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.]

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

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.

Box Canyon is a 20 foot waterfall located in one of the Thousand Springs State Park units near…read moreWendell, Idaho. It's $7 entrance fee which is asked to be paid when you enter. Fill out a slip with payment and drop it into the safe box beside the gate. Then it's one mile drive to the parking area. Box Canyon Springs is not hard to reach. It's a half mile descent 400 feet into the valley floor below. As you keep going, the falls will be on the right hand side. They can't be missed. Then you can turn around and head back towards the canyon summit. But, if you have the time and want to explore more, Box Canyon Springs is a 3 mile loop. This will give you better opportunities to walk among nature alongside the Snake River. I must confess...the hike was better than seeing the actual waterfall, imo. Starting out beside the parking lot, take in the views from high above the canyon looking down as the Snake River veers its way through the valley floor. It's worthy of a photo from the overlook. You'll notice a small staircase with a few steps to climb over the barbed wire fencing. It adds a unique element to the journey. Then walk a short distance more until reaching a sign saying..."Caution: Unimproved Trail, Use at Your Own Risk". Don't be deterred by this sign. It's not dangerous whatsoever. It's here you'll discover the pathway leading down to the bottom. It's just a few switchbacks and is safe for everyone. Coming upon Box Canyon Springs...it's a decent waterfall. But with it being only 20 feet, it doesn't pack a punch of excitement or have that "wow factor" element I was anticipating. You may think the first area to see Box Canyon Springs is the best it'll get. The initial look at the falls is a side angle glance. But, if you continue just a little further on the trail, you'll discover a much more fluid backdrop of the falls splashing down the Snake River. There'll be a specific rock to stand upon which allows you to take in the scenery of Box Canyon Springs in its entirety. Going back to the actual hiking trail...it's easy - moderately challenging. What I really liked about hiking it was...for early August, the temperatures in Idaho were reaching 100+ degrees, but being next to the river offered a breeze and fresh air which cooled things down considerably. And when I started hiking, it was still morning time so being in nature without suffering from the heat was a relief, lol. Although I just did the out and back hike, according to visitsouthidaho.com, the path wraps around an aqua blue pool which you can go swimming in. Although the waters are mighty cold, they can be refreshing. Lastly, just a note on what I was doing. This whole area of Thousand Springs, Idaho is waterfall accessible. I visited 5 waterfalls all in one day. Starting out in Twin Falls, ID, they were...Niagara Springs, here at Box Canyon Springs, Lemmon Falls and Minnie Miller Springs (located together on Ritter Island) and finally...Devils Washbowl at Malad Gorge State Park. Out of these 5 waterfalls, Lemmon Falls was the clear winner from my pov. In the end, Box Canyon Springs is a quiet setting to bask in the heart of the great outdoors. I was just one of a handful of visitors out exploring this under the radar part of Southern Idaho that's surrounded by total farmland. Although the 20 foot waterfall wasn't magical looking, I still enjoyed making the trek down to the canyon floor and taking time to explore around.

Beautiful hike and amazing water to swim in! Not to many people either. The water is really cold…read morebut is worth it on a hot day and also beware is your brings pets the ground is really hot!

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!

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!!!

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 :)

Wow, easy beautiful hike…read more A great friend moved to Twin Falls recently and I had to visit. On a Friday afternoon she recommended this fantastic hike. We parked at a paved small lot off Pole Line and Eastland Drive N. The trail head is well marked. The approximately 3 mile path from here to the Shoshone Falls Park is 12 feet wide and paved. Hikers, joggers, bicyclists and dogs on leash are all welcomed. From the parking lot the elevation doesn't change much for the first 2 miles. The last mile declines into the Shoshone Falls Park. So remember you'll have to hike uphill a while to return to your car. The trail winds through a housing development and a few pastures. Edging the south rim of the Snake River about 500 feet down. Step off the trail and enjoy the occasional bench to take in the magnificent rock colors and formations. Slowly the falls will start to appear and you'll hear the low rumble of the water crashing to the pool below. There a couple of observation platforms just off trail. They are easy to find and get to. At the end of the trail we descended into the park. Here we spent time reading the history kiosks and getting close up shots of the falls. We took our time and savored all the sites for almost three hours. Also along the trail we walked past the Evel Kinevel launch site from 1974. That brought back memories. The views will vary on the time of year and the water flow. We enjoyed a partly cloudy day with some gusty winds. It was still fabulous. I will do this trail every time I visit. No restrooms along the trail. There are some at the falls in the park, along with a small refreshment stand.

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

If you find yourself in Utah, specifically Hagerman, as you venture on scenic route 30, you must…read morebook a rafting adventure with @idahoguideservice! The family who own and run this outfitting service were the friendliest people and Daniel was so entertaining as he shared his knowledge of the Snake River and all things Idaho!! We could not be more fulfilled!! This was an epic adventure that my family will cherish and remember for many years to come. Thank you, Shelley, Olin, and Daniel.

We were in town and that Snake River looked great and wanted to raft it. Found these guys and…read morecould not be happier. What a great team and the ride was awesome. Left today other ride would have done another run.

Fleece the campers???…read more I went through the procedure to reserve one of the smaller sites for our 21' trailer. The price of $40 was prominently displayed. OK, a bit high for a one-night stay in a state park with no sewer or water connection. But, I'll pay for the convenience. Big surprise upon checking out. The total cost was shown to be $58.71, nearly 50% higher than the $40 advertised price. Here is what the additional charges were for: $7 Motor Vehicle Fee. My vehicle is registered in AZ. How is this justified? And since everyone get there with a vehicle of some sort, why is this not included in the displayed price? $10 transaction fee. I did all the work that the person who used to take the reservation over the phone would have done. The ID State Parks have replaced that service with a computer program. And apparently I have to pay for their computer system as well. Go figure. 3% Service fee. Who knows how they justify this? It is fortunate that the West has an abundance of Federal lands on which one can camp for a small fraction of the cost of this state park.

We happened on this nice park and visitors center while driving across country in our RV. It…read moreincludes cabins and RV sites, but we were stopping to make a picnic lunch. We enjoyed the visitors center a lot, and had a delightful lunch near the Snake River. History, shade, friendly people, and serenity - what more could we ask for?