Discover Bannock County
Accommodation in Bannock County
Fort Hall connects Bannock County with the history of the Oregon Trail. The fort was built in 1834 on the Snake River near present-day Pocatello as an important supply fort along the route. You can encounter this early history in several places and in different forms—from historical replicas to museum exhibits.
Fort Hall and the History of the Oregon Trail
The Fort Hall Replica in Upper Ross Park is dedicated to preserving the history of the original Fort Hall. At the replica, Frontier Town features twelve historical replicas of buildings from Pocatello’s early days. This places the fort’s role as a supply stop on the Oregon Trail alongside the memory of Pocatello’s beginnings as distinct historical themes.
The Bannock County Historical Complex houses exhibits, objects, and documents about the history of Bannock County and Pocatello. Its historical exhibit topics also include the Oregon Trail. The South Bannock County Historical Center Museum is located in Lava Hot Springs; the Shoshone Bannock Tribal Museum is in Fort Hall. Both are among Bannock County’s museums and add further named places to the historical perspective.
The historic routes also offer distinct points of interest. The Sublette Cutoff runs over Fish Creek Pass near Lava Hot Springs. Separate from it, the Pioneer Historic Byway follows Highway 91 north to Red Rock Pass. In Pocatello, a self-guided walking tour takes you through the Downtown Historic District. This lets you distinguish between a historic pass route, a byway along the highway, and a walking tour through a city district.
Outdoor Activities
Zoo Idaho introduces visitors to native wildlife through exhibits, events, classes, and other family programs. The offerings bring together different formats: you can learn about wildlife, attend events, or explore classes and programs.
As of 2025, the Portneuf Greenway includes more than 18 miles of trails for hiking and biking. The trails run along the river, by seating areas, and through the city.
On the Portneuf River, you can float in one- or two-person inner tubes, or use kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. The options range from floating alone or with a companion in an inner tube to different types of boats and boards. Pebble Creek Ski Area is located on Mount Bonneville in the Portneuf Range, not far from Pocatello.
East Mink Creek Nordic Center has groomed trails for skating and classic cross-country skiing, separate snowshoe trails, and a sledding hill. These offerings vary by activity: cross-country skiing is available in both skating and classic styles, alongside dedicated snowshoe trails and a hill for sledding.
Hot Springs, Events, and Fall Colors
The World Famous Hot Pools in Lava Hot Springs are open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. If you’re planning a visit, check the opening hours before you arrive. This ensures the specific holiday closures are taken into account when planning.
The Bannock County Fair and Rodeo takes place annually at the Bannock County Fairgrounds in Downey. Check the specific event dates before your trip. Fall colors also have a regional connection: in the broader Bannock County area, the City Creek Trail System is a place to view fall foliage in Southeast Idaho.
For the broader travel overview: Idaho.
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