A Quick Detour Is All It Takes To Access One Of Idaho’s Most Picturesque Waterfalls

Idaho is home to dozens of extraordinary waterfalls, many of which are hiding at the end of hiking trails or deep in the wilderness. There are also plenty of waterfalls that are quite easy to find — if you know where to look for them, that is. Located right off the freeway, the easy-access waterfall at Malad Gorge in southern Idaho is a brilliant sight and it's a terrific destination for nature lovers traveling through the area. Rather than search for "waterfalls near me," here is one gorgeous cascade you need to check out.

Hiding in plain sight along Interstate 84 south of Bliss, Malad Gorge State Park is a surprisingly convenient adventure destination. Travelers who take the time to stop at this roadside park will be treated to views of a rugged gorge and a spectacular waterfall that flows into it.

Malad Gorge is one of several units within Thousand Springs State Park. To access it, simply take the Tuttle exit 147 from I-84 and turn right at the stop sign, following the signs pointing you toward the park. There is an admission fee per vehicle for all Idaho state parks.

If you want to learn even more about Thousand Springs State Park, check out our feature article on this remarkable and beautiful place to visit.

Once you arrive at the park, you'll be in outright awe of what was hiding right underneath the interstate — a rugged, 250-foot-deep canyon formed by the Malad River. Known as Malad Gorge, it is simply stunning.

Visitors can explore the area via a flat hiking trail that follows the canyon's rim. From here, you'll have a fantastic vantage point of the crystal-clear springs that pop out of the canyon's walls, forming ponds and streams at the bottom of the canyon.

Be sure to head to the pedestrian bridge that arcs across the canyon near the waterfall overlook. This spot provides the absolute best view of Malad Gorge and all of its beauty, but that's not all. What you really want to see is actually right underneath the bridge.

Walk across the bridge and keep following the path. You'll soon reach the official overlook for Devil's Washbowl and the raging falls that pours into it from the Malad River. It's hard to believe such a spectacular sight is just a short detour off of I-84!

This magnificent view of Devil's Washbowl and Malad Gorge is well-worth a brief side trip when traveling through the area.

If you'd like to extend your adventure, consider making the drive to other units in Thousand Springs State Park like Box Canyon or Niagara Springs.

Do you often find yourself searching for "waterfalls near me in Idaho?" Have you been to this easy-access waterfall in southern Idaho? Share your experiences with us in the comments!

For more destinations like this one, check out this article featuring 10 No-Hike, Roadside Waterfalls In Idaho.