One Valley at a Time: Portneuf Valley

Welcome to the next installment of our weekly valley series!

Every week, we’re taking a closer look at one of Idaho’s legendary river valleys and structural basins—exploring their unique geography, local history, and the best ways to experience them.

Portneuf Valley  (Southeastern Idaho)

Elevation & Landscape: Situated along the winding ways of the 124-mile-long Portneuf River, the Portneuf Valley is nestled between mountain ranges in Southeastern Idaho–the Portneuf Range (with peaks rising above 9,000 feet high) to the east and the Bannock Range (to the west stretching to Utah). The valley floor has an average elevation of around 4,500 feet, and is shaped by the faulting and folding of the Idaho-Wyoming thrust belt. The Idaho-Wyoming thrust belt is about 100 miles long and 60 miles wide and serves as the driving force of “making mountains” in this area of Idaho. This corridor connects the Snake River Plain to the Great Basin. Portneuf Valley includes agricultural flats, natural hot springs, and beautiful mountain views.

Local History: Serving as the “Gateway to the Northwest” in the late 1800s, the city of Pocatello became the main trading post during the gold rush in the northwest. The city became the hub for commerce and transportation as the railroad was built. The first permanent settlement, however, was Fort Hall (located near Pocatello). Fort Hall was a main supply point for the travelers of the Oregon Trail. In addition, this corridor was used by stage and freight lines to make a supply hub in southeastern Idaho. As more and more settlers came, and the gold rush died down, agriculture became a main staple of the area. Irrigation was established from the Snake River and the settlers began growing potatoes, grain, and other needed crops.

In 1901, the Academy of Idaho (or according to some sources, The Academy of Idaho State) was founded by Theodore Turner. Turner, who served as Mayor of Pocatello and as an Idaho State Senator, donated 300 acres to start the school. The Academy of Idaho opened its doors in September 1902, with 4 faculty members, 70 students, and a tuition of $5 per term. In modern times, we know this school as Idaho State University. 

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Things to Do: 

• Lava Hot Springs -The biggest attraction in Lava Hot Springs is the odorless, mineral-rich geothermal water. Visit Lava Hot Springs Foundation World Famous Hot Springs, where the water stays between 102°F and 112°F year-round.

  
  

• Downtown Pocatello -Downtown Pocatello is the place to be for seeing the rich history of the city. You'll find shopping, art galleries, places to eat, and two great museums– Museum of Clean or Idaho Museum of Natural History.

  
  

• Portneuf Greenway- Along the Portneuf River is a collection of paved trails known as the Portneuf Greenway which are great for walking and biking on.

  
  

• The Fort Hall Replica & Museum -Located at the Ross Park Complex, this attraction features 12 historic replica buildings and is located near the zoo and the Bannock County Historical Museum.

  
  

• Zipline -Lava Zipline Adventure located in Lava Hot Springs features a zipline and high ropes course experience. Group rates are available.

Where to Eat: The Nook (200 S Main St Ste E, Pocatello, ID 83204)

Known for generously-sized burgers with many unique combinations. A relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff are some of the highlights to this well-known eatery.

Where in Idaho are you reading from today? Drop a comment below and tell us which valley or region of Idaho is your favorite and why!