Franklin County combines distinctive landforms with a defining pioneer and architectural history. Little Mountain, also called Mt. Lookout, is a landmark in the valley between Preston and Franklin and is completely separate from the Wasatch Range. Distinct shorelines of Lake Bonneville are visible on the mountains; Oneida Narrows is considered an outstanding scenic attraction in the county. Natural features and historic places thus offer two distinct areas to explore.
Birdwatching in Oxford
Birdwatching is the main attraction at the Oxford Slough Waterfowl Production Area. It is home to large nesting colonies of Snowy Egret, Cattle Egret, White-faced Ibis and Franklin’s Gull. The area offers a specific natural highlight within the county’s diverse landscape.
Franklin and its architectural history
Franklin was founded by Mormon pioneers in 1860 and is considered Idaho’s oldest continuously inhabited city. The historic district includes Relic Hall, the old ZCMI store and the Hatch House, among other buildings. The Lorenzo Hill Hatch House is a rare example of the Greek Revival style in Idaho. The remains of a larger house, built around 1870, are preserved at the John and Ann Doney House. Relic Hall, in turn, is an example of rustic architecture from the Great Depression. Together, the buildings represent different historical periods and architectural styles.
The Oneida Stake Academy operated from 1888 to 1922. Its permanent building was constructed in Preston from 1890 to 1894 and still stands today. It is considered the oldest of two or three surviving buildings from church-sponsored education of that era. The Academy offers insight into both the history of an educational institution and the architectural history of its surviving building. Interpretive exhibits in the Hatch and Doney houses serve, among others, travelers, schools, family reunions and other events in southern Idaho and northern Utah.
A place of remembrance
The Bear River Massacre National Historic Landmark covers 1,200 acres. In January 1863, California Volunteers under Colonel Patrick Edward Connor destroyed a winter camp of the Shoshone near present-day Preston. The site is sacred to the Shoshone, a place of remembrance and prayer. Please view the site only from designated public areas.
Trails and outdoor activities
The 55-mile Highline Recreational Trail runs between Preston and Soda Springs and is suitable for hiking and cycling. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also available. The route’s length and endpoints give it a clear framework; the activities on offer vary with the season.
The Albert Moser Trailhead provides access to snowmobiling, ATV riding, mountain biking and hiking on the Thorne Springs, Cub River and Lowline trails. The activities listed include both motorized recreation and hiking and cycling.
Reservoirs for fishing and recreation
Lamont Reservoir has a boat ramp, a dock and a vault toilet. You can fish there for Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Rainbow Trout and Tiger Muskie. Check the applicable regulations before fishing. Treasureton Reservoir is a 151.7-acre fishing reservoir stocked with rainbow trout.
Fair, rodeo and Idaho Day
The Franklin County Fair features livestock shows in partnership with local 4-H groups, food booths, variety shows and world-class bull riding. The grounds include four indoor exhibition buildings, an outdoor pavilion with picnic tables and a stage, a covered livestock arena, four livestock barns and a covered outdoor PRCA arena. Franklin celebrates Idaho Day every year on the last Saturday in June. That Famous Preston Night Rodeo is considered the world’s first night rodeo. If one of these events determines your travel dates, check the specific event dates in advance.
Discover more destinations: Preston, Jefferson, Custer County, Idaho County, Valley, Latah County, Boundary County, Blaine.
For the main travel overview: Idaho.
