Near Soda Springs in Caribou County, Idaho — The American West (Mountains)

Bear River Lava

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, June 22, 2017

1. Bear River Lava Marker

Inscription. Until about 28,000 years ago, Bear River used to flow northwest from here through Portneuf Canyon into Snake River.

Then these lava eruption blocked that route, diverting Bear River south into what now is Salt Lake. At that time a large inland sea -- known as Lake Bonneville -- covered much of Utah. Additional water from Bear River helped make it overflow into Snake River before a change in climate dried it up about 8,000 years ago.

Erected by Idaho Department of Transportation. (Marker Number 220.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Natural Features. In addition, it is included in the Idaho State Historical Society series list.

Location. 42° 38.869′ N, 111° 42.129′ W. Marker is near Soda Springs, Idaho, in Caribou County. Marker is on Soda Point Power Plant Road near Reservoir Road, on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1599 Soda Point Power Plant Road, Soda Springs ID 83276, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. John Bidwell (here, next to this marker); William Henry Harrison (a few steps from this marker); The Value Of A Shortcut (a few steps from this marker); Guiding Landmark...

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(a few steps from this marker); Horatio's Journey (a few steps from this marker); Fort Hall (within shouting distance of this marker); Sheep Rock Geology (within shouting distance of this marker); Hudspeth Cutoff (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Soda Springs.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, June 22, 2017

2. Bear River Lava Marker

This marker is on the right.

Credits. This page was last revised on August 8, 2017. It was originally submitted on August 8, 2017, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 401 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 8, 2017, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.