Franklin County: History, Trails and Landscapes

Franklin County combines distinctive landscapes with a rich history and a range of trip-planning options. You can shape your stay around historic sites, nature watching, outdoor activities or events, for example. The sites and attractions each have their own focus: some tell the story of Idaho’s past, while others lead to geological features or specific recreational opportunities.

Landscapes and Nature Watching

Little Mountain, also called Mt. Lookout, is a distinctive landmark in the valley between Preston and Franklin. The mountain is completely separate from the Wasatch Range. The mountains in Franklin County feature clearly visible shorelines of Lake Bonneville. They give the landscape a geological dimension that differs from the forms of today’s bodies of water. Oneida Narrows is considered a major scenic attraction in the county.

Birdwatching is a particular focus at the Oxford Slough Waterfowl Production Area in Oxford. It is home to large breeding colonies of Snowy Egret, Cattle Egret, White-faced Ibis and Franklin’s Gull. Franklin County brings together a range of nature-related attractions: visible traces of Lake Bonneville, distinctive landforms and an area known for its breeding birds. Which of these aspects interests you most can shape your outings.

Franklin’s History and Historic Architecture

Franklin was founded by Mormon pioneers in 1860 and is considered Idaho’s oldest continuously inhabited town. The history of education can be traced at Oneida Stake Academy, which operated from 1888 to 1922. Its permanent building was constructed in Preston from 1890 to 1894 and still stands today. The period of operation and the construction phase are therefore not the same. The building is considered the oldest of two or three surviving structures from the church-sponsored educational work of that era.

Other historic buildings reflect different architectural and historical connections. The Lorenzo Hill Hatch House is a rare example of Greek Revival architecture in Idaho; its interpretive exhibits also serve travelers. The remains of a larger home built around 1870 survive at the John and Ann Doney House. Relic Hall, in turn, is an example of rustic architecture from the Great Depression. Together, these sites do not tell a single, uniform story of architecture, but offer different perspectives on architecture, education and how buildings have changed over time.

The Bear River Massacre National Historic Landmark is also among the county’s historic destinations. The site covers 1,200 acres. Visitors are asked to view it from designated public areas. This is important to keep in mind when planning a visit: the designated public areas are intended for viewing the site.

Festivals and Local Traditions

The Franklin County Fair combines livestock shows in partnership with local 4-H groups, food vendors, variety shows and world-class bull riding. The Franklin County Fairgrounds includes four covered exhibition buildings, an outdoor pavilion with picnic tables and a stage, a covered livestock arena, four livestock barns and a covered outdoor PRCA arena. If you’d like to plan your trip around a festival, check the event dates in advance.

In Franklin, Idaho Day is still celebrated every year on the last Saturday in June. The “That Famous Preston Night Rodeo” is considered the world’s first night rodeo. These events have different characters: the fair brings livestock shows and entertainment together, Idaho Day is an annual local tradition, and the Preston Night Rodeo is known for its distinctive place in history. Check the specific dates separately before planning your trip.

Trails, Reservoirs and Outdoor Activities

The Highline Recreational Trail is a 55-mile route between Preston and Soda Springs, suitable for hiking and biking. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also possible. The Albert Moser Trailhead provides access to snowmobiling, ATV riding, mountain biking and hiking. Comparing the two can help you choose an activity and season: the Highline Recreational Trail is described by both its length and seasonal options, while the Albert Moser Trailhead offers a range of activities.

The reservoirs have their own distinct features, too. Lamont Reservoir has a boat ramp, a dock and a vault toilet. You can fish there for Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Rainbow Trout and Tiger Muskie; check the applicable fishing regulations separately. Treasureton Reservoir is a 151.7-acre fishing reservoir stocked with rainbow trout. The information given for the two bodies of water is therefore different: Lamont’s facilities and several fish species are listed, while Treasureton’s size and fish stocking are noted.

Bear River Hot Springs adds natural mineral springs and four pools to the options. Since facilities may change during renovations, check the current status before your visit. You can explore Franklin County according to your interests, whether in historic sites, landscapes, events or outdoor activities. To choose where to stay, you can start by considering which of these focuses will shape your trip.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Preston, Owyhee, Twin Falls, Adams County, Bonner County, Custer County, Bear Lake County, Oneida County.

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