Bannock County, Idaho
Bannock County was established March 6, 1893 from part of Bingham County, with its county seat at Pocatello. Named for the Bannock Indians, the first inhabitants of the area, whose name was spelled Bannock by early settlers.
County Clerk: 624 E. Center; Room 211 Pocatello, ID 83201-6274 Phone: (208) 236-7334 Fax: (208) 236-7345
Bannock County has eight incorporated communities and is part of a tribal reservation. The cities are: Arimo, Chubbuck, Downey, Inkom, Lava Hot Springs, McCammon, and Pocatello. The total population for the county in 2000 was 75,565.
Idaho State University
On March 11, 1901, Governor Frank W. Hunt signed Senate Bill 53 establishing the Academy of Idaho contingent upon private land donations being made for its site. In 1915 it became Idaho Technical Institute. In 1927 the school was renamed the University of Idaho - Southern Branch. Twenty years later it was renamed Idaho State College and became a four-year school for the first time. In 1963, the school was renamed for a fourth time to Idaho State University, reflecting its new status as a full four-year public university. Idaho State University (ISU) is among the fastest growing of the four academic institutions of higher education supported by the State of Idaho. About 12,000 students participate in 124 Baccalaureate, 50 Masters and nine Doctoral programs in the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Pharmacy, Health-Related Professions, Education, Engineering and Business.
Idaho Museum of Natural History
The mission of the Idaho Museum of Natural History is to acquire, preserve, study, interpret and display objects for research and education relating to the natural history of Idaho and the Northern Intermountain West. The Museum seeks to enhance an understanding of Idaho's natural and cultural history for the citizens of Idaho and visitors.
Fort Hall Replica
Location: The Fort Hall Replica is on the upper level of Ross Park, Pocatello, Idaho
History: A visit to the Fort Hall Replica is to enter the 19th Century world of explorers, trappers, fur traders, Native Americans, pioneers, Gold seekers, historic figures, and common folk; all of whom visited the place called Fort Hall on the banks of the Snake River in what is now Southeast Idaho. The roads to the Replica follow close to the Oregon and California Trails and other famous roads and byways.
Pocatello- Bannock County Seat
Interesting Facts: Although thousands of immigrants passed through Idaho, the discovery of gold in 1860 is what attracted settlers in large numbers to Idaho. The gold rush brought a need for goods and services to many towns, and the Portneuf Valley, home of Pocatello, was the corridor initially used by stage and freight lines. The coming of the railroad provided further development of Idaho's mineral resources and "Pocatello junction" became an important transportation crossroads as the Union Pacific Railroad expanded its service.
Hot Springs
Downata Hot Springs is a full-service hot springs resort south of Pocatello. During the summer, Downata offers a variety of activities for families including a large naturally heated pool, four large water slides, water playground, hot tub, driving range, lighted volleyball & basketball courts and picnic areas. Activities available include bird watching, hiking, mountain biking and ATV trails. Lodging choices include a a Ranch House for twelve guests, Campground with water power hookups, dry sites and tenting areas, Three Yurts, Three Tepees, and cabins coming in the fall of 2005. In off-peak seasons the Ranch House, Yurts, Pool and Hot Tub available for private parties, retreats, a getaways. Campground remains open until the end of October.
For years people have gathered at Lava Hot Springs to bathe, rest and worship. Many people believe that there are curative properties associated with the hot mineral water and refer to the Springs as "the healing waters" It is rumored that long ago the Springs were neutral ground and shared in peace by all.
Once part of the original Fort Hall reservation, the springs and land were part of a treaty agreement between the Indians and the US Government in the late 1800's. The federal government purchased the springs and land, (approximately 178 acres including the springs).
Winter Sports
Pebble Creek- Celebrating 57 years of skiing excellence, Pebble Creek is a vertical playground that attracts extreme skiers but also offers plenty of terrain variety for other skill levels. Located just south of the City of Pocatello, in the Caribou National Forest, Pebble Creek boasts virtually non-existent lift lines. The 40 member PSIA/AASI Member Ski & Snowboard School offers a wide range of group programs as well as private lessons.
Pebble Creek plays host to 1,100 skiable acres, 54 runs and an abundance of annual snowfall, providing enough playful terrain for beginners and those demanding an honest challenge. The rental shop carries high performance shaped skis and the lodge offers cafeteria-style dining and fresh home-baked treats. Renowned for its fun and friendly atmosphere Pebble Creek offers great winter fun at a great value!
