites, stalactites, and banded travertine have been forming for thousands of years and were discovered by Europeans in 1906. The cave is administered by the US Forest Service.

This rich hand-dipped chocolate candy shouldn’t be missed! The company has been in business since 1914. A second location is in the Albertsons shopping center at 49 East 400 North, just north of Juniper Take-out and east of Zion's bank.

The Hyrum City museum is in the beautiful new Hyrum City Library/Museum complex. The building was completed in May of 2007. Learn about the history of the Hyrum Utah area. Call for more information or to arrange a visit.

This beautiful reservoir is surrounded by ranches and farmland and features many fishing opportunities. Some of the fish you can find here are rainbow trout, largemouth bass and cutthroat trout. Be aware that no watercrafts of any kind are allowed on this reservoir.

Located in St. Charles, Idaho, the Bear Lake State Park Visitor Center provides brochures and recreational material for visitors in the area. They also host local events like the Bear Lake Monster Mash Fall Festival.

Corrigan Park is located in downtown Soda Springs, Idaho, on the north side of US Highway 30/State Highway 34. It is a pleasant spot to stop and have lunch. While there, you can visit the Galloping Goose and the Dinky Engine, two locomotives that have a part in the history…

The Whittier School was built in 1908 and holds school day memories for many locals. It was purchased from Logan School district in 1992 and has undergone various rehabilitative projects. Each year, another goal is met in keeping up with building standards to make sure that the Whittier School is…

Located about 10 miles from the mouth of the beautiful Paris Canyon, the Paris Ice Cave has ice that never melts even in the hottest summer! Visitors can explore the main cave by following a trail next to the Paris Ice Cave sign. The best times to visit the cave…

This teaching museum houses exhibits on the early inhabitants of the Great Basin and other regions of the world. Admission is free, and docent guidance or self-guided exploration is available.

Outside of Weston, Idaho, and on the way to the Weston Reservoir, there is a historical site known as the Pass of the Standing Rock. This site was sacred to the Shoshone and other Native American tribes and became a landmark for early pioneers. The giant rock stands nearly 100…

This farm and ranch supply business was founded in 1914, and has always housed dry goods or mercantile. J.M. Roylance bought it in 1919, and his son still runs it. Just strolling through the aisles of this 100+ year old building is an experience you wouldn't want to miss. The store stocks everything from…

Visit “Old Town” Montpelier, take photos of the wooden carved bears, where signs in front of the buildings describe the history of the area. Look for the Bank of Montpelier, which was robbed by Butch Cassidy in 1896. Cassidy and his pals got away with over $16,000. The Montpelier Historic…

Built in 1930, having a rich history in Preston, Idaho, the Worm Creek Opera House, formerly known as The Grand Theatre, and provides movies and live performances in Franklin County, Idaho. In 1986, the Theatre was a vacant building that had not been used for several years. Under the direction…

The only national grassland in the intermountain West, the Curlew National Grassland was established in 1960 to improve soil and vegetation and promote sound agricultural practices. The land was cultivated and farmed in the early 1900s, and you can still see evidence of many old homesteads in the area. The…

Stockman's Bar no longer offers food, but it does host pool tables and drinks in a rustic historic bar.

In business since 1914, this historic café has seen much business done over a cup of coffee and a handshake. Stop in for a cool drink at the old soda fountain. A mural in the back room depicts local history and predictions for Logan’s future. Temporarily closed for renovation.

The Idan-ha theatre was originally built in 1924 as a vaudeville house and has undergone significant renovations since. It is now a working theater showing popular films. Across the street are many other historic buildings like the Enders Hotel which features a museum about the area. They also have historic…

Octagon Spring is one of the hundreds of mineral springs in Soda Springs. This spring, like others in the area, is naturally carbonated. The Idan-ha Hotel used to be across the street before it burned down in 1921 making this a popular site for visitors. The water is carbonated and…

This small museum hosts historic artifacts and photos from Paris, Idaho area. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, you can call Janelle Mattson at 208-945-2549 or Ann Massey at 208-945-2047.

Samaria, about 9 miles southwest of Malad, was once the largest town in the Malad Valley. Settled in 1868 by homesteaders, the town did well until the railroad was routed through Malad. After that, the primary businesses developed around the railroad terminal, and Samaria remained a farming community. A number…

You can find a variety of old and new style headstones in this cemetery, including a headstone for a man’s amputated leg. In 1878, Ben Waldron lost his leg in a threshing accident. The leg was buried on the east side of the cemetery and was given a headstone with…

Stylish Fabrics opened in the 1960s, supplying patterns and fabric for clothing. Today, the shop specializes in fabric and batting for quilt making, a well-developed local craft. Their inventory is so complete and high quality that they have many out-of-state customers who send for materials here. Stylish Fabrics also sells…

The Hatch house is a Greek Revival style house built with local limestone in 1872 by Lorenzo H. Hatch, one of the earliest settlers of Franklin. A carpenter and farmer, he was the first Mormon Idaho legislator and served as mayor and Mormon bishop of Franklin. Since Hatch was the local bishop, he built…

Since 1944, Mim's Bar and Grill has been serving delicious cheese burgers and home cut fries. Mim's buys their beef locally and the onions for the burgers come from Box Elder County farms. Winter or summer, stop by on your next bike tour, and enjoy refreshing cold beer at the…

Printable walking tour of historic sites and buildings in the city of Providence, Utah. Download their walking tour brochure.

Utah and Southeastern Idaho were settled first by the Shoshone. Today’s Shoshone are especially well-known for their beadwork. Stop by the offices of the Northwestern Band and get information on events and artisans from Patty Timbimboo-Madsen, Cultural and Natural Resource Director.

The Richmond Relief Society Hall is a historic Latter-day Saint building in Richmond, Utah. It was built during 1880 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is one of the oldest known Relief Society Halls still remaining in Utah. Currently, the building is closed for remodeling.

In 1913 this building housed a doctor's office and general store. It has seen various owners and uses since then, until 1964, when Sam Krebbs bought the store and established Sam's Market, a mainstay in the community of Grace.

At Rockhill Creamery artisan cheeses are made with raw milk from the farm's Brown Swiss cows, using traditional artisan techniques. Located in Richmond, 12 miles north of Logan, the farmstead is listed on the National Historic Register, and was honored at the 2007 Utah Heritage Foundation Awards for best adaptive use of an…

This reservoir is a great place for boating, fishing, swimming, and birdwatching. Local fiah include rainbow trout, channel catfish, blue gill, perch and small mouth bass. It has two boat access ramps with docks at Oregon Trail Park and Marina, located just off of Hwy 30 and two day use…

Located in the historic Cache County Courthouse, the Visitors Bureau and Gift Shop is the perfect place to discover local events, products, and sights. They host a range of products from sweatshirts to books to games as well as brochures for every historical site and spot of interest in and…

The town of Corinne, Utah, was established in 1869 and for about a decade, it was known as “The Gentile Capital of Utah.” In Utah, the common use of the term “gentile” usually refers to non-Mormons rather than non-Jews, though it is used both ways. The town was established to…

Folk art at its best! Artistry in iron etches the skyline with prancing horses, wagons, and wheels. Have a picnic lunch or barbecue while your kids enjoy the playground, and view a display of horse-drawn wagons and equipment. Look for pieces like the Utah History timeline and the Bicentennial arch–all…

This beautiful 450-acre man-made lake offers boating, year-round fishing, waterskiing, camping, and swimming. Facilities include a 32-unit campground with one ADA site, modern restrooms, showers, a concrete boat ramp, and a sandy beach. A group camping area is available by reservation for reunions and parties. The park is located only…

Built on “Sagebrush Hill,” on a site chosen in 1865 by Brigham Young himself, this tabernacle took nearly fifteen years to build, then it was gutted by fire in 1896. The formerly somewhat plain building was rebuilt with a Gothic Revival tower and sixteen pinnacles. Free guided tours are available…

Natural hot water flows year round through the large swimming pool and hot pools at Downata Hot Springs. The clubhouse provides changing room and lockers plus a café and game room. A zero depth water playground with water toys is popular with children. Two large hydrotube rides thrill all ages….

General Patrick Edward Connor, with California and Nevada volunteers, was ordered by President Lincoln to protect the overland travel routes in the West. (This is the same Connor who led his troops to slaughter upwards of 300 Shoshone Indians at the Bear River Massacre in January, 1863. Please see the…

Drive north from Brigham City along Highway 38 and you will see many late-nineteenth-century stone houses built from locally-quarried stone and generally reflecting vernacular building styles of the period. These charming private residences were built by pioneers and are now a part of the picturesque scenery on the drive between…

The first designated historic district in Utah, the Willard district reflects the Welsh heritage of many of the earliest settlers. The main builder of the homes was Shadrach Jones, a Welsh stonemason, and the homes are mainly Greek Revival and Gothic in style, forming the largest grouping of pioneer stone…

This historic theater was built in 1913 by the Thatchers, a prominent family who loved plays and operas. A wing was added onto the theatre in 2001 and the building was beautifully refurbished. The theatre is home to a summer repertory season and other performances during the year. The beautiful building…

Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area (WMA) was purchased by the State of Utah in 1945 as a location to operate a winter feeding program for Rocky Mountain Elk. Hardware Ranch WMA also provides habitat for many other species of wildlife, promotes wildlife research and management, and offers visitors recreational wildlife…

All 45 birding sites are listed and each species is indexed on the chart in the publications Birding Trails in Southeast Idaho Map & Guide.

Located in Logan Canyon, Ricks Spring is a karst spring, meaning it is a natural water outflow from a cave. This spring features informational signs that describe its history as well as a warning not to drink the water. You can explore a smaller cave off to the side, or…

Bear River Meadows / Crawford Mountain Road is for the birdwatcher. This site offers Sandhill Crane, Long-billed Curlew, and American Bittern.

Local and regional railroad history and artifacts. Located downstairs in the National Oregon/California Trail Center.

This changing gallery features the work of student artists. Twain Tippetts was invited to join the faculty at Utah State University in 1956 as head of the Fine Arts Department that included the academic units of visual art, theater and music. Through the years he headed the university's cultural arts…

Family owned and operated, the Baugh Motel was built in 1957 on the site of an old trolley car depot and is reminiscent of 1950's brick roadside architecture. The registration office in an old gas station. The rock-walled ruins of a flour mill can be seen on the northwest corner…

This is a geological site with ancient volcanic flows and rhyolite domes. This area also features farmland and sagebrush steppe. The best time to visit is during spring and fall and is a great birdwatching spot. This is a stop along the Pioneer Historic National Scenic Byway.

Geothermal activity is evident throughout this region, and hot springs can be found in numerous locations along the western slopes of the Wasatch Mountains.  Crystal Hot Springs is a resort built around one of these natural hot springs 13 miles north of Brigham City in the town of Honeyville. It is…

In 1920 the Morgan Pea Factory, located on the west side of Main Street in Smithfield, began business. It was later bought by Del Monte Foods and has since been turned into a can-making factory. Look for the brick building with the original name built into the masonry.

The Oregon Short Line Company was established in 1878 to provide the Union Pacific Railroad access to the Pacific Northwest. The company announced in 1906 that it would construct a modern new depot in Brigham City. The depot was completed and opened to the public on May 19, 1907.

Since 1949, the Maddox family has been serving delicious home cooked meals. Famous for their home-grown beef, Maddox also serves bison (less fat than regular beef-give it a try!), chicken, and fresh seafood. Now in their third generation, everything on the menu is made from scratch, including breads, rolls, ice…

In 1881-1882, Mormon settlers came to this area north of Bancroft at the invitation of their friend and relative Chester Call, who had established a ranch nearby. Their hope was to build a thriving community, but in 1882, the Oregon Short Line Railroad was built through Bancroft instead of their…

This 1895 Gothic style church in Soda Springs Idaho is built of local lava rock.  In 1895 Captain John Codman donated the land, and a house, to the effort, and this building was raised.  Total cost of the construction and furnishing of the church amounted to $3,671.35. The church is still…

Previously Riverdale Resort, Bear River Hot Springs features a large outdoor swimming pool and hot tubs fed by natural hot water, including a therapeutic jetted tub. A waterslide pool and children’s pool make this a good family outing. A gaming room and snack bar complement the changing and locker rooms….

This family-owned company was founded in 1966 by Edwin Gossner, a cheesemaker from Switzerland who came to Cache Valley to start a cheese business because he felt the conditions here were ideal, similar to those in Switzerland. The company specializes in several varieties of cheese, plus shelf-stable milk-a form of…

Come pick your own fruit according to your discerning taste. Indulge your senses with decadent blackberries, raspberries, grapes, peaches and apples. Mt. Naomi Farms in Hyde Park is established on land that belonged to the Meikle family as far back as 65 years ago. Historically a dairy, the farm is…

Nestled in a shaded and quiet court and within walking distance of Logan's historic tabernacle and LDS Temple, Logan Anniversary Inn provides uniquely decorated rooms and quality lodging in its historic buildings.

L. D. Bowcutt started L.D.'s Cafe 45 years ago. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, L.D.'s is a favorite of many valley residents. Weekends are popular at L.D.'s with their steak and shrimp dinners. Stop by on St. Patrick's Day and try the traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage dinner and green…

Deer Cliff Inn sits right on the scenic Cub River, and has been family owned and operated since 1940. They serve steak, seafood, local trout, and their famous roasted chicken and honey buttered scones. They also feature entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights. Their regular season is from May to October, but…

The Tabernacle was completed in 1891 and is a striking example of an early Mormon pioneer public meetinghouse.  A beautiful pipe organ was installed in 1908 and the building is used for Church conferences, community concerts, and other presentations.  An extensive genealogy library is located in the basement of the…

The town of Malad got its name from the fact that when Donald McKenzie brought a party of trappers through the area between 1818 and 1821, they drank the river water and got sick. The Frenchmen named the river the Malad, meaning illness. The town was settled in 1862, after…

A summer cabin was built in 1870 for Latter-day Saint (Mormon) Church President Brigham Young. The cabin was used for many years as a stopping place for Young and other church leaders as they traveled through the area doing church business. The home was destroyed in 1944 in an attempt…

The Hyrum City Museum has a historic tour of Hyrum, Utah, available on their website. Follow this map to see and learn about the historic houses, churches, and landmarks in Hyrum.

In business since 1955, the Malad Drive-In features scones and fresh strawberry shakes in addition to the usual drive-in fare of burgers, fries and the like. And they still come to your car to take your order!

The Oneida Stake Academy was one of many schools founded by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was started in 1888 in Franklin, Idaho. When the time came in 1889 to build a building for the academy, Preston was chosen as the location because it was centrally…

A 4.2 mile paved walking and biking trail that goes from Bear Lake State Park Marina to Ideal Beach with interpretive signs and park benches. Access the trail from any point along the route.

On May 10, 1869, the final spike was driven, completing the transcontinental railroad and revolutionizing travel across North America. Visit Golden Spike National Historic Site, and witness historic reenactments and locomotive demonstrations, and participate in ranger programs and films. You can take a self-guided auto tour over historic railroad grades. Within…

Nesting Species include Black-headed Grosbeak, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Gray Catbird, Yellow Warbler, and Song Sparrow: Bonaparte's Gull, Bald Eagle, Common Tern, Hooded Merganser, and Common Loon in the fall and early winter. Visit this site any season. Get more information about Willard Bay on their website listed below. Boat, swim, water…

Many beautiful turn-of-the-century homes and buildings are located in Logan. You won’t want to miss the Bluebird Café, the Logan Tabernacle, or the Episcopal Church. A 45-minute downtown walking tour guide can be picked up at tourist information center located in the Historic County Courthouse. The Logan Center Street Historic…

Trail Creek offers eleven rooms in a lodge, and amenities like a hot tub, sauna, and satellite big screen TV. You can get breakfast service or group meals, or you can prepare your own meals. Outdoor recreation opportunities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, and fishing. Camping and RV hookups…

View mountain man and early pioneer relics and enjoy reading historical accounts of Cache Valley natives. Open June to September (Labor Day) or other times of the year by appointment

Malad Valley Heritage Square is a wonderful collection of Pioneer era cabins, an old fashioned Ice Cream store, covered wagons and farm machinery. It includes the Osmond Family Homestead. Free Self Guided Tours daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. Children must be accompanied by an adult. They hold several old…

Artifacts from the early history of Paradise and southern Cache Valley are preserved in this museum which is housed in the old Mormon tithing office.

In the early 1900s the Hopkins family homesteaded the site where this hot springs was developed, and for many years it was known to locals as Hopkins Hot Springs. You can read about the interesting history of this family and the original uses of the site at the front desk…

In Lewiston, Utah, there is the historic Wheeler Cabin run by the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. To tour the cabin, you can call the phone numbers listed.

This is a branch of the Oregon Trail. On July 19, 1849, Benoni M. Hudspeth, captain of a wagon train headed for California, and John Myers, the wagon train’s guide, decided to open a new wagon route to shorten the northern and more established route through Fort Hall. Instead of…

Located in Box Elder County, this park displays dozens of missiles and rockets outside a testing facility. ATK Launch Systems, (formerly Thiokol), founded in 1929 as Thiokol Chemical Corporation, is the world’s largest producer of high-technology solid rocket motors for space, defense, and commercial uses. They produce the giant solid…

On August 13, 1896, Butch Cassidy and two other men robbed the Montpelier Bank, the first bank in southeastern Idaho. Located in Montpelier's historic downtown, the Butch Cassidy Museum is located in the original bank and allows visitors to walk through and see the vault! The museum has free admission,…

The Lodge Motel is situated in the center of Garden City, Utah on the shore of beautiful Bear Lake. All of Garden City's shops and eateries are within a short walking distance from your motel room. Pet friendly rooms offered year-round.

Emerging at 118 degrees Fahrenheit, the mineral water at Bear Lake Hot Springs is cooled as it is pumped from the mountain into the tubs. Characteristics similar to those of Lava Hot Springs to the northwest can be found in this water. Individuals from all around the area drive to…

In Caribou County, this Ranger Station manages the activities of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Books, maps, travel and recreation information are available.

Bear Lake has four species of fish that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, with the Bonneville Cisco being the most well known. It is an annual ritual for many people to come during the cold month of January, hoping to net some of these little fish through…

Birding is good all the way up High Creek to the trailhead at the roads end. Look for Winter Wren (June), American Dipper, Plumbeous Vireo, and Western Tanger. The scenery is also outstanding. Several trails depart from the trailhead and provide access the high mountain habitats within Mount Naomi Wilderness….

The Amalga Barrens is a salt playa wetlands habitat several square miles in area with little human activity. Expect to see marsh birds, birds of prey, and many shorebirds. This site is on private lands, so please stay on the road to view wildlife. It's located in the center of…

Walton Feed has been in business since 1962 in Montpelier Idaho. They serve ranchers and farmers all over Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada. Over the years they have made feed for everything from chickens to buffalo.

In Bear Lake County, manages the activities of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Books, maps, travel and recreation information available. Located in the Oregon-California Trail Center at 322 North 4th Street, Montpelier, Idaho.

Weston Creek Reservoir is a beautiful spot just 15 minutes outside of Malad, Idaho. You can enjoy fishing and birdwatching. No fishing from boats or rafts allowed, but you can have float tubes. Visit this site in the spring and summer as it is closed off during the winter.

This business has been owned by the same family since it was founded in 1929. The intermountain area, with its dry climate, is considered one of the best areas for production of low-moisture honey that stores well. A glass observation hive on the premises allows visitors to watch the bees…

The Caribou County Courthouse in Soda Springs, Idaho, was built in 1919. It is in Classical Revival style and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are historical artifacts on display on the second floor including a large collection of arrowheads.

This local museum is housed in a building that was built in 1914 as a drug store. The original safe and pressed-tin ceiling are still intact. The museum had its origins in a collection of mementos gathered by Miss Hattie Morgan and the Native Daughters of the Idaho Pioneers group…

The James and Drusilla Hendrick's Camp Relic Hall is run by the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. Early Mormon, Native American, and other local history artifacts are preserved in this museum. Originally built for a Latter-day Saint Stake President as an office, the building is now owned by the city. The…

Birdwatchers can expect to see the Double-crested Cormorant, and the Dusky Flycatcher. There is also a campground next to the reservoir. For more birding, drive up either Old or New Canyon west of the reservoir.

This Utah Century Farm, established in 1904 by William Zollinger, a Swiss-German immigrant to Cache Valley, was  always known as a fruit farm throughout the years. William Zollinger established one of the first apple orchards in Cache Valley. When grandson Ron Zollinger took over the the management of the family…

Without the extensive networks of irrigation canals created by settlers of this region, farming as it now exists would have been impossible in this arid area. Residents created cooperatives to organize the use of the water, with families owning shares that gave them the right to irrigate their land on…

This reservoir features many types of birds, such as song birds, upland birds, marsh birds, water fowl, and more. Visit this site in spring and summer.

Interested in horse-drawn vehicles? Western filmmakers are! You won’t want to miss the largest private collection in the West. By appointment only, but their website hosts a virtual tour as well.

Lucin, a small settlement that served a stretch of the Southern Pacific Railroad that is now abandoned is a west desert oasis sometimes referred to as a "warbler trap." At first glance Lucin looks like a small pond with some surrounding trees, but it is much more, especially during spring…

This site offers song birds, birds of prey, marine birds, marsh birds, and water fowl. There is also camping and restrooms available here. Visit this site any season.

Find out about your family history at this fascinating center, which has computers that tie into the famous genealogy library located in Salt Lake City. Just type in your name, and find a long-lost relative! You can also reserve a time to digitize materials such as VHS and cassette tapes….

This old cemetery is home to several interesting graves. The Wagon Box Grave is the 1861 burial site of an Oregon Trail emigrant family of seven killed by Indians and buried together in the wagon box from their covered wagon. You can also find a Morrisite headstone. The Morrisites were…

The old Village Hall and Jail are part of the Franklin Historic District in the small town of Franklin, Idaho.

The Largilliere Carriage House is listed on the National Register of Historic places and is located in downtown Soda Springs, Idaho. It was built in 1899 by August Largilliere, a wealthy immigrant who built and started multiple businesses in Soda Springs; this historic home is one of the few remaining…

A delightful family operated theatre that features “mellerdramers” and other productions suitable for any audience, along with a meal for any appetite before the show. And yes, there really was a town called Pickleville, right here! It was named after Warren W. Pickle, who secured funding for a culinary water…

The Bluebird Inn is an old homestead overlooking Bear Lake, with lush gardens and an outdoor hot tub. There are five charming rooms, each with a fireplace, and your stay includes a full breakfast in the sunny dining room.

On January 29, 1863, Colonel Patrick E. Connor led a group of California Volunteers from Fort Douglas (Salt Lake City) in search of Shoshone Indians responsible for raids on settlers. The Indians had been pushed out of more and more of their lands in northern Utah, and some of them…

London Drug is independently owned and operated. They offer the same quality products and value prices of chain drug stores. Established in 1950, this is the place to get frozen homemade pie dough for perfect pies!

Amble through the cattails and learn about wetlands ecology on this short boardwalk from Garden City Park to the lake shore.

Local actors and actresses put on theater productions, and cowboy poetry is also hosted here.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Temple is an easily visible icon of the Cache Valley landscape. The edifice was designed by Mormon architect Truman O. Angell, and built from 1877-1884 by the donated labor of early pioneers. The modified Gothic building rests on a terrace of the ancient Lake Bonneville, and…

With the goal of appreciation and education about Welsh settlement in Malad Valley, the Welsh Society was formed in 2004. Malad is a natural location for a Welsh festival as it has the largest per capita concentration of persons of Welsh ancestry outside Wales itself. The Welsh Society has the following goals:…

This two room log cabin houses artifacts and information about early Mormon leaders. Wilford Woodruff, the third president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints lived here. The building now serves as a visitors information centers. Tours of the cabin are available.

Ranger districts typically manage recreation facilities and activities, handle special permits, and sponsor interpretive education programs. Stop by the Logan Ranger District and Visitor Center to load up on maps, get acquainted with recreation opportunities, check on current conditions, and learn more about how to keep the forest healthy. The…

In the 1860s, Brigham Young instituted what came to be known as the “cooperative movement” in Utah. With the new transcontinental railroad came goods made elsewhere, and the church leaders feared that materialism and covetousness would grow among the Mormons. A system of businesses owned cooperatively was created, with existing…

This nearly century old building was always used as a cooperative mercantile serving the folks of this remote northern Utah town of Grouse Creek. The small building was originally made of logs, then later tongue-and-groove siding was added. The owner runs the Grouse Creek Store in between school bus runs;…

Local Mom and Pop grocery store. Mike Jensen and his dad Reed bought the place in 1972 and ran the grocery store together. Today, Mike features a custom butcher counter, grocery, deli, wines and produce. The building, built in 1954, has always been in use as a grocery or general…

This grassy park marks the first of three dams constructed to harness the power of Logan River for electricity.  On a sunny, spring day, the banks of First Dam come alive with picnickers, volleyball, sunbathers and college students.  Hopefully geese and ducks are always looking for a tasty crumb.  Local…

Originally known as Hull's Crossing because of the placement of the Hull family farms, Whitney was settled by families from Franklin who had need of extra land for crops. Prior to the building of their homes in 1869, they planted the crops and started farming. In 1888, after the railroad came through, the town…

This wetlands area offers song birds, marsh birds, water fowl, and many loons in the spring. Visit this site in spring and summer. Day use or camping fees are required and paid at the west entrance. Boats and watercraft must be inspected for Quagga mussels, before being allowed on the…

Evidence suggests that folks have been coming to Castle Rocks for nearly 9,000 years. Campsites are nestled among Idaho's largest pinyon pine forest on the east slope of the 7,500-foot Smoky Mountain.

Birding area. Song birds, birds of prey, upland birds, water fowl, as well as Sandhill Cranes, Sharp-tail Grouse and Sage Grouse. Local habitat includes farmland, and mixed forest. Visit this site any season but winter.

Discover what western life was like from 1820 to 1920 at this 160-acre living history center. Learn to spin wool, weave rugs, milk a cow or just enjoy the fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery on a wagon ride around the site. The center offers hands-on learning as you visit…

Opened in 1929 by grandfather Bert Olsen, this café is run by third-generation family members. They still offer the same rib-sticking hearty meals. Come visit them on Brigham City's main street!

On this route, travelers can retrace some steps of Idaho's pioneers and follow the path taken by early-day Yellowstone Park visitors. From Franklin, Idaho's oldest settlement, it follows US Hwy 91 north to Preston, then Idaho State Hwy 34 north through Thatcher and Grace to US Hwy 30. It then goes east…

History comes to life in this museum where you can interact with costumed guides depicting some of the thousands who traversed the 2,000 miles of the Oregon/California Trails. Take an interactive and informative staged journey down the Oregon trail including a ride in the bumping covered wagon simulator. Visit Peg…

Here you can picnic in a place traversed by Oregon Trail travelers. The Oregon Trail, marked by white trail markers, heads up from Alexander Reservoir and crosses the road that leads down into the park.

Mendon, Utah, is located in Northern Cache Valley. Surrounded by mountains, Mendon is a beautiful, small community with many heritage events including a May Day celebration. Mendon's website contains information about the history of Mendon, Utah, produced by local historian Rodney Sorenson.

In business for 81 years, Idle Isle Candy offers hand-dipped chocolates made daily in the store. Stop by and taste the house specialty and best seller, the almond cream toffee ball.

Whether you travel by foot, bicycle or car, a journey along the Logan Canyon Scenic Byway offers enough wild natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities and fascinating stories to satisfy even the most demanding adventurer.  Located approximately ninety miles north of Salt Lake City, this winding stretch of U.S. 89 runs…

Utah State University was founded as a land grant agricultural college in 1888 and has developed into a major research university, especially in agriculture, natural resources, and space dynamics. The campus is filled with historic buildings and attractive landscaping. The oldest building on campus is Old Main, on the western…

Amazing numbers of birds can be viewed in Spring, Summer and Fall, at this world-famous national wildlife refuge. Nearly 74,000 acres of marsh, mudflat, seasonal wetlands and uplands attract shorebirds, waterfowl, herons, grebes, gulls, eagles, hawks and many other birds. “Throughout the refuge’s long rich past, it has not only…

Anderson's Seed and Garden reflects local heritage not only because of the historic building in which it operates, but because of the agricultural community it has historically served. The building was constructed in the late 1880s and was originally Sydney Steven's Implement Company. In 1942, Anderson's Seed and Garden was…

The stunning aqua-blue waters of Bear Lake are the main feature of Bear Lake State Park. Enjoy a variety of activities in their seasons-waterskiing, sailing, swimming, scuba diving in summer. Year-round fishing for cutthroat, mackinaw, cisco, and whitefish. Join the fun of ice fishing in January during the annual Cisco…

Emigration Campground is located in a forested setting just off of Idaho State Highway 36 between Preston and Montpelier, Idaho. The camp's location, near the High Line National Recreation Trail in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, affords scenic vistas of the Bear River Range and a variety of wilderness experiences. There…

This is an Art Deco brick veneer building built in 1939 as part of a WPA project. It has an elaborate terra cotta entry.

Built in 1900, the Dansante Building has played a central role in the social life of the Cache Valley community for a century. For decades it served as the valley’s premier dance hall, hosting as many as 3,000 people on major holidays. It later became a clothing factory for two…

Come watch newly hatched fish (fry and fingerlings), learn about fish reproduction and stocking, and maybe try your luck in a nearby creek! This fish hatchery was built in 1946 and supplies fish stock to southeast Idaho lakes, rivers, and streams. The primary fish produced in the hatchery’s 16 vats…

This building was built in 1883, designed by Truman O. Angell, Jr., who also designed the Logan Tabernacle and the Logan Temple. It is the oldest county building in Utah still being used for its original purpose.

This is a great area for birds with plenty of song birds, birds of prey, shore birds, marine birds, upland birds, marsh birds, water fowl, Sandhill Cranes and Trumpeter Swans. Visit this site any season.

In the town that celebrates Black and White Days (named after black and white Holstein cattle) to honor dairy farming in Cache Valley, Casper’s Malt Shop makes delicious dairy treats, including Casper’s famous Fat Boy ice cream sandwiches and Casco ice cream sundaes on a stick. The production plant location…

In an 1867 stage stop barn, the Old Barn Community Theatre produces four plays per year, each running four weekends. In the summer they host a barn burner with a Dutch oven dinner on opening night and at Christmas they host a Gala at opening.

The Shoshone Indians used this trail system to cross the mountains between Cache Valley and Bear Lake Valley and on into Wyoming. When Mormon settlers came, they used the trail to take mail between the valleys. A marker commemorating the pioneer mail route is located up Cub River Road (County…

Housed in Perry’s century-old former Mormon church building, the Heritage Community Theatre offers musicals, children’s theatre, and drama.

Come visit the world's only captive geyser! This park features information about the geyser and the history of the park. This geyser goes off every hour on the hour and sprays water at a cooler degree meaning you can touch the water! Experience the geyser and Soda Springs' historic downtown.

This reservoir features shore birds, marine birds, upland birds, marsh birds, water fowl, Sage Grouse and many Sandhill Cranes in fall. Habitat includes wetlands, shrub steppe, and farmland. Visit this site any season but winter. There are also a variety of fish including Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and…

Free, clear sparkling soda water still is available in a beautiful Soda Springs city park located two miles north from the center of town. A prime attraction for more than 160 years, soda water from these springs was known nationally after rail service reached this resort area in 1882. W.H….

This area contains wetland and juniper habitats, expect to see song birds, birds of prey, upland birds water fowl. Some visitors have seen Trumpeter Swans in the winter, as well as Wild Turkey, Eagle and Osprey. Visit this site any season but winter.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Elite Hall in Hyrum, Utah, is a historic dance hall built to host a variety of community events. Although it was built in 1915 and is still in the process of restoration, the hall hosts a variety of events, from swing…

Family-owned since 1904, this store was known as Theurer’s (pronounced “Tire’s”). It is now named Julie's Marketplace. They sell groceries, hardware items, and they also have a custom butcher shop. It is a local favorite for residents of Cache Valley.

Locally owned and operated for many years by local entrepreneur Jay Moyle, Papa Jay's grocery is now owned by his daughter, Mary, who continues the tradition of making her dad's famous homemade beef jerky. Jay always enjoyed talking about the history behind the drying of meats, and experimenting with making…

This 30-room early commercial style hotel was built in 1917 and restored in 2001. It still runs as a hotel today! Guests will enjoy the authentic architecture and décor throughout, as well as a gift shop and the Enders Museum. Most rooms provide an excellent view of the Soda Springs…

A visitors center located near the Utah/Idaho border, the Cherry Creek Visitors Center is the place to find brochures and to learn what's happening in southern Idaho.

This three-cell jail was built in 1880 of plank and five tons of spikes. Operated by the local chapter of Daughters of Utah Pioneers, the museum is a log cabin near the jail, and both sites are owned and operated by the organization.

Dragongoose Farm is an interesting site, featuring an historic home and granary built in 1875. Settler Niels Bergeson planted a box elder tree around 1874 that is listed as a Utah Champion Box Elder. Part of the historic home was used as the Bergeson Maternity Home from 1939-1949. When you…

This beautifully restored building, built in the early 1900s, was always known as the Rock Store in Laketown, and for many years served the community as its general store. It was saved from demolition in 2005 and underwent a complete renovation to its present use as a first class lodging…

The Oregon California Trail led thousands of emigrants through eastern Idaho. The trail led them to what is known as Big Hill, which pioneers considered the steepest and longest descent on their journey West. The Big Hill Monument details their trials and points out landscape features such as wheel ruts…

The Riter Mansion is a beautifully-appointed luxury inn and conference center. The stately Greek Revival/Georgian manor home with its beautiful columned porch was built at the turn of the last century by a prominent pharmacist named Riter. The estate was often used as a social gathering place and a center…

This Presbyterian Church began in Malad in 1876 when Reverend Duncan James McMillan came to the town and started a Sunday School. This church was built in 1882 as a chapel and is one of the oldest remaining buildings in the city.

Dress as pioneers decked in a bonnet or hat of the times and pull handcarts to 20 campsites where you learn interesting pioneer history and reenact actual pioneer experiences. For example: getting caught in a cloudburst, scrubbing clothing on a wash board, negotiate with Native Americans for buffalo jerky, shaking…

Just outside Grace, Idaho, is the Niter Ice Cave. Formed around 500,000 years ago, this cave is a result of lava flows. Early settlers would use the cave for refrigeration. The cave has some graffiti, but it is a great lava tube for exploring.

This is the oldest drugstore in Idaho. Stop in for an old fashioned soft drink like iron port. The store sells gifts, cards, and historical book by local authors, along with the usual drugstore stock.

This jailhouse, built in about 1870, was originally Bear Lake County Jail, and was located in Paris. About thirty years ago, the owners of Bear Lake Handicrafts moved the historic building to this site in St. Charles in order to help preserve its history and provide a home for the…

Utah State University, the state’s agricultural college, has played an important role in pioneering the production of dairy products since 1888, when the first creamery was located in the Old Main building. Throughout the years, their locally famous ice cream confection has been available on campus in an assortment of flavors. The current location, established in 1975, continues to offer the traditional dairy treat, as well as Aggie made cheeses.

Locally owned and operated, the Idle Isle Café opened its doors in 1921, making it the third oldest restaurant still in operation in Utah.