Niagra of the West!…read more The 212ft waterfall is a jewel destination for the state of Idaho. Spectacular viewpoints, paved pathways for hiking and bicycling. Picnic tables with views. Boat ramp available. *If you have the time, hike the pathway for a few miles to the famous launch site of Evil Knievil's attempt to jump across the Snake River!

Shoshone Falls is the Niagara of the West located in Idaho! We drove from Salt Lake City, Utah…read morewhile vacationing this past summer. There is a small fee of $5 to enter. The park is beautiful, bathrooms are clean, educational signs and its well taken care of. Honestly it wasn't Niagara falls on this particular day we went. I was honestly disappointed. I gave it 4* because its a very nice park for all to enjoy. Maybe on a rainy day the falls will put on a show. Tip: drive around park, Dierkes beautiful lake is in this park. I will review lake in another post.

Wow!! What an experience of a lifetime. Spending time in Jarbidge is like traveling back in time…read more It's the most wild, untouched area in the lower 48. Were coming back here every year and brining the whole family for another jarbidge adventure.

An absolutely gorgeous family friendly park located on the edge of Twin Falls. Centennial park has…read morewaterfalls, hiking trails, multiple docks to the Snake River, a playground, multiple picnic areas, grassy areas, rocky terrain to explore, and more. Theres really so much to do here for the entire family. During peak season they even have a zip line open. The parking was ample, the bathrooms and park were kept clean, and the park really provided a nice well rounded experience for everyone. I definitely recommend stopping by here for the views if nothing else if you're in the area.

Definitely really neat to check out and get an amazing picture of the bridge! I loved going and…read morewatching the sunset at bridge. Truly breathtaking!

So awesome sight seeing. The water was so clear. Could see the fish swimming with such carefree…read moremovements. Seen a guy up to his knees in that snow run-off water fly fishing. Hope he caught something.

I am really confused. How is this possible??? I thought Idaho was known as..."the potato state"…read more But I am wrong. I admit it and I take responsibility. Idaho is really known for its WATERFALLS!!! Yes, waterfalls! I am from Florida and now I know going forward, if you're interested in exploring around some of the USA's most beautiful waterfalls...then come visit Idaho! And so with that dramatic introduction, lol...I'd like to present, well...it's not really Ritter Island State Park...it's more like...LEMMON FALLS located inside Ritter Island. Lemmon Falls is absolutely jaw dropping fantastic! It was the highlight of my visit here. I don't know the height of Lemmon Falls and I tried searching for it online and couldn't find the exact number. But, regardless...it splashes down the cliffside in front of your eyes. You don't have to work hard to be rewarded. Let me explain... You can plug Lemmon Falls into Google Maps and be guided into the park just fine. Once you find a parking spot, you'll notice Lemmon Falls as the focal point of the surrounding backdrop off to the left hand side of the main entrance. Simply walk over to the falls. It's a 5 - 10 minute stroll. From the pathway, you have access to Lemmon Falls and opportunities for magical picture moments. Some visitors climbed on the rocks for closer perspectives, but I didn't find that necessary. From the pedestrian path, photos were very impressive. Lemmon Falls, alongside Perrine Coulee Falls and Fall Creek Falls have been some of my favorite waterfalls exploring around Southern Idaho. Now...there's more to see and do here at Ritter Island SP... One thing, I know this may sound confusing...Ritter Island is really a subsection unit of Thousand Springs State Park. Regardless of this info, there's another waterfall here on Ritter Island I'd like to mention, and that's...Minnie Miller Springs. To gain access to Minnie Miller Springs waterfall, you cross a footbridge to arrive at an overlook viewpoint. This footbridge isn't always open. Specific hours are...Memorial Day through Labor Day, Thursday - Monday 10am - 3pm. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. There's a bridge volunteer attendant who is there to answer questions. The pathway is easy to Minnie Miller Springs. It's only half a mile. Along the way you'll pass by old fashioned Guernsey Barn which you can walk inside if interested. It's like taking a stroll down memory lane of what life was like back in the day here at Ritter Island. Next, make sure to veer to the right beside the Snake River when leaving the barn area. You'll pass underneath some trees offering shade from the summer sun. Then you'll approach a picnic table and this the lookout point, and in my opinion, the best glance at viewing Minnie Miller Springs. Minnie Miller Springs is a cascading waterfall hung in the background like an art painting. The setting is quaint and charming and if you visit in the afternoon time, the sun will be at your back which creates scenic photo opps. Only problem is the waterfall is located far in the distance. It's not accessible like Lemmon Falls. So basically, you can grab a few pictures of the lush surroundings before returning back towards the footbridge. If you decide you're enjoying the walking path, you can complete the 1.8 mile roundtrip loop around the farm. If not, it's half a mile back to where you started. While here on Ritter Island, people had their canoes, kayaks and paddle boards enjoying the waters. Folks barbecued under trees while lounging around. It was extremely crowded on a Sunday during early August. Granted, it was 105 degrees outside. For me, I had to go swimming and cool off. I just found a little spot beside the banks of the river and hopped in. Surprisingly, Snake River waters were frigid. I couldn't believe how hot it was and you'd assume that'd translate into relaxing swimming conditions, yet that wasn't the case. I think I had a brain freeze from the chilly waters. Still, you adjust to the cold and eventually it's refreshing hanging out in the river on a lazy Sunday. Last extra notes... - It's a $7 fee for day use. You can fill out a slip with payment and drop it into a lockbox. They accept checks. - Ritter Island is located in Wendell, Idaho which is a small town. But, it's 35 miles northwest of Twin Falls, ID, a great city to explore. - I'd suggest arriving sooner than later as there's only so many parking spaces during prime summer visitation season. Overall, coming here to Ritter Island and getting to experience Lemmon Falls was breathtaking. Imo, it's the standout highlight. Minnie Miller Springs is decent and a quiet hike to arrive at. And lastly, taking time to lounge on the grass and have access to the Snake River to cool off on hot summer days is why families make frequent visits. Btw, for those waterfall enthusiasts out there, check out Box Canyon Springs next, 5.5 miles away.

We didn't swim here, it was a stop for exercise only. Good parking, park was very clean, diving…read moreboard available, hiking trails and tables to eat and clean bathrooms. No lifeguard on duty our visit. There is no extra cost, just pay the fee to enter Shoshone park $5. Tip: not somewhere I felt welcome, from the stare downs and racist conversations overheard by me. I would probably never go back unless security was available. Beautiful spot to definitely relax or have a picnic.

For a $5 fee at the entrance to the park, access to both Dierkes Lake and the Shoshone Falls is a…read moregift. Both spots are very accessible, though it can be a hassle driving back up the windy hill in the later afternoon when the sun hits eye level. The lake itself has a structured area for swimmers, and visitors can go kayaking and such in the deeper waters. It even has a diving board into the swimming area, though many kids and teens opt to go cliff jumping. I took the plunge from one of the cliffs and my adrenaline was pumping for quite awhile afterwards. Best to stick to cannonballs, though, and keep in consideration the water depth. The water is cool/cold, but not intolerable, and certainly nothing compared to larger bodies of water. We visited in early June, and I assume that the water warms up later in the summer. Would absolutely visit again if I'm ever back in Idaho.

Pretty 30 second walk from road to waterfall .zip lining in the canyon was awesome the tour guides…read morewere super chill had a great time. Lots of activities to enjoy great stop. Ate at the golf course yummy pretzel flavors lemon buffalo was fire . Lots to see and do , great pit stop

Wow!!! Perrine Coulee Falls is simply majestic. I can't rave about it enough! So cool. A natural…read morewonder that is a sight to behold! Perrine Coulee Falls is located right in the heart of town in Twin Falls, Idaho. One afternoon I was grabbing lunch at McDonalds, and next I was driving 1 mile away and witnessing this 200 foot waterfall plunge. It's that easy. There are about 6 - 7 spaces for cars to pull off Canyon Springs Road to park. If they are all filled up, you can drive lower down the road near Twin Falls Waterfront Park and leave your car there and then walk back up to the waterfall. Once here, there's a circular pathway going around and underneath the falls. So, you have multiple opportunities from different angles to admire the views no matter where you may be standing. Perrine Coulee Falls splashes down into a corner of the Snake River Canyon. It's this tucked away waterfall, but on display for everyone to see, and free of charge. Looking up at the waterfall, it's like an action packed adrenaline punch hitting you in the face. The free fall drop can be inspiring. Extra Notes... - The waterfall flows year round but is more forceful in spring and summer times with snow melting. - There's nowhere to swim. - The backdrop looking away from the waterfall is impressive. There's a beautiful golf course located right beside the falls. In fact, while you're teeing off at one of the holes, you can easily view Perrine Coulee Falls. - Down at the base of Canyon Springs Road is Twin Falls Waterfront Park where you can do rafting, kayaking or paddle boarding along the Snake River. Also, Perrine Memorial Bridge is nearby where brave souls base jump, free fall and parachute down from the top of the 486 foot bridge. It's an incredible setting for getting a firsthand glimpse into base jumping. - You only need 20 - 25 minutes here at Perrine Coulee Falls. It's such a pleasant and easy stop. - I came on by at the end of July around 3pm and there were just a few people here. It never got too busy at any single moment and there was enough spacing between myself and others to grab undisturbed pictures. But, don't quote me on when people decide to visit, lol. Overall, what else can I say? If you are a waterfall enthusiast, you will love checking out Perrine Coulee Falls. And not only that, it's the entire state of Idaho. Not many people I know of explore this under the radar state, but there are some mighty dramatic waterfalls located throughout and if you have the time, you'll appreciate what the "potato state" has to offer :)

Malad Gorge State Park is located in Hagerman, Idaho and is one of several units of the Thousand…read moreSprings State Park area. Other nearby sections include...Niagara Springs, Box Canyon Springs and Ritter Island. For visiting Malad Gorge, yes...you do have pleasant surroundings from high above. But the frequently talked about highlight for coming here is getting to see Devil's Washbowl. Devil's Washbowl is a 150 foot waterfall splashing down into the Snake River that cuts between the canyon gorge. All you have to do is walk a short pathway from the parking lot (1/4 of a mile) to an overlook vista point to catch the best glimpses of Devil's Washbowl. ***But, here was my problem...Devil's Washbowl was so far off into the distance, it's virtually impossible to get a quality photo of (if you're using your phone and not a professional camera). That was disappointing. If you simply view Devil's Washbowl with your own eyes, it can be nice. It can be dramatic. But I was expecting to be standing a lot closer to the waterfall and this distant lookout point was a letdown because I had high expectations after getting to see other colorful waterfalls around Thousand Springs. It takes 2 minutes to watch Devil's Washbowl from the observation point. If you'd like, you can continue along the 2.5 mile walking pathway from high above the gorge, but there's not much to see. Extras to mention... - When walking over to Devil's Washbowl vista point, you cross over a footbridge beside I-84. Although it is noisy outside from the passing cars on the highway, the views looking down through the gorge were picturesque. Plus, Devil's Washbowl is actually located right underneath this footbridge. So...if you're not afraid of heights and don't mind leaning over the bridge, you can get a closer view of the falls standing on top of them. But, during my research, I read it was still difficult taking pictures from atop the footbridge. I didn't attempt this because if I ever somehow dropped my phone, I'd have problems, lol. - It's $7 day use entry for visiting Malad Gorge SP. But, this $7 is good at the other units as well like Box Canyon, Ritter Island and Niagara Springs...the parks that I stopped at for the day. - Devil's Washbowl is located off to the right hand side when you enter Malad Gorge SP. There's a roughly 5 mile scenic loop road you can drive around the park. It offers different viewpoints of the gorge, but nothing will get you closer to Devil's Washbowl than the primary lookout point beside the footbridge. Off to the left hand side when entering is a large picnic pavilion with plenty of grass. In the end, Malad Gorge State Park is a quick visit. I know I've said this before in many prior reviews where I don't have the most fulfilling experiences, I'd just relay to others to maybe temper expectations when seeing Devil's Washbowl. It's not so special and I found better opportunities at nearby waterfalls...Lemmon Falls, Minnie Miller Springs and Box Canyon Springs.

With no particular itinerary on this drive, I spotted this state park at the side of the highway…read moreand took the detour. I'm so glad I did! The Devil's Washbowl and the canyon/gorge here go directly under the highway. They were created by volcanic activity and erosion. Much of the park is accessible by vehicle with a couple of short walks. Easily get to some amazing views of the 250-foot gorge as it leads the way to the Snake River. If you're on I-84, take a half-hour (minimum) to check this out. You'll be glad you did. Also, your park entry pass for the Malad Gorge is valid for a number of other same-day visits to other parks in the area. [Review 17791 overall - 61 in Idaho - 1312 of 2022.]

Food: NA/5 Service: NA/5…read moreAmbiance: 5/5 Parking: 4/5 Family friendly: 5/5 Stroller friendly: 3/5 ADA accessible: 3/5 My family and I came here strictly for the sand dunes and observatory, late on a Sunday evening around 845-9pm. (Apparently the observatory is closed on Sunday?). Entrance fee is $7 cash or check when the gate is closed. You have to be in some type of shape as ascending the 60 deg incline hill of sand takes a bit of muscle and cardio endurance to make it up. Once at the top though, it's a serene and calming experience. On the backside of the first sand dune, the Snake River runs through. Similar to an Oasis in the desert. However, as some people may know or experience, wherever there is water, comes the bugs. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the bugs (mosquitoes) attacked. Not just one or two, swarms of mosquitoes. If you're like me and have allergic itching reactions to pest bites, be warned and have full body covering along with repellent. By the time we escaped to the car my son had been bit on the head and face. Just a forewarning. Bruneau Dunes State Park seems like a cool place to be. There were 3-4 individual camping locations that's were RV friendly and vast spaces for kids to run around. Sand Dunes themselves are not WC friendly unless you invent some type of sled to push/pull the WC up the hill. Also, make sure when dusk arrives, COVER UP!

I'm always on the hunt for an adventure so when I saw this was only 30 mins from my hotel, I knew I…read morehad to make a morning out of it! The entry fee was $7 and the drive to the dunes was quiet and peaceful. I went by myself and felt safe enough exploring the area alone. The views were gorgeous! This is truly a hidden gem tucked away in the farm lands. If you're in the mountain home area, check this place out!

Highly recommend going here. It's a bit off the beaten path but well worth the drive. The…read moreformations are amazing. It's like a whole natural rock city in the middle of nowhere. We lived in Idaho for three years and thus was probably my favorite place. We aren't climbers but we walked, drove and picnicked. Perfect place for kids to expend some energy. We went two times and it was never jam packed or crowded. Beautiful place.

Eleven Yelp reviews and not a single one from an Idahoan. Until now…read more I'm not sure why this magnificent spot, along the Applegate Trail between Fort Hall and Southern Oregon, doesn't get more attention. It's certainly known by Idaho residents and by rock climbers; I guess they just aren't huge Yelp users. Oregon pioneer brothers Jesse and Lindsay Applegate, who each lost a son to drowning in the Columbia River when coming out on the Oregon Trail in 1843, set out to find a safer route. They came up with what was originally known as the Southern Route before a critic who made the first trip derisively called it the Applegate Trail, which stuck. The route from Fort Hall was also part of the California Trail. The City of Rocks was long a gathering place for the Shoshone tribe, whose members came to collect pine nuts. They also hunted rock chucks and game animals and dug root vegetables. The rocks are stunning. Walking along some of the trails gives a different view everywhere you turn. And the changing light provides a change in how the rocks look. Campsites, both for campers and for tents, are spread out. There's no electricity or running water at the sites, but potable water can be gathered at stations and vault toilets are available in several parts of the park. If you plan to travel from Boise or other locations west of City of Rocks, take Interstate 84 to the Declo exit and head south on Highway 77. We took the Burley exit and went through Oakley. The dirt road outside Oakley took nearly an hour. It was much quicker leaving through the eastern side of the park and Highway 77.

Took the tour to Pillar Falls. We were grateful that AWOL was still offering a tour in mid Sept…read more We had a fabulous time! Dalton was so knowledgeable about the area and I thrive on facts like that. Got to see a BASE jumper as we passed under Perrine Bridge. Explored the pillar rocks and pools too. Gorgeous day. Thank you AWOL.

We had an amazing time with Dalton and Braxton as our guides. They made the entire experience so…read moremuch fun! They were super friendly and made everyone feel included. They were helpful and answered all of our questions. Tyler was an amazing pontoon driver and was also a lot of fun and made the trip fun! Lucy was super helpful with the merchandise.. and manager Paul was also super nice! Everyone made our day. Shoshone Falls was absolutely beautiful... it was so much fun paddling on the Snake River up to the falls. Definitely an experience that I will remember forever. We will definitely come back and recommend AWOL to EVERYONE!!!