Soda Springs is a small town in southeastern Idaho with approximately 3,000 residents. It is one town you may know little about and just drive through on your way to Bear Lake, Lava Hot Springs, or out of the state. But, this town has so much to offer. In fact, Soda Springs has one incredible claim to fame that may make you choose to stop and spend a little extra time here — it is not only home to the only man-made geyser in Idaho, but also the world.

Soda Springs is a small town in Idaho with a lot to see. Not only does it feature a charming downtown area, but it is also home to 14 historic sites including authentic wagon ruts.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
But this town’s biggest claim to fame? Soda Springs is home to the only man-made geyser in the world. This geyser is a must-visit destination as you drive through this small town and it really is a sight to see.
Edgar Zuniga Jr./Flickr
The area around Soda Springs is home to multiple mineral springs. In 1937, local businessmen began searching for more springs in hopes to build a resort, but they discovered something else instead.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
In November 1937, a 3,500-pound drill bit stuck a carbon dioxide gas chamber nearly 300 feet underground. The geyser was born as hot water began shooting 45 feet into the air. After the bit was removed, the water went even higher — shooting up to 70 feet in the air.

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After this discovery, the water continued to shoot into the air and could not be stopped. However, a cap was finally placed on the geyser to keep it under control.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
While most natural geysers tend to establish a schedule, the man-made geyser in Soda Springs uses a timer and the cap is released every hour on the hour.
A day trip to the Soda Springs geyser is one that you will want to make as every hour you can see this one-of-a-kind sight. The geyser is located at Geyser Park, open year-round, and is free to the public.
Ken Lund/Flickr
During a visit, stop into the small visitor center to learn more about the geyser and the surrounding area. You can also walk on the boardwalk around the geyser or just sit and admire the view from picnic tables and benches.
Then, after you have checked out this man-made geyser in Idaho, visit one of the local shops, grab a meal, and just enjoy this charming small town in Idaho.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Soda Springs, and this man-made geyser in Idaho, is one unique destination that you’ll be glad you saw for yourself.

Did you know about Soda Springs’ claim to fame? Have you ever seen the only man-made geyser in Idaho? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!

Soda Springs is just one of the unique small towns and incredible attractions you will pass as you drive on the National Pioneer Historic Byway. Check out our feature article to learn more about one of the best scenic drives in Idaho. But of course, before you head on your drive, make sure you bring car-friendly snacks for the journey!

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Man-Made Wonder In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | November 20, 2023

What are some other hidden gems in Idaho I should visit?

Idaho's man-made geyser is not the only hidden gem you will find in the state. There are many other gems that deserve a visit and that I would recommend you place on any bucket list. Some of the hidden gems you’ll want to check out include:

  • Silver Creek Preserve
  • Black Magic Canyon
  • Hobo Cedar Grove Botanical Area
  • Q’emiln Park
  • Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

 

To see many of the above hidden gems and others around the state, check out this hidden gem road trip. Just make sure you don’t forget the car-friendly snacks!

What are some small towns in Idaho I should visit?

There are many small towns in Idaho that deserve your time and attention. In each of these communities, you will find beauty, friendly faces, and must-visit attractions. While we could list dozens of small towns that are worth exploring, the following are just a few of my favorites:

 

Where are some other destinations in Idaho that I don’t want to miss?

Idaho is full of incredible places to explore and adventures waiting around every turn. In fact, from the Panhandle to the Utah/Idaho border, there are breathtaking and unique destinations that you simply don’t want to miss. Some of my favorite destinations that I love recommending to in-state and out-of-state visitors alike include:

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Soda Springs, ID 83276, USA