Preston

Preston is a city in Franklin County in southeastern Idaho near the Utah border, situated at an elevation of about 4,715 feet. The town center is compact and walkable, with residential neighborhoods surrounding the core and straightforward access to regional highways.

The settlement was founded in 1866 as Worm Creek and received its current name in 1881 to honor William B. Preston. This change marked an important turning point in the town's development as a regional center.

The city gained national attention as a filming location for the 2004 movie Napoleon Dynamite, which portrays life at the local high school. Visitors can recognize filming locations throughout the streets and buildings of the town.

The city is easily accessible via U.S. Route 91 and State Route 36, which connect directly to nearby towns in Idaho and Utah. Those exploring on foot will find the central area manageable with short distances between main locations.

The city experiences pronounced temperature swings between seasons, from harsh winters to warm summers in this high-elevation region. These extremes shape how vegetation appears and influence the daily rhythms of residents.

Location: Franklin County

Inception: 1866

Elevation above the sea: 1,437 m

Website: http://prestonidaho.net

GPS coordinates: 42.09530,-111.87500

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:21