Hiking in Idaho to a stunning waterfall is one of our favorite things to do, and one of Idaho's most notable waterfalls is also one of its most accessible. The utterly gorgeous Upper and Lower Mesa Falls near Ashton are one of the few major waterfalls in Idaho that haven't been affected by irrigation or other manmade influences. As a result, these natural falls have a unique untouched look to them. If you haven't seen them for yourself, then you need to plan a trip as soon as possible. Luckily, this Idaho boardwalk trail makes seeing the falls an easy and accessible experience for most people. The falls are obviously stunning, but the hike is just as delightful!
One of Idaho's greatest natural wonders is the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls located near Ashton. The beauty these falls boast is unparalleled, making them one of those "must-visit" places here in the Gem State. Luckily for us, there's a boardwalk hiking trail that leads you right to the falls!
This boardwalk trail leads you to an iconic overlook of the Upper Falls. The trail begins at the Mesa Falls Lodge and loops around the top of the falls before meandering back down the canyon to bring you back to the lodge.
The trail is handicap accessible for the most part (some viewpoints are not accessible due to staircases) and well-maintained, making it a nice trail for people of all ages and skill levels. It's just 0.6 miles out and back, but you'll definitely want to schedule enough time to absorb the incredible beauty that this region has to offer.
Eventually, you'll come across some stairs that will lead you up to the overlook of the waterfall. Don't let the steps intimidate you. There's only an elevation gain of 55 feet, and it's definitely doable for most hikers.
As the trees open up, you're treated to breathtaking views of Henry's Fork below. It's hard to believe that Idaho hiking trails can get any more scenic than this—but they do.
At last, you'll come to the payoff of the hike: the lovely and incredible Upper Mesa Falls. The overlook allows you to get close enough to the waterfall to take a stellar photograph of this magnificent scene.
This trail is accessible all year long and is a must for all Idahoans. Thanks to the boardwalk, seeing the Upper Falls is a quick and easy adventure that you're sure to love.
To get to the falls on your way to West Yellowstone from Highway 20, turn east on Highway 47 near Ashton. As you travel along the byway you'll come across the Lower Falls first, and then the Upper Falls further on.
Have you completed this scenic boardwalk hike to Upper Mesa Falls? If you can't quite make it down to southern Idaho for this waterfall adventure, go ahead and check out this epic North Idaho waterfall road trip. You'll find plenty more wonderful places to go hiking in Idaho. Be sure to download AllTrails+ to get the best trail info and current maps.
Ritter Island is home to some of the most beautiful and picturesque waterfalls in Idaho. This incredible Idaho gem sits along the Snake River and features historic structures and two natural springs. But what you may not know is Ritter Island is also home to the Ritter Island Loop Trail, a short, family-friendly, easy trail that gives you incredible views of the falls. In fact, it may just be one of the best waterfall hikes in Idaho.
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If you are looking for a fabulous day trip destination in Idaho, Ritter Island must be at the top of your list. Located in Thousand Springs State Park, this destination is like an escape from the outside world. It’s beautiful here and home to many remarkable features, including the Ritter Island Loop Trail.
This trail is also lesser known so don’t be surprised if you get to enjoy these views all by yourself. It’s a beautiful and relaxing day out in nature.
Keep in mind that Ritter Island is only open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., during the summer months. You will want to plan your visit accordingly.
And, of course, once you are done exploring the Ritter Island Loop Trail, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore other areas of this state park including the historic Rock House and Yellow House.
For more information on the Ritter Island Loop Trail, visit AllTrails. And make sure to check out AllTrails+ for the ability to download trail maps, know trail conditions before you go, and more. I also recommend visiting the Idaho Parks and Recreation website to learn about Ritter Island.
Have you ever visited Ritter Island? What are some of your favorite things to do in this Idaho state park? Have you ever hiked this trail? Let us know in the comments.
There are over 60 named waterfalls in Idaho, and each one is more beautiful than the next. Spring and summer are the best times of year to go chasing waterfalls, and we’ve got some of the best waterfalls to add to your bucket list. You may even be inspired to take a waterfall road trip! From waterfalls in a National Park to roadside cascades you can view from your windshield, these waterfalls are all worthy of a day trip.
One of my favorite things about Idaho’s waterfalls is that they come in all shapes and sizes. If you want to be impressed by the power of Mother Nature, then you need to pay a visit to some of the tallest waterfalls in Idaho.
Need To Know The hiking trail is difficult, but doable
Starting off strong with one of Idaho’s tallest waterfalls, Goat Falls will make you work for it. The eight-mile trail to Goat Falls is rugged, to say the least. But the payoff is worth it when you view the tallest waterfall in the Sawtooth Mountains!
Need To Know This waterfall is often called the “Niagara of the West”
You’ll find Shoshone Falls just outside of Twin Falls. As one of the tallest waterfalls in Idaho, expect to be dazzled! The waterfall clocks in at 212 feet tall and 925 feet wide. No wonder why it’s called the Niagara of the West!
Elk Creek Falls is located about 50 miles east of Moscow in northern Idaho. This unique waterfall is actually three individual waterfalls, so be sure to check out the upper, middle, and lower falls for the full experience. The hike to Elk Creek Falls is about 2.6 miles, and it’s a loop trail so you don’t have to do any backtracking.
Best Waterfall Hikes In Idaho
Ready to hit the trails? These waterfall hikes are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll be traversing through enchanting forests, between canyon walls, and through some of the most breathtaking scenery in America on these waterfall hikes.
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We’d recommend having an AllTrails + account before you go. These trails are mostly well-maintained, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry on these outdoor adventures!
Need To Know You’ll get to see two waterfalls for the price of one!
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Both of these waterfalls are nestled along the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. Fern Falls is the first waterfall you’ll come across, and it’s only about a mile from the trailhead. Fern Falls stands at only 12 miles tall, but don’t let its size fool you, this beautiful waterfall in Idaho is assisted by its incredibly enchanting surroundings.
Shadow Falls is slightly more hidden than Fern Falls, but if you can ascend up the steeper trail, you’ll be met with the beautiful 24-foot-tall Shadow Falls.
Need To Know You can practically drive right up to this waterfall
Fall Creek Falls might be one of the most photographed waterfalls in Idaho. If you take the one-mile trail at the base of the falls, you have the option to soak in the fall’s pools, too! Make sure you’re wearing good hiking shoes, because you’ll need to do a little scrambling to get to the pool, and those rocks may be slippery.
Need To Know The hike to the waterfall is family-friendly
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The Goose Creek Falls trail is one of the more family-friendly trails on the list. The three-mile trail is well-maintained and only boasts a mere 685 feet of elevation. After an easy walk through the forest, you’ll see the waterfall. You might even have the place to yourself!
Need To Know This tiered waterfall is completely natural
Nestled within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Mesa Falls is easily one of the most popular tiered waterfalls in Idaho. These impressive waterfalls plunge over 100 feet into the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River, providing a sensational background for photography. Rainbows often appear at Mesa Falls, so if you don’t see one when you arrive just wait… they come like clockwork!
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The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is one of the many scenic drives in Idaho, and even though it’s only 28 miles, it packs a punch!
Accessible Waterfalls In Idaho (no hiking required)
While many of these cascades require you to clock in a few miles on a hiking trail, there are plenty of cascades that are only a short stroll from the car. Here are some of the most accessible waterfalls in Idaho with little to no hiking required. Many of them even have a viewing platform, too.
Need To Know There is a quarter-mile hiking trail and is mostly ADA-accessible
I know we just talked about finding waterfalls with little to no hiking required, but this one needs to make the list. The trail to Myrtle Falls is only a quarter-mile long and is ADA-accessible up until you get to a footbridge, which may be tricky for wheelchairs or strollers. There is an observation point with a viewing platform to view the falls, and boy are they a beauty! Myrtle Falls clocks in at about 100 feet tall, and it’s surrounded by towering pine trees. Spring is the best time of year to view most waterfalls, but this one especially. Even better if you can view it after a rainfall.
Flowing directly out of the canyon wall into the Snake River Canyon in Thousand Springs State Park, Niagara Springs is a must-see waterfall. The waterfall can be seen from the road, so you don’t even have to get out of your car to witness this magical cascade.
Need To Know This is a very popular spot with locals and tourists
Idaho Falls is one of southern Idaho’s most charming towns, and it’s easy to fill up an entire weekend with activities here. The Idaho Falls Greenbelt offers beautiful views of the Snake River along its 10-mile path, though you don’t have to take on the whole 10 miles. The trail runs for five miles on each side of the river, and there are plenty of park benches and picnic tables peppered along the way so you can sit for a spell and soak it all in.
Best Waterfalls Near Boise
While many waterfalls in Idaho are found in remote areas, there are plenty that are near major cities. In addition to some of our favorite southern Idaho waterfalls, these waterfalls near Boise are worth checking out. These waterfalls are within a two-hour drive from Boise.
Need To Know There’s a natural swimming pool at the base of the falls
Clocking in at 60 feet, Jump Creek Falls is a must-see waterfall in Idaho. More than just a cascade, this waterfall also boasts a natural swimming pool, too! Go ahead, make a splash. It will feel great after the 0.6-mile hiking trail you’ll need to take to access the waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, but there is not much shade so you’ll want to bring plenty of sunscreen for the trek.
Need To Know Make sure you’re parking in designated areas. Hairpin turns can be dangerous places to stop.
Standing tall at almost 200 feet, the Perrine Coulee Waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Idaho. It’s also one of the most easily accessible. The easiest way to view this waterfall is from below, at the Centennial Waterfront Park. This city park is filled with adrenaline-inducing adventures including zip lines and base jumping off the Perrine Bridge. You can even rent a kayak and go check out another nearby waterfall, Pillar Falls.
How many of these dreamy cascades have you seen in person? Let us know in the comments below!
