If you’re anything like us, you’re a big fan of all the natural beauty that Idaho has to offer – countless hidden gems, waterfalls, and rock formations that take some grueling treks and backcountry knowhow to reach. But Idaho is also home to dozens of falls that aren’t quite as far off the beaten path, perfect for youngsters, families, and waterfall enthusiasts of every age – and they’re all well worth a visit, too. While some of these gorgeous falls can be considered “roadside,” many do involve brief, level, and easily accessible walks. For a few easy and family-friendly adventures this weekend, check out some of these no-hike waterfalls in Idaho.
This popular, towering, 60-foot waterfall in the middle of the Owyhee County desert is unexpected, but totally worth it. Bonus: the walk from your car to the top of Jump Creek Canyon only requires a steep, sandy hike and stepping over some sagebrush! During the summer months, or whenever you feel brave enough for a swim, you can take a dip at the base of the falls.
Oh, Southern Idaho... what a wonder you are. This wall of waterfalls pours out of a canyon wall just off the main road near the Niagara Springs Fish Hatchery in the Niagara Springs unit of Thousand Springs State Park - and boy, is it a beaut!
Lush Northern Idaho is scattered with scenic falls, but many are buried in miles of trees and underbrush. Fortunately, the east side of Priest Lake showcases a number of gorgeous water features! You'll follow a road until it gets too rough, before walking on foot the last 100 feet or so to this lush gem. It's no wonder this gorgeous waterfall is one of the stops on our North Idaho waterfall road trip!
A Twin Falls classic, this plummeting waterfall is as easy to see as you can get. You view them from above, from below, or get an up-close peek via a slippery rock scramble (do note that the rocks here are NOT secure and are highly trafficked - be safe!) For either of the latter options, drive down Canyon Springs Road just as you enter town, following the road down to the Perrine Coulee Falls parking area. Easily one of Idaho's most accessible waterfalls, this destination is perfect for a quick day trip and a quick cool-off as part of a longer adventure.
Idaho Falls' focal waterfalls stretch 1200 feet across the Snake River just off of the River Walk and only half a mile from the center of downtown. While only 20 feet tall, this man-made waterfall is a lovely sight that feels like it stretches as far as the eye can see.
You knew this one would make the list! Turn left as you enter town and just follow the signs to Idaho's most renowned waterfall, which will cost a small fee to access. Or, stick to the upper parking area to view (for free) from afar. But even in the dry season, this beauty is quite the sight! Plus, did you know that this waterfall is nicknamed the Niagara Falls of the West?
This hidden gem takes just a short jaunt through the South Hills to reach - an easy sub-mile walk with a barely noticeable incline. The trail is known for taking a beating sometimes, so be prepared to toss a few branches out of the way. But the drive, hike, and falls are all lovely!
Malad Gorge is a scenic river canyon that cuts into the farmland and is clearly visible from I-84. But what many don't take the time to notice is the multiple immense waterfalls pouring out of the canyon walls as well! Once a volcanic eruption, this giant gash houses a portion of the Snake River, which feeds the falls, one of which plunges into the Devil's Washbowl. This area is just one unit of Thousand Springs State Park. Here, you can walk across a metal bridge directly over the falls, or navigate the interpretive loop for even more views. In fact, the longer you walk, the more unnamed falls you'll see pouring out of the canyon walls.
The Upper and Lower Mesa Falls are a set of pristine Idaho gems, just shy of Idaho's eastern border. Just follow the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, where you can easily access the Grandview Campground Overlook. From here, you'll be able to see the lower falls with ease, and just make out the upper falls. Better access to both falls can be found at the Mesa Falls visitor center, where a paved boardwalk leads to one, and a nature trail leads to the other. Mesa Falls might just be one of Idaho's most overlooked natural wonders.
Last but not least, Fall Creek Falls is a must-visit! The impressive multiple strands of Fall Creek Falls are easily admired just beyond the Falls Campground in Swan Valley with a short stroll to access the viewing point.
Idaho is really something, isn’t it?? While there are PLENTY more no-hike and roadside waterfalls to be found across the state, stay tuned in the upcoming weeks as we explore some of Idaho’s most obscure, hidden waterfalls as well.
In the meantime, hopefully you’ve also checked out our waterfall road trip series (North, East, South, and Central) and are making plans for your next adventure!
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waterfalls in idaho
Beth C. |April 22, 2022
What is a must-visit waterfall in Idaho?
As you've learned from reading the article above, Idaho is home to a treasure trove of beautiful waterfalls, and each of them is worth seeking out. But, if you're curious about the best waterfalls in Idaho, we strongly suggest a visit to Shoshone Falls. Located near Twin Falls, this breathtaking waterfall plunges off of a 212-foot tall and 925-foot wide cliff, and it's absolutely worthy of a place on your outdoor bucket list for Idaho. Another very tall waterfall in Idaho that's sure to impress you is Upper Mesa Falls, which measures 114 feet. Can't get enough waterfalls? Check out our road trip to some of the most epic waterfalls in Idaho!
