In Cassia County, trails lead not only through the landscape but also into the history of journeys west. City of Rocks National Reserve is connected to mass overland migration. Historic buildings, a log cabin and a passenger train car add to this glimpse of earlier routes.
Traces of Travel History
City of Rocks National Reserve is designated a National Historic Landmark and is connected to mass westward migration. At the same time, hiking trails there lead to arches, rock windows and impressive viewpoints. This brings together a clear cultural and historical connection with specific destinations for a hike.
The Cassia County Historical Museum grounds include a collection of historic buildings and antiques. One example is the log cabin built by Bill Rice in 1872. It originally stood at a stagecoach station on the Kelton Route, which connected Kelton, Utah, with Boise. The cabin’s connection to the route makes it a tangible part of transportation history, while the route itself linked two places in Utah and Idaho.
Another connection to transportation is the Wm B Mershon Passenger Train Car. The Barney & Smith Company built the car in the late 1890s. The two dates put different examples side by side: the log cabin was built in 1872, and the train car was built later in the same century. Those interested in the development of travel routes will find more than one point of historical interest here.
Summer at Lake Cleveland
In the Lake Cleveland area, popular summer activities include fishing, kayaking, hiking and swimming. The mix ranges from activities on and around the water to hiking, offering different ways to enjoy time outdoors.
To reach Lake Cleveland from Interstate 84, take State Highway 77 and Howell Canyon Road. This road is steep and winding, so take its character into account when planning your drive. This lets you factor in the access road without assuming a particular travel time.
The campground at Lake Cleveland is set in an alpine lake basin below Mt. Harrison and near alpine wildflower meadows. The campground’s setting gives a stay its own connection to the landscape among the recreational opportunities around the lake.
Elevation and Summer Operations at Pomerelle
At Pomerelle Mountain Resort, two different elevation figures also help with orientation: the summit is 8,762 feet (2,671 m) above sea level, and the vertical drop is 1,002 feet (305 m). The figures describe different things: one places the summit in relation to sea level, while the other gives the vertical drop.
When the snow melts, summer operations include chairlift rides, mountain biking, hiking and disc golf. Because these offerings are seasonal, check the resort’s summer dates before your trip. This lets you match the activities to the dates in effect for your visit.
Cassia County Fair & Rodeo
In Burley, the Cassia County Fair & Rodeo has been a tradition for nearly a century. The fair includes rodeo and livestock shows, rides, and exhibits of agricultural, horticultural and homemaking skills. The parade during fair week travels through Downtown Burley; dates and routes may change.
The rodeo includes timed events and roughstock competitions, wild cow milking and a children’s rodeo. Event formats may vary from year to year. The food offerings also include classic fair favorites: giant turkey legs, roasted corn and sticky caramel apples. Vendors and food may change from year to year.
If a particular date or event is important to your trip, check that year’s program in advance. This helps you keep track of changing details about the parade and fair program, while Cassia County’s varied historical, scenic and seasonal attractions provide a backdrop for your travel plans.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Burley, Bingham County, Madison County, Caribou County, Nez Perce County, Bonneville, Ada, Boundary County.
For the main travel overview: Idaho.
