Last updated: February 16, 2024
Place
Hooper Springs Park
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
1 mile north of Soda Springs, Idaho
Significance:
One of several natural fountains in the area that emigrants considered to be one of the marvels of the Oregon Trail
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
6 listed
Grill, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Picnic Table, Playground, Restroom, Trailhead
Hooper Springs , the most famous of the area's soda springs, is one of several natural fountains in the area that emigrants considered to be one of the marvels of the Oregon Trail. Hooper Springs was noted for its picturesque scenery and its cold, naturally carbonated water spring. Emigrants added flavorings to this water to create natural soda-fountain drinks. Today, the site is a city park where visitors can still sample the spring's sparkling water.
Emigrant Remarks
Early emigrant Sarah White Smith described another use for the water when she wrote:
"Traveled . . . along the bank of the bear river & are encamped at Soda Springs. This is indeed a curiosity. The water tastes like soda water, especially artificially prepared. The water is bubbling and foaming like boiling water. I drank of it. . . . We find it excellent for baking bread, no preparation of water is necessary. Take it from the fountain & the bread is as light as any prepared with yeast."
Site Information
Location (1 mile north of Soda Springs, Idaho)
The park's amenities include: a covered pavilion, restrooms, a covered spring house with benches, picnic tables, a playground, and a basketball court.