When you live in a state as filled to the brim with small towns as Idaho, you come to realize that every itty-bitty community has its own personality and its own “landmark” attraction that sets it apart from the town next door. Fortunately, when it comes to Idaho, our attractions aren’t your average “World’s Largest Ball of Twine,” like so many other roadside tourist stops across the country. Instead, our beautiful state is filled with unique geologic features, natural wonders, and stunning places to unwind, rejuvenate, and drink in the quaint wonders of small town life.
But there are definitely a few communities that we all continue to go back to time and time again–the ones that have that extra something. From Idaho’s own “Old Faithful” and unique Yellowstone-style geology to its man-made “volcano,” rich rural beauty, and community atmosphere, this one town seems worth a closer look.
Welcome to Soda Springs, Idaho. (Population: 2,975)
Tucked away near the Wyoming border, this hidden gem of a town is home to more than a few small town wonders--although you might not realize it from a distance.
Shooting lightly carbonated water 70 feet into the air every hour on the hour at Geyser Park, Idaho's own miniature "Old Faithful" is a truly unique sight to see.
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Although this is the only captive geyser in the world (tapped and timed in 1937), this unique marvel isn't the only reason Soda Springs is so unique.
Check out the area and you'll notice solidified minerals built up around the geyser: the product of the water's high mineral content and hard pH. A boardwalk with sitting benches surrounds the mineral bed, as well as an observation deck to see the runoff. These miniature waterfalls often catch the light and form a cloud of rainbows that is quite lovely to see!
Soda Springs was an incredibly important stop on the Oregon Trail as well, primarily because of the number of springs and abundance of water sources for pioneers to fill up on.
While many of the town's famous springs are now buried beneath the local reservoir, there are numerous places throughout town where you can taste the effervescence of the lightly carbonated water - like Octagon Spring Park.
While the Pioneer Museum and Corrigan Park are both incredible places to experience history firsthand through artifacts, replicas, and Oregon Trail remnants.
Clearly, there’s a lot happening in this little town that you wouldn’t expect! Have you ever driven through Soda Springs? What other hidden gems are tucked away in this “bubbly” community?
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