The Montpelier Idaho Temple is hosting a public open house from Sept. 10 through Sept. 26, 2026, offering community members the opportunity to tour the sacred building before its scheduled dedication on Oct. 18. The event, which began with a media day on Sept. 8, allows the public to explore the facility's interior and grounds without a reservation.
Public Tour Details
The open house, which runs Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., excludes Sundays. According to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the facility is open to everyone, including non-members and those of various religious backgrounds, to learn about the purpose and function of temples.
Touring the Temple
The tours are walking tours that typically last between 45 minutes and one hour. Visitors can walk through various locations, including the entrance, the recommend desk, and the baptistry. Church representatives will be available throughout the tours to answer questions from the public.
Visitor Guidelines
Organizers suggest that visitors wear business casual clothing and comfortable shoes for the walking tour. The temple is wheelchair accessible, and the church provides on-site restrooms and drinking fountains. While all ages are welcome, service animals are not permitted inside the temple, and visitors are asked to refrain from smoking, vaping, or drinking on the property. Additionally, photography and video recording are prohibited inside the temple, and visitors are advised to leave large bags and belongings in their vehicles.
Parking and Logistics
Parking for the open house is available at the Montpelier Idaho Tabernacle on Mondays through Fridays, as well as on Saturdays. If the tabernacle lot is full, overflow parking is available, and a shuttle will transport visitors to the temple. For those requiring handicap parking, spaces are available on-site at the temple.
Local Design Elements
The temple's design reflects the local landscape and heritage. The interior features a chicory flower motif inspired by a flower common to the Montpelier area. The color palette of gold, blue, green, and yellow was chosen to reflect local wildflowers and the turquoise waters of nearby Bear Lake.
Religious Significance
Elder Karl D. Hirst of the United States Central Area Presidency, who presided at the media day on Sept. 8, described the temple as a beautiful and sacred symbol of Jesus Christ's invitation to believers. Elder Hirst noted a personal connection to the area, stating he was baptized within 30 miles of Montpelier, though not at the same time as the local settlers.
Pioneer Heritage
Elder Mark D. Eddy of the Seventy also spoke during the media event, noting that the region's rich pioneer heritage is honored by the opening of this house of the Lord. He described the temple as an expression of God's love for His children and a manifestation of the desire to help them return to His presence.
