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!

- Only one way in and out of the park. -- Man, no wonder a…read morelong slow line of vehicles formed out the entrance that Sun afternoon. Think I waited 20-30min before finally entering the park. . $5/car. - Crowded parking. Had to seek the overflow parking, - The overflow parking in the picnic area is about a 2min walk to the overlook. + but at least the overflow parking is shaded; - The main parking closer to the vista isn't. - Limited restrooms. . Ah, the kayakers you see down there stay far from the falls cuz the turbulence can continuously flip the boat and the mist can make it hard to breathe and see. . Note: Early autumn, irrigation needs divert upstream Snake River, reducing Shoshone Falls to a trickle. Enjoy while you can. Nice they post a livefeed [ https://www.tfid.org/309/Shoshone-Falls ] to let you know beforehand today's volumetric flow. Given this con:pro ratio, Shoshone Falls is a tourist trap. Just go see Niagara Falls lol

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!

Not for me. But could be a great place for those that like walking, hiking, biking, ETCread more

If you're a nature enthusiast with a side of daredevil nostalgia, Snake River Canyon Rim Trails is…read morethe perfect blend of breathtaking views and a trip down memory lane. The trails offer a stunning panorama that's nothing short of awe-inspiring. The Snake River Canyon, with its majestic cliffs and winding waters, provides a backdrop that's almost too beautiful to be true. It's like nature's own masterpiece, and the trails allow you to soak it all in at your own pace. What makes this place truly unique is its hidden gem status. It's almost like the canyon is hiding in plain sight, waiting for you to discover its magic. Once you do, you'll wonder how it remained under the radar for so long. Now, for the icing on the cake - the Evel Knievel jump site and statue. For those of us old enough to remember when Evil Knievel was the sport-rock star of the 70s, this spot is a pilgrimage. Standing by the statue, you can almost feel the adrenaline of those iconic jumps. It's a nostalgic trip that adds a whole new dimension to the hiking experience. The ramp site is now on private property so we couldn't get close but you can still see the mound jutting towards the canyon! So, lace up those walking shoes, embrace the breathtaking views, and take a stroll down memory lane.

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.

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.

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.

This park is such a hidden gem! On the hunt for balanced rock, we drove right past the park without…read moreeven seeing it. Luckily we spotted it on the drive out. It's a quiet, gem in the bottom of a canyon with shaded (and not) picnic and camping areas along a flowing stream. It was beautiful, grassy, with bathrooms, bbq's, fire pits, swings, and ample nature surrounding you. According to Google, this area is open 24/7 and camping is free. The signs posted say max 7 days. This would be a perfect place for a picnic or relaxed afternoon to hang out with your family, Just be prepared that there is no cell phone reception. Satellite was available intermittently. If nothing else, it's worth the drive out here to soak in the beautiful views and spot a few yellow bellied marmots.

Loved it! The beauty, mystery of Balanced Rock is awe inspiring! It's a must see! Welcome to…read moreSouthern Idaho! Gods Country

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 such an amazing experience renting two tandem kayaks from AWOL. We reserved the kayaks days…read morein advance to make sure we would have some once we came. It costs $25 for 2 hours on one tandem. Thats $6 per person per hour. We took the kayaks passed the bridge and it was really cool because there were some base jumpers off the bridge which was exciting to see. It was really hot while In the water so I recommend using sunscreen on your face, arms, AND legs. My husband assumed his legs would be covered and they were not so he got really bad burns all over them. We also wore hats because it was really hot. Once you go all the way down towards rocks, you can get off the kayak and walk around this beautiful rock area. There was a little mini waterfall. It only took us 45 minutes to get to this area. We stayed until about 1:15pm. We then headed back to return the kayaks and we got there perfect timing just before 2. If you rent a kayak I highly recommend coming to sight see the rocks because it was absolutely beautiful.

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.]