Steeped in History
The Glenns Ferry region of Elmore County began its life as the crossing point for settlers as they made their way across the Snake River. As the West was settled, the Carey Act of 1924 and the Oregon Short Line Railroad offered settlers the opportunity of a better life, so the Glenns Ferry region grew into a transfer station for railroad employees and their families, along with settlers who had the dream of farming and raising livestock.
This area of Elmore County is known for its rich fertile soil and temperate climate, ideal for growing a variety of agricultural commodities. This area of the county offers 2 historical schools that have become museums of days gone by, the Hammett Schoolhouse and the Glenns Ferry Historical Museum. The Glenns Ferry Historical Opera Theater, which is still in operation with shows throughout the year, and the Three Island State Park and Oregon Trail Interpretive Center are also located in the city of Glenns Ferry.
One of the many attractions of this area is the Academy of Equine Dentistry which offers services and training to students from all over the world in equine dentistry. The Equine Gnathological Museum is located in downtown Glenns Ferry and showcases the tools and other instruments used in equine dentistry.
And let’s not forget about the Snake River that runs through this region offering year-round fishing, duck hunting, and loads of water activities accessible through the multiple public boat docks along the river‘s edge. This area offers ample camping locations and many hiking trails including the beginning of the Blue Bird Trail and the beginning of the Idaho Oregon Snake River Water Trail. The official name for the Bluebird Trail is the Elman Goodman Mountain Bluebird Trail located along Bennett Mountain Road. Access to sites that offer big game trophy hunting for elk, mule deer, antelope, and birds lie right outside of the town of Glenns Ferry and wildlife can be seen throughout the year in this area.
The Elmore County Fairgrounds is always a hub of activity throughout the year. Located in Glenns Ferry and offers an event center, rodeo facilities, and camping for events. The county fair takes place in July and offers a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of many Elmore County residents and showcases the agricultural talent of our local youth.
The unincorporated areas of Hammett and King Hill help support the city of Glenns Ferry through their agricultural and livestock operations, keeping this area of Elmore County an agricultural center of commerce for the county.
