| Idaho Falls, originally known as Eagle Rock, began through an influx of miners, fur trades, trappers, travelers, pioneers, and early settlers. Today, Idaho Falls is one of Eastern Idaho's regional centers for shopping, medical care, education, and cultural awareness. Idaho Falls is located next to the Snake River, 50 miles north of Pocatello and 100 miles from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Idaho Falls is the County Seat of Bonneville County.Wildlife is abundant in this area; visitors can catch sight of deer, elk, and many other animals among the golden leaves of the aspen trees and the forests of pines that inhabit this wonderland of nature. Summers in Idaho Falls are long and mild, providing great opportunities for fishing, biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, barbecues, and floating the Snake River. July nights are typically in the low 50s while the daytime temperatures range in the mid 80s.The waterfalls are the focal point of Idaho Falls and are created by a diversion dam, which provides hydroelectric power. The original dam was built in 1909; today's dam was constructed as part of a $55.3 million hydroelectric power project in 1982. There are a total of three power plants that produce hydroelectric power for Idaho Falls, combined they produce fifty percent of the electricity needed. |
