Living in Idaho means you tend to learn how to gain a sense of adventure. You likely even claim pride in seeking out those totally unknown, hard-to-find spots. As much as we love those off-the-beaten-path wonders, sometimes we're simply not in the mood for an all-day (or multi-day) excursion. Occasionally, we'd just rather opt for a quick morning or afternoon trip. In this case, a visit to one of the many easy-access waterfalls in Idaho is definitely something you'll want to check out. These waterfalls may be easy to find, but they will show you some of the most memorable sights in the state.
1. Lower Mesa Falls: Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Ashton, ID 83420
The Lower Mesa Falls may not be as popular as its sibling, the Upper Mesa Falls (which you can find further upriver), this gushing cascade of water is more than worth stopping at. Lower Mesa Falls is a beautiful 65-foot cascade on Henry's Fork. Outstanding views of this waterfall in eastern Idaho can be seen from the Grandview Overlook, which is just one mile south of the falls' visitor center. We consider it one of the most underrated natural wonders in Idaho.
Another stunning waterfall in eastern Idaho is Fall Creek Falls. It's a scenic 60-foot cascade into the Snake River that certainly knows how to make an impression. It consists of multiple spring-like cascades that, when combined with extraordinary surroundings, make for a sight to be seen! You can find it by driving east on Highway 26 from Idaho Falls going towards Jackson Hole. As you enter Swan Valley, the turnoff for Fall Creek Falls is right before the Snake River bridge. If you visit during the summer, you'll be greeted by a magnificent swimming hole!
3. Shoshone Falls at Shoshone Falls Park: 4155 Shoshone Falls Grade, Twin Falls, ID 83301
Of course, the most famous waterfall in Idaho had to make this list! Shoshone Falls is one of the Gem State's greatest gems. It's such a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. It's certainly easy to see why: the waterfall is one of the most impressive in the state. You can easily get a great view of it at Shoshone Falls Park. It's no wonder it's often referred to as the Niagara of the West.
Perrine Coulee Falls is a must-see cascade, especially considering it's the only year-round waterfall in Twin Falls. This 200-foot, free-falling waterfall is a stellar sight within the rugged Snake River Canyon. The falls are easily seen from above, on the canyon rim trail, or from below, before you get to Centennial Waterfront Park. There's even an easy trail that leads you right behind the waterfall.
5. Ritter Island in Thousand Springs State Park: 1205 Thousand Springs Grade, Wendell, ID 83355
Please note that Ritter Island State Park is closed seasonally and typically opens after Memorial Day.
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Ritter Island State Park is a lesser-known gem in southern Idaho. It's one of seven units within Thousand Springs State Park. Its most notable feature is (you guessed it) a towering waterfall. It's easily viewed while exploring the island park or from across the river at 1000 Springs Resort.
6. Myrtle Falls in Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge: West Side Rd, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805
Waterfalls in north Idaho are sometimes tough to find. They're often hiding deep in the hard-to-reach wilderness. However, some don't fit that stereotype! There are a handful that take just a small hike to see firsthand, like the incredible Myrtle Falls. Located in the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, it takes just a 0.5-mile trek to reach this gem. The trail is quite gentle and can be found right across from the refuge's headquarters. There's even a great little bridge where you can take in all the sights.
How many of these easy-access waterfalls in Idaho have you been to? Share your experiences in the comments. It just goes to show that everybody can be an adventurer in Idaho - no matter your age, abilities, or skill level.
What are your favorite easily accessible wonders in Idaho? Let us know by nominating them and maybe you'll see them featured in a future article!
If you do plan to spend some time outside, such as on a waterfall hike, make sure you are prepared. Check out our ultimate hiking list featuring 75 must-have hiking accessories.
I love living in Idaho. I’m pretty sure that Mother Nature did some of her best work with the hidden gems and natural wonders found throughout our great state. And while there are many incredible places that inspire and awe, Warm Springs Creek Falls is one lesser-known area that every Idahoan should know about. This unique destination is remote but it's filled with some of our favorite things about Idaho — a scenic drive, hiking trail, hot spring, and beautiful waterfall. It's a pure delight.
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The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is a destination that every Idahoan should add to their bucket list. While there are several ways to explore this area, U.S. 12, also known as the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway is one of our favorites. This is Idaho’s longest byway as it follows the route Lewis and Clark took in 1803. U.S. 12 is just a small portion of this scenic drive.
This byway is beautiful as you pass multiple historic parks and trails, state parks, and more. It’s a drive that will certainly take your breath away. And, located right next to the road is the trailhead for Warm Springs Creek Falls. This is one trail that is worth lacing up your hiking boots and going on an adventure.
The parking area and trailhead are located just east of Jerry Johnson Campground, right by the Lochsa River — just look for the gorgeous bridge that crosses the river. If you complete the trail in its entirety, you will travel approximately 9 miles and climb more than 1,300 feet in elevation.
The first few miles of this trail are where you'll encounter the most people as it leads to the beautiful and popular Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. The journey to the hot springs is just two miles and quite flat, making it doable for even beginning hikers.
The trail takes you along Warm Springs Creek and through the forest. When you reach the hot springs, you’ll find several hot pools, perfect for taking a nice, long soak. And while you’ll want some time in the hot springs, I recommend you wait until you come back down the trail. For this adventure, we are going to pass the hot pools and continue on.
You’ll head deeper into the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness and you’ll walk through thick forests and some serene meadows. Keep an eye out for animals who may come up and say hello and the various vegetation growing along your way.
We also recommend you come prepared with proper footwear, long pants, bug spray, and lots of water. The trail past the hot springs is not as well maintained and easy to follow as the first part of your journey.
The last 1.5 miles will be some of the hardest as you’ll encounter some steep inclines. Feel free to take several breaks and admire the beauty surrounding you. There is so much to love here.
At the end of the trail, you’ll come to an overlook where you’ll get to view the remote, yet enchanting Warm Springs Creek Falls. It’s a pretty magical sight.
If you wish to venture all the way to Warm Springs Creek Falls, tacking this trail in the summer and early fall is best. Due to the higher elevation, spring and late fall can bring lots of snow along your way. But, no matter when you go, you’ll fall in love with the entire journey from the drive on the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway to the waterfall at the end. Idaho is so easy to love.
For more information on this trail and to read recent hikers’ reviews, visit AllTrails.
What are some of your favorite hikes in Idaho? Have you ever soaked in Jerry Johnson Hot Springs? Have you explored the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
