Bear Lake straddles the Idaho-Utah border and boasts sandy beaches, great water sports, fishing, boating, and the famous Bear Lake State Park. This byway follows Bear Lake north on U.S. 89 to Montpelier, then north on U.S. 30, where you leave the Cache National Forest and enter the Caribou National Forest.
The intersection of U.S. 89 and U.S. 30 at Montpelier is the site of the attractive National Oregon-California Trail Center dedicated to the history and scenic wonders of the 2,000-mile Oregon-California Trail, part of the largest voluntary migration ever. There, you can ride in computer-controlled covered wagons, journey nearby trails with experienced guides in period costume, and handle the tools and other artifacts used by the pioneers. There is also an expansive park and playground to stretch your legs, as well as a general store and gift shop to help you remember your visit.
There are 13 Oregon-California Trail sites identified in the Soda Springs area. These sites are documented in diaries of the emigrants, in military records, by early mountain men, and settlers. “Travel the Oregon Trail in Caribou County” brochure contains information and directions on each site. The Morman ghost town of Chesterfield lies 25 miles northwest of Soda Springs and is located right on the Oregon-California Trail.