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Whether you prefer to swim, fish, paddle, or float, spending time in the water is an essential summer experience. Start with this list of our five favorite ponds, rivers, and lakes near Pocatello, ID for fun family recreation. more 5 Best Rivers, Reservoirs, and Lakes Near Pocatello, ID 1. Portneuf River Located right in Pocatello, the Portneuf River gives you the opportunity for a fun family water adventure. For an easy beginner trip, you can start at Centennial Park at S Grant Ave and Idaho St., then float or paddle about 2.7 miles to the Cheyenne Bridge at Cheyenne Ave and Chinook St. Rent kayaks and other equipment from several locations including the City of Pocatello Outdoor Recreation department. 2. Edson Fischer Pond This 3.4-acre pond, found right on the Portneuf River in southwest Pocatello, is part of the Edson Fischer Nature Area. You can stroll the trail around the pond, which is just under a mile long.  After your walk, fish for bass, trout, whitefish, and other species from several access points. Bring binoculars to catch a glimpse of local birds. You'll find Edson Fisher Pond near the intersection of N 2nd Ave and Cheyenne Ave. 3. Portneuf Wellness Complex This expansive 80-acre community facility features a 6.5-acre swimming and fishing lake. You can also mountain bike, play basketball and volleyball, or catch a performance at the 11,000-seat amphitheater. Portneuf Wellness Complex is located at 10588 Fairground Dr. 4. Massacre Rocks State Park This Idaho state park offers access to boating and fishing on the Snake River. Massacre Rocks is about a 30-minute drive from Pocatello at 3592 Park Ln in American Falls, which will be an enjoyable trip when you take your Toyota. The park also has disc golf, bird watching, junior ranger programs, and many other fun family activities. 5. American Falls Reservoir Another option in American Falls, the American Falls Reservoir provides boating and fishing opportunities a short drive from Pocatello. You can angle for perch, catfish, crappie, and other species. In addition to four boat ramps, the reservoir grounds feature picnic facilities, a campground, and a visitor's center with exhibits about the area's Bannock and Shoshone Indian tribes. Parking for American Falls Reservoir is located at the Seagull Bay Boat Club, 2594 Seagull Bay Road. If you need a new vehicle for your summer adventures, consider a high-quality new or pre-owned Toyota. Visit Phil Meador Toyota in Pocatello, ID today to check out our lineup and test drive your top picks.

Pocatello is one of the best places to visit for outdoor recreation, but you don't have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy the region's nature. Some of the easier trails in the area are perfect for beginner hiking, awarding you with stunning scenic views. Let's explore them. more 4 of the Easier Trails with Scenic Views for Beginner Hiking near Pocatello 1. City Creek Over the Top Loop Trail Taking you from the Lower City Creek Trailhead Parking at 805 S Lincoln Ave to the last connection with City Creek Street, this 9-mile loop trail is perfect for folks who want to explore the Pocatello area with their families. It gains over 1,000 feet in elevation, offering gorgeous views of Pocatello and the surrounding areas. For a shorter hike, taking the turn at the intersection with the Rim Trail should get you back to the starting point in just over an hour. 2. Millward Mile Trail Part of the Riverside Trail, the Millward Mile starts at the Millward Mile Parking at 2845 N Main St and follows along the Portneuf River to Raymond Park. Along the way, you can admire lush urban greenery and watch ducks and geese swim in the nearby river. As a paved trail, the Millward Mile is an ideal choice for families with young children. 3. Edson Fichter Pond Loop A popular walking and birdwatching trail near Pocatello, the Edson Fichter Pond Loop is another awesome option for new hikers. The loop is accessible from the nearby Edson Fichter Parking Lot at 6009 Arapahoe St and takes about 14 minutes to complete. With plenty of side trails to peruse, fishing areas, and docks, the loop offers a variety of recreational opportunities. 4. Cherry Springs Trail Loop From children to the elderly and special needs individuals, everyone in the family can enjoy a hike along the Cherry Springs Trail Loop. Leave your adventure-ready Toyota RAV4 in the parking lot at 2-702 S Mink Creek Rd and enjoy this stroller-friendly walking trail. Numerous picnic areas with tables, lots of shade, and many side trails make it easy to explore the Cherry Springs Natural Area at your own pace. Whether you're new to Pocatello or just passing by, the many trails and nature reserves in the area are perfect for spending quality time outdoors. If you need a new car to take you places or service your Toyota, visit us at Phil Meador Toyota in Pocatello, ID to schedule a test drive or an appointment.