Idaho is home to some of the most magnificent waterfalls in the United States. From the thunderous Niagara Falls-like Shoshone Falls on the Snake River, to small cascades like those found in Mesa Falls and Lower Salmon Falls, Idaho has a wide range of waterfall experiences.
List of Top Idaho Falls to Visit
Details on Waterfalls You’ll Find in Idaho
Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls is one of Idaho’s largest and most popular waterfalls with its dramatic 212 foot drop into Snake River Canyon. The falls are easily accessible from Twin Falls, making them an ideal day trip destination for visitors to southern Idaho. Every year thousands come here to witness this amazing natural wonder as it tumbles over ancient lava flows into a deep pool below.
Mesa Falls
Mesa Falls on Henrys Fork near Ashton, ID offers two spectacular views; Upper Mesa Fall which drops about 109 feet and Lower Mesa Fall which drops about 65 feet down a narrow canyon walls. Both offer breathtaking views but also require steep hikes or rides upriver by boat to reach them so be sure you’re prepared for this adventure before setting out!
Lower Salmon River Waterfall
Lower Salmon River Waterfall located near Riggins, ID is another beautiful cascade that plunges approximately 60 feet down into a large pool at its base surrounded by lush forested areas perfect for swimming or picnicking under the shade of towering pines. It’s easy access makes this an ideal spot for families looking for an outdoor experience without too much effort required!
Bliss Rapids Waterfall
Bliss Rapids Waterfall near Boise offers whitewater rafting enthusiasts thrilling rapids along with several smaller cascades that can be enjoyed from shore or after paddling through them in your own private rafting expedition! With multiple trips offered daily during warmer months there’s no better way explore these hidden gems than with experienced guides who know exactly where all the best spots are located along our rivers and streams!
Top ten best waterfalls in Idaho
1. Shoshone Falls
Located on the Snake River near Twin Falls, Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in North America, with a 212-foot drop into an 800-foot wide pool at its base. The roaring waters can be viewed from several observation points along both sides of the river and from a pedestrian bridge crossing over it.
2. Lower Mesa Falls
This spectacular waterfall located on Henry’s Fork near Ashton offers stunning views as it tumbles down more than 100 feet into a deep canyon lined with basalt columns and lush vegetation. A short hike leads you right up to its edge for an unforgettable experience!
3. Middle Fork Salmon River Waterfall
This powerful cascade drops 300 feet over two tiers before crashing onto rocks below in one of Idaho’s most remote wilderness areas near Stanley Lake Creek Campground . It can only be accessed by boat or foot so make sure you bring your hiking shoes if you want to witness this beauty firsthand!
4. Pillar Falls
Situated just outside Boise, Pillar Falls plunges nearly 80 feet off a cliff face surrounded by thick forest and rocky outcroppings creating quite an impressive sight indeed! You can even find swimming holes here depending on when you visit during summer months.
5. Rainbow Falls
Found just south of Grangeville alongside Highway 13 lies Rainbow falls which stands almost 60 feet tall amidst wildflower meadows and old growth trees making it truly picturesque . A popular spot for hikers, kayakers, fisherman, and photographers alike.
6. Elk Creek Waterfall
Boasting multiple tiers reaching heights upwards 50 ft makes Elk Creek another must see waterfall while exploring Central Idaho! Not far from McCall there is easy access and plenty of spots where visitors may also enjoy fishing & camping accomodations.
7. Hells Canyon Waterfall
Towering above Hells Canyon gorge comes this 200ft plunge known as “Hells Canyon Waterfall” which features some amazing scenery including forests & wildlife like bighorn sheep & mountain goats who often gather around its misty spray ! Reaching such great heights makes this one very unique destination worth seeking out !
8. Imnaha River Gorge
Another fantastic spot featuring multiple cascades throughout Imnaha River Gorge, providing exciting opportunities for adventurers willing to explore further within Eastern Oregon borders. While the waterfall isn’t overly, high each individual cascading section creates a beautiful scene that’s perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.
9. Clearwater Cascades
These three separate waterfall drops combine to form a single powerful falls measuring about 75ft in total height. Situated along Clearwater National Forest boundaries between Orofino Powell and Lewiston, the area provides an excellent option for those planning a day trip in the great outdoors.
10. Kelly Forks Cascade
Cascade Falls is located in the Boise National Forest near Cascade, Idaho. The falls are a popular tourist destination and feature a large pool at the base of the falls. Visitors can take pictures from an observation platform to capture stunning views of this majestic waterfall. There are several trails leading to the top of Cascade Falls, where visitors can experience breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness areas.
Why it’s good to explore the great outdoors of Idaho
Exploring the great outdoors is an incredibly rewarding experience. It can help foster a sense of appreciation for nature, offer opportunities to build physical and mental strength, and provide a much-needed escape from everyday life. Being in nature helps us become more aware of our environment, appreciate its beauty, and understand how we are connected with it.
This connection can be both calming and inspiring—allowing us to take time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life to relax and recharge our batteries. The physical benefits that come with exploring the great outdoors should also not be underestimated. Hiking through forests or scaling mountains gives you exercise which boosts your heart rate as well as muscle strength—making it ideal for those looking for a more active lifestyle.
Additionally, getting outside offers Vitamin D exposure (which we often lack due to spending too much time indoors) which helps strengthen bones by increasing calcium absorption into the body. On top of this, being in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels while providing psychological benefits such as improved moods and better sleep quality—helping us feel happier overall! Being surrounded by natural landscapes also encourages creative thinking; allowing ideas to flow freely without distractions or interruptions found in our everyday lives. In short, there are countless reasons why exploring the great outdoors is beneficial for both physical health and wellbeing – so get out there today!
Map and Location of Waterfalls in Idaho
Check out our Idaho Waterfalls Map for even more cascading falls to explore!
Best Waterfalls in Idaho
1. Shoshone Falls – Twin Falls
2. Lower Mesa Falls – Ashton
3. Upper Mesa Falls – Ashton
4. Salmon Falls Creek – Hagerman
5. Kirkham Hot Springs Waterfall – Riggins
6. Jump Creek Waterfalls – Marsing
7. Osprey Falls – McCall
8. Bridal Veil Falls – Cascade
9. Pillar Falls – Stanley
10. Myrtle Creek Waterfall Trail – Boise
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