Iona, ID

Iona is a small city located in Bonneville County, Idaho, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, near the border of Wyoming. The history of Iona dates back to the late 19th century.

In the 1870s, Iona was primarily a rural farming area settled by Mormon pioneers who were attracted to the fertile lands of the Snake River Valley. These settlers were mainly from Utah and were looking for new areas to establish their communities. They called the area Iona, after a small island off the west coast of Scotland known for its religious significance.

The first permanent settlers arrived in Iona in 1879. They established farms and began cultivating crops, primarily grains and potatoes. Irrigation systems were developed to make agriculture possible, and the Mormon settlers played a vital role in building these systems. The early community grew steadily, aided by the construction of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1903, which made transportation and trade easier.

Iona quickly became an important agricultural center, known for its production of potatoes, wheat, and other crops. Many of the original settlers' descendants still reside in the area, and farming remains a significant part of Iona's economy.

Over time, the city of Iona has experienced growth and development. Schools were established, churches were built, and community organizations were formed. In the 20th century, with the advent of better transportation infrastructure and the growth of nearby cities, such as Idaho Falls, Iona started to become more integrated with the surrounding urban areas.

Today, Iona maintains its rural charm while being part of a larger metropolitan area. The city continues to be primarily residential, with its residents still actively involved in agriculture. It also benefits from its proximity to natural attractions like the Snake River and the nearby Targhee National Forest, attracting visitors for outdoor recreational activities.

Iona's history as a farming community and its connection to the Mormon settlers who first established it are still celebrated and remembered by its residents. The city continues to provide a close-knit community and a rural lifestyle for its residents, while being part of the dynamic growth of the surrounding region.

Iona Nature Park

This beautiful park offers walking trails, a fishing pond, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Sandcreek Commons Park

A community park with playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails.

Iona Lake

A popular spot for fishing, boating, and paddleboarding.

Bonneville County Museum

Located nearby in Idaho Falls, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Bonneville County area.

Historic Downtown Idaho Falls

Just a short drive away, downtown Idaho Falls offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a scenic river walk.

Tautphaus Park Zoo

Located in Idaho Falls, this zoo features a wide range of animal species and is a great place for families to visit.

Idaho Falls Greenbelt

A picturesque walking and biking trail that follows the scenic Snake River and offers views of waterfalls and wildlife.

Museum of Idaho

Another attraction in Idaho Falls, this museum features exhibits on natural history, cultural heritage, and rotating art displays.

Idaho Farm and Ranch Museum

This museum showcases the history, equipment, and traditions of farming and ranching in Idaho.

Bear World

A wildlife park located in Rexburg, just a short distance from Iona, where visitors can observe bears, elk, bison, and other North American wildlife in their natural habitat.

Iona, Idaho has a semi-arid climate which is characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters. The town experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.

Summers in Iona are generally hot with average temperatures ranging from the mid to high 80s Fahrenheit (around 29-32 degrees Celsius). July and August are the warmest months, with temperatures occasionally reaching the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 32-35 degrees Celsius). Summers also bring low humidity levels, making the heat more bearable.

Winters in Iona are cold and snowy. Average temperatures during the winter months, particularly December and January, range from the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 0 degrees Celsius). Temperatures can dip below freezing, with occasional cold spells dropping them to single digits or even below zero Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, with Iona receiving around 30-40 inches (76-102 cm) of snow annually.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring is characterized by gradual warming, with temperatures in April ranging from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius). Autumn brings cooler temperatures again, with average highs in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius) in October.

Precipitation in Iona is relatively low, with an average of around 12 inches (30 cm) annually. Most of the precipitation occurs during the spring and early summer months through rain showers and thunderstorms.

It's worth noting that climate conditions can vary from year to year, and occasional heatwaves or severe cold spells may occur. It is always recommended to check local weather forecasts for the most up-to-date information.

Iona is a small city located in Bonneville County, Idaho, with a population of just over 1,800 people. While Iona itself does not have distinct neighborhoods, there are a few areas nearby that are often considered part of the greater Iona community. Here are some of the surrounding areas that are commonly associated with Iona:

Iona North

Located to the north of Iona, this area is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and some agricultural land. It is relatively quiet and has a rural charm, with larger lots and open spaces.

Iona South

Situated to the south of Iona, this area is similar to Iona North in terms of its residential and agricultural composition. It also has a peaceful atmosphere and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Woodville

Found to the east of Iona, Woodville is a small unincorporated community. It is known for its scenic landscapes, consisting of farmland and open spaces. There are some houses and farms in this area, but it is more sparsely populated compared to Iona itself.

Bonneville

To the west of Iona lies the unincorporated community of Bonneville. It is mainly a farming area, with large agricultural fields and picturesque views of the nearby mountains. Bonneville is more rural in nature and has a slower-paced lifestyle compared to Iona.

Overall, the surrounding areas of Iona, including Iona North, Iona South, Woodville, and Bonneville, contribute to the quiet and idyllic atmosphere that residents of Iona enjoy. These areas offer a mix of residential and rural landscapes, providing a close-knit community feel while still being within proximity to the amenities of larger nearby cities like Idaho Falls.