Bingham County: Potato History, Museums and Lava Landscapes

The former Oregon Short Line Railroad Depot, built in 1913, houses the Idaho Potato Museum—a direct introduction to potato history and Bingham County’s cultural themes. Nature and recreational destinations offer a different focus: from lava flows and canyon activities to paved trails and parks, there is plenty to choose from.

Museums, History and Local Themes

The Idaho Potato Museum’s exhibits cover the history of the potato, its cultivation and harvest, nutrition, interesting facts, and educational information about potatoes. The subject matter thus ranges from agricultural cultivation to questions about nutrition and knowledge of the tuber. The Potato Station Café serves potatoes baked, fried, in cupcakes, coated in chocolate, or as bread. The menu therefore features both savory preparations and sweet variations.

The Bingham County Historical Society Museum offers a different perspective on architecture and everyday history. Its 15 rooms, large white columns on the veranda, and conservatory reflect a Southern architectural style that is in keeping with the architecture of Tennessee, the Browns’ home state. The exhibits include Native American artifacts, contemporary clothing and furnishings from past eras, musical instruments, military uniforms, a doll collection, and numerous historical photographs. The architecture and collections thus offer two distinct ways to explore local history.

The historic Kirkpatrick Cabin at the Snake River Historical Homestead is another notable historic site: it is considered the oldest standing cabin in Bingham County. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Museum is located on the Oregon Trail in Fort Hall. It presents traditional clothing and crafts, as well as changes in Native American life after the arrival of outsiders. During the summer months, visitors can also see a live buffalo from the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes’ buffalo herd beside the museum.

Lava Landscapes, Trails and Recreation

Hell’s Half Acre is an area of lava flows that is suitable for hiking. Activities in Wolverine Canyon include dispersed camping, snowmobiling, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. Wolverine Canyon is northeast of Blackfoot, along Wolverine Canyon Road. The two areas offer different nature experiences: lava flows define Hell’s Half Acre, while the canyon brings together several activities, from hiking to rock climbing.

The Greater Blackfoot Area Greenbelt is a 6.5-mile paved multi-use trail. Its features include viewpoints, seating, and informative signs. Jensen Grove Lake is Blackfoot’s main summer recreation center. Activities include boating, water skiing, swimming, and picnicking; walking and jogging are also among the recreational options along the Greenbelt.

Jensen Grove Park offers picnic tables, restrooms, play structures, disc golf, open spaces, an amphitheater, basketball courts, and parking. The park also has a fully equipped skate park and adjoins Jensen’s Lake, which has a beach. Some park facilities may change over time; if a particular amenity is important for your visit, check its current status in advance. The Rose Pond Area includes an archery range, adding to the variety of recreational options.

Golfers also have a practical option for planning: tee times at Blackfoot Golf Course can be booked online around the clock. The Eastern Idaho State Fair features exciting rides and food vendors. If you’re planning a visit to the fair, check the event dates.

Explore more destinations: Blackfoot, Fort Hall, Canyon, Lewis County, Adams County, Franklin County, Kootenai County, Boundary County

For the main travel overview: Idaho.