Soda Springs Geyser ~ Idaho

Soda Springs is an old historic landmark, as well as a unique geothermal area. This entire area has thousands of naturally carbonated freshwater springs, which is a real rarity in the world of gourmet bottled water. Soda Springs was first made famous by pioneers on the old Oregon Trail and it did not take long for a town to sprout up shortly after. Local businesses capitalized on the remarkably good tasting naturally carbonated spring water from the start, which is what this town is still famous for in this modern age. 

The town of Soda Springs is a primary destination in its own right, especially for health oriented people that relish the curing properties of good spring water. Soda Springs is an old west style spa town that features bubbling hot water spring pools. Options for soaking it all up include the Bailey Creek Pool, Lava Water Park and the Lava Hot Pools. Healthy dining options can be found in town, so for those who are in need of rejuvenation, this famous destination in the middle of Idaho is quite an appealing place to be. Winter ski resorts, campgrounds and several outdoor recreation areas are nearby, so an entire vacation actually can be planned around Soda Springs!

For tourists passing through on Highway 30, all of the health oriented attractions take a backseat to the Soda Springs Geyser which is a magnificent sight to see! The Soda Springs Geyser has an interesting history that began by accident or sheer luck, depending on who tells the story. Long ago a local company attempted to drill a new soda water well on an existing spring and kaboom, a powerful geyser was discovered! Water shot over 100 feet straight up into the air and it was a real exciting event for the onlookers. The potential for tourism was realized and the new geyser was turned into a city park attraction.

Apparently the thick calcified lime cap had sealed this old geyser over for a very long time before the well drillers popped the cork. The water in this geyser is under tremendous pressure, so it likely would have just been a matter of time before it exploded naturally. In order to keep a handle on the new geyser, a plug with a valve was installed and the water pressure is released once every hour on the hour. This makes the Soda Springs the most predictable geyser in the west and all that a visitor has to do is set the alarm clock! 

The Soda Springs Geyser is a marvelous sight to see and the mineral deposits are as colorful as can be. The green trees and cobalt blue skies are the perfect backdrop for the hourly geyser show. This famous geyser is very photogenic and it is a great spot for selfie photos. The price of admission is free, but charitable contributions can be left in the donation box. When touring the volcanic Craters Of The Moon region of Idaho, it is well worth taking a side trip to Soda Springs to see the big geyser and to stock up on naturally carbonated spring water!