The Most Epic North Idaho Waterfalls Road Trip Is Here - And You'll Want To Do It

Northern Idaho, we have arrived! Idaho’s Panhandle is awesomely blessed with an abundance of tree-lined mountains and a cooler climate. This near-perfect combination of natural elements not only makes for an idyllic getaway but combines to create some absolutely breathtaking waterfalls around virtually every corner. During spring run-off these falls are at the height of their glory as they come cascading over rocky precipices in stunning ethereal sprays.

In fact, Northern Idaho is so filled to the brim with waterfalls that this road trip is by far the longest we’ve published so far, taking courageous Idaho travelers just shy of the Canadian border and back, making it ideal for an extended three or four-day weekend (see note below). At more than 350 miles and 12 hours of drive time, you’ll be guided to nine awesome cataracts, with the opportunity to see a dozen or so more along the way. If you’re ready to check out some of our state’s most epic falls to date, just follow along!

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Nordman, ID 83848, USA

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Right on the Idaho-Washington border, Granite Falls tumbles and careens over a maze of boulders and fallen trees crisscrossing the creek bed. Just a few miles beyond Nordman, you'll find an easy trailhead at Stagger Inn Camp. Continue on for 100 yards or so to locate LaSota Falls as well. Both the upper and lower falls are fantastic!

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Torrelle Falls, Idaho 83856, USA

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A humble stream cascading only 15 feet or so, Torrelle is lovely in its simplicity. From Priest River, take Scenic Route 57 just shy of 10 miles, where the falls are easily accessed by vehicle.

You can also continue north to find Mission Falls along the upper West Branch of Priest River. For close-up access, park across the river and walk a quarter of a mile down the jeep trail to a road junction. After taking the right fork at this junction, continue down the path for two miles or so, following the right fork.

Shadow Falls, Idaho, USA

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A stunning setting and veil-like sprays mean these falls are popular for good reason! Fortunately, the trail to get here is short and perfect for all ages.

Ready to visit? Get more info on how to find both Shadow and Fern Falls.

Char Falls, Idaho 83864, USA

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Located in the Sandpoint Ranger District of the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, these falls require a moderate hike as well as caution when nearing the fall’s open ledge. From Lightning Creek Road, you will encounter Char Falls first. You'll need four-wheel drive or good old fashioned foot power for the next four miles upstream to Wellington Creek.

The extra effort is absolutely worth it to see this waterfall up close. Check out our previous article highlighting Char Falls and Wellington Creek Falls to learn more.

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Grouse Creek Falls, Idaho 83864, USA

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Gently cascading 15 to 20 feet over bedrock in a series of steps, Grouse Creek Falls (creek pictured) is easy to access. After parking at the turnout on Road #280, visitors will need to take a brief half-mile trail.

Snow Creek Falls, Idaho 83805, USA

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Off of Snow Creek Road in the Bonners Ferry Ranger District, turn left for a restricted view of the 75 to 125 foot falls. Or, trek down a short wooden trail that will give you up-close access - close enough to feel the spray!

The pretty hike to Snow Creek Falls is an absolute must-do.

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Myrtle Creek, Idaho 83805, USA

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After driving through the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, you’ll find the Myrtle Creek Falls trailhead a few hundred yards northwest of the Refuge visitor center. From there, an easy trail will take you to an exceptional viewing outlook halfway up the fall's main cascade. It's one of the most impressive waterfalls in Northern Idaho, and we highly recommend checking it out in every season.

Moyie Springs, ID 83845, USA

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With stunning scenery, easy vehicle accessibility, and the largest water volume runoff in an Idaho waterfall under 100 feet, Moyie Falls is undoubtedly one of Idaho’s greatest natural wonders, even rivaling Shoshone Falls in Southern Idaho. The upper portion plummets 60 to 70 feet, while the lower portion tumbles 20 to 40 feet. You'll find numerous pull-off areas for photo ops.

Make this stop a day trip of its own with a visit to the town of Moyie Springs as well.

Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA

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Just shy of the Idaho-Canada border, Copper Falls sits at an elevation of 3,400 feet in the Panhandle National Forest and drops well over 150 feet from the sheer cliff to form an impressive cascade. A short, moderately steep quarter-mile trail to the falls just outside of Eastport is all it takes to view this stunning waterfall.

You can see Canada from here! Learn more about the journey to Copper Creek Falls and start planning your trip.

Elk Creek Falls, Idaho 83827, USA

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We didn't include these falls on our road trip because - let's be honest - they deserve their own adventure! This is one of the most unexpected surprises hidden in Idaho's lower Panhandle.

Lace up those hiking boots and get all the details on how to visit the tallest waterfall in Idaho.

You’ll notice that this trip doesn’t make a complete loop as our road trips normally do. Due to the impassive nature of Idaho’s uppermost landscape, a series of detours are necessary to return to your original starting point. However, this allows you to make this adventure your own by taking a quick hop into Canada or spending some time camping in Idaho’s hidden recesses. The choice is yours! Rounding out the trip back to Nordman will bring the trip to over 450 miles total. If you know of any shortcuts, let us know!

When you’ve finished this adventure, take in even more scenic sights by experiencing the magic of the International Selkirk Loop.