The Historic Fort In Idaho That Will Take You Back In Time

Idaho's 19th Century could very well be considered its glory days in terms of adventure and discovery. This old-timey world of explorers, trappers, fur traders, Native Americans, pioneers, and gold seekers shaped Idaho to be the way it is today! As the Oregon Trail passed through what is now Southeast Idaho, it left in its wake a landscape brimming with history - old military forts and historic trading posts included - like the infamous Fort Hall.

In the 1860s, Fort Hall was considered the most vital post in the Snake River Valley region. Today, the original fort is long gone, stripped and dismantled over the years. Instead, you'll find a full-scale, archaeologically-accurate replica of the site. Here, you can learn about one of Idaho's most fascinating points in history and see for yourself firsthand what life on the frontier was like.

From start to finish, a visit to the Fort Hall Replica in Pocatello is meant to show life as it was on Idaho's old frontier.

Pocatello's unique place on the Oregon Trail - and later, the railroad - means this city is already brimming with history!

From the rough and tumble enclosed courtyard...

To the miniature town...

To the decorative sculptures that add a touch of whimsy to what is otherwise a "miniature" ghost town.

Every detail is made to be an acccuarate model of this prized military post.

Indoor exhibits explain the defunct fort's history and place on the larger Oregon Trail...

While others capture snippets of Idaho's humble beginnings.

While the original fort no longer stands - either old or new - you can find their historical markers nearby.

You can also make the short jaunt to the Bannock County Hsitorical Museum next door to continue your journey through history into Idaho's mining days and beyond.

Talk about history coming alive! Be sure to stop by the museum next door (included in admission) as well as the zoo to make a full day of exploring.