When you feel like spending the day driving around and taking in the sights, you’ll find that the Gem State has plenty of options. In fact, there may just be too many options! That’s where we come in. We’re here to tell you about a lesser-known scenic byway that’s loaded with natural beauty, history, and endless adventure: the Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway. Stretching through a region of eastern Idaho, you’re in for quite the ride when you take on this scenic drive.
While Idaho is home to plenty of beautiful highways that are worth exploring, the Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway allows you to explore one of the state's most underrated regions.
Starting at the Utah state line, the byway starts with a bang as it traverses U.S. 89 north alongside the western shore of Bear Lake. After seeing the lake's mesmerizing blue waters, you'll instantly understand why it's called the Caribbean of the Rockies.
After leaving Bear Lake, the highway passes through several charming small towns, including the historic town of Paris. Home to the Paris Tabernacle and Historic District, this little community is a historic gem in East Idaho.
The history doesn't stop there, either. After Paris, you'll make your way to the town of Montpelier where you'll find the National Oregon-California Trail Center. Located on an actual encampment site, this museum offers visitors a glimpse at what life was like for early pioneers.
The byway continues onto U.S. 30 where you'll eventually come across Soda Springs. Home to the world's only captive geyser, you might just be surprised by how much this small town has to offer.
Another destination located along the byway is the Historic Chesterfield Town Site. Once a lively community on the Oregon Trail, Chesterfield is now a complete ghost town. Many of its historic structures have been restored to their former glory, and guided tours of the site are given during the summer.
You'll keep following the byway west past the town of Lava Hot Springs and all the way to McCammon. As you can see, this scenic drive packs in a LOT in just 53 miles. See what this region has to offer, hop in your car, and check out the Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway for your next adventure.
Have you driven this scenic byway in Idaho? What’s your favorite scenic drive in the Gem State? Please share your thoughts and experiences with us below!
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