Originally I planned to publish this post in time for Spring Break 2020. I didn't anticipate the COVID-19 Pandemic. Most of the recreation areas on this list are still open for visitors, but have reduced staff or hours. Call ahead or check the official website if you have questions about services available. Please practice good social distancing while you are visiting locations listed in this guide.
The area around Twin Falls, Idaho is an amazing place. There are waterfalls, canyon trails, cold springs, hot springs, lava rocks, and other amazing geologic features. Viewpoints and trails allow you to get up close to these awesome sights.
But it can be hard to get information on how to visit these locations. Visitor guides don't give a complete picture of everything available in the area, official websites give only the vaguest details, and in some cases even Google Maps gives incorrect directions.
When I planned my family's first visit to the Twin Falls area two years ago I was frustrated by the lack of information. My family still had a good visit, but we occasionally got lost or missed features. As we traveled I kept noticing things that hadn't been mentioned in the guidebooks.
Maybe it was because I felt like we hadn't seen everything we could have seen, but I felt drawn back to the area. After two subsequent visits my family decided to move to Twin Falls. Brandon found a job here, and we moved to Twin Falls in 2019. I loved that I am finally able to explore the Twin Falls area in depth.
I've decided to put together the guide that I wish I'd had during my first visit to the Twin Falls area. This is geared to someone who wants to see the unique natural features. I won't be talking much about local businesses or places to eat.
I've arbitrarily defined the Twin Falls Area as a 40 miles radius from the Twin Falls Visitor Center. Maybe later I'll put together a list of places to visit that are outside that 40 mile zone, and another list of places that are exclusively in the city of Twin Falls.
The 20+ locations in this guide are mentioned in west to east order. (As if you were travelling from Boise.) I've tried to make this route as smooth as possible, but thanks to some remote features there is a bit of back-tracking on this route. If you traveled the whole route you would drive over 150 miles. You are certainly welcome to try to follow the whole route, but I'll admit that is a bit ambitious. It might be wise to pick and choose which features you want to see, or to split the route over two days.
First let's talk about topography
One of the most frustrating things about my first trip to the Twin Falls area was that the guidebooks I'd read didn't do a good job explaining the topography. I'd made some assumptions that turned out to be incorrect.
Here are four things I'd wish I'd known before my trip.
1. The Snake River Canyon is really more of a gorge. It's not the traditional canyon between mountains. Instead its like a giant crack in the earth. If you look out over the Twin Falls area you often can't see the canyon at all.
2. The cliffs don't just drop directly into the Snake River. In many sections of the canyon the cliffs drop down to large banks that eventually slope into the river. Before I understood this I didn't understand that you could actually go down into the canyon. I thought that all the roads and trails skirted the canyon rim.
3. The location of the canyon walls changes in relation to the main roads. The canyon has steep cliffs on both sides in the areas closest to Twin Falls, and the main roads are above the canyon rim. When you are in the area around Hagerman the main roads drop down into the canyon on the south side. Highway 30 near Hagerman is nearly level with the Snake River.
4. Grades are roads that lead down into a canyon from the rim. When I read the route directions on Google Maps I didn't understand directions like, turn right onto "Justice Grade."
To help you visualize the route I've put it into Google Maps. I've split this Google Map into 2 sections. This is part one. Part two will start when we reach Twin Falls.
Remember this is arranged as if you are travelling from Boise. You certainly could attempt to do this route in the opposite order, but my directions won't make much sense that way.
Let's get started on the guide.
Our first stop is literally under Interstate 84. Take Exit 147 and then turn west on 2350 South. Turn right onto Ritchie Road and follow that until you come to the entrance to Malad Gorge State Park. Follow the signs to Devil's Washbowl.
314 S Ritchie Rd
Hagerman
Cost: $5 per car or free with your state park pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
Hagerman
Cost: $5 per car or free with your state park pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
Malad Gorge is a 255 foot deep canyon carved by the Malad River. You can walk over the gorge on a sturdy metal bridge and look down to see where the river has cut a deep chasm through solid rock. It's a very impressive sight. Other features of interest are ATV trails, overlooks into the canyon, and a nice day use area with picnic tables and a playground.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Malad Gorge.
From Malad Gorge head south on Ritchie Road for a mile and a half. At 2500 South turn right. After almost 2 miles 2500 South will take you down the Justice Grade to the Hagerman Valley. At Highway 30 turn left and follow Highway 30 south into the town of Hagerman. Your next stop will across from the High school and will be on your left.
Hagerman Fossil Beds Visitor Center
221 N State St
Hagerman
Cost: Free
Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Phone Number: (208) 933-4105
Website: https://www.nps.gov/hafo/index.htm
The Hagerman Fossil Beds themselves are located south of Hagerman. You can't actually see fossils at the fossil beds and it's not much more than a glorified viewpoint. However, the Visitor Center in town is a great place to stop. You can see fossils on display there. The building is small, but it has many interesting displays as well as friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Hagerman Fossil Beds.
From the Visitor Center continue south on Highway 30 after almost 4.5 miles you will cross the Snake River. Keep heading southeast for about mile and a half. Your next stop will be on the left. Look for the sign elevated sign for 1000 Springs Resort.
1000 Springs Resort
18734 US-30 Scenic
Hagerman
Cost: Swimming is $3 for a child age 1-5, $6 for a child age 6-17, $7 for adults, $3 for seniors.
Camping starts at $25 for tent sites.
Hours: 11:00-8:30 weekdays later on weekends
Phone Number: (208) 837-4987
Website: http://1000springsresort.com/
1000 Springs Resort is a great place to go swimming. There's a large indoor pool that ranges in depth. There are also indoor hot pools. Outside there is a large shaded grassy area for day use and overnight camping, an RV campground, two adorable cabins, river access, and charter boat tours.
Even if you aren't interested in any of those things you should plan at least a quick stop at 1000 Springs Resort so you can look at the Snake River and see the features across the river. Minnie Miller Springs, several waterfalls, and Ritter Island are located directly across the river from 1000 Springs Resort. Later in our tour we'll have a chance to visit Ritter Island and view the springs up close. But they are worth a look from over here.
Click here to read about my family's visit to 1000 Springs Resort.
From 1000 Springs turn left back onto Highway 30. Continue South on Highway 30 for 3.5 miles. At 4800 North you will have a choice to go either right or left. Go Right for Miracle Hot Springs or Left for Banbury Hot Springs.
Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs
Miracle Hot Springs
Click here to read about my family's visit to Malad Gorge.
From Malad Gorge head south on Ritchie Road for a mile and a half. At 2500 South turn right. After almost 2 miles 2500 South will take you down the Justice Grade to the Hagerman Valley. At Highway 30 turn left and follow Highway 30 south into the town of Hagerman. Your next stop will across from the High school and will be on your left.
221 N State St
Hagerman
Cost: Free
Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Phone Number: (208) 933-4105
Website: https://www.nps.gov/hafo/index.htm
The Hagerman Fossil Beds themselves are located south of Hagerman. You can't actually see fossils at the fossil beds and it's not much more than a glorified viewpoint. However, the Visitor Center in town is a great place to stop. You can see fossils on display there. The building is small, but it has many interesting displays as well as friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Hagerman Fossil Beds.
From the Visitor Center continue south on Highway 30 after almost 4.5 miles you will cross the Snake River. Keep heading southeast for about mile and a half. Your next stop will be on the left. Look for the sign elevated sign for 1000 Springs Resort.
18734 US-30 Scenic
Hagerman
Cost: Swimming is $3 for a child age 1-5, $6 for a child age 6-17, $7 for adults, $3 for seniors.
Camping starts at $25 for tent sites.
Hours: 11:00-8:30 weekdays later on weekends
Phone Number: (208) 837-4987
Website: http://1000springsresort.com/
1000 Springs Resort is a great place to go swimming. There's a large indoor pool that ranges in depth. There are also indoor hot pools. Outside there is a large shaded grassy area for day use and overnight camping, an RV campground, two adorable cabins, river access, and charter boat tours.
Even if you aren't interested in any of those things you should plan at least a quick stop at 1000 Springs Resort so you can look at the Snake River and see the features across the river. Minnie Miller Springs, several waterfalls, and Ritter Island are located directly across the river from 1000 Springs Resort. Later in our tour we'll have a chance to visit Ritter Island and view the springs up close. But they are worth a look from over here.
Click here to read about my family's visit to 1000 Springs Resort.
From 1000 Springs turn left back onto Highway 30. Continue South on Highway 30 for 3.5 miles. At 4800 North you will have a choice to go either right or left. Go Right for Miracle Hot Springs or Left for Banbury Hot Springs.
Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs
Miracle Hot Springs
19073A US-30
Buhl
Banbury Hot Springs
Banbury Hot Springs
1128 Banbury Rd
Buhl
Cost: Swimming at either location is $4 for a child, $10 for an adult, or $8 for a senior. Overnight accommodations start at $10 for a single tent site.
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday.
Phone Number: 208-543-6002
Website: https://www.miraclehotspring.com/
Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs are owned by the same company so I'll mention them at the same time. They are at different locations. Miracle Hot Springs in on the bank of Salmon Falls Creek right off of Highway 30. Banbury is on the banks of the Snake River and provides river access as well as the hot springs. Banbury is a more secluded location than Miracle. Both areas have swimming pools as well as overnight accommodations. There are slightly different amenities at each location so I encourage you to spend some time on the website if you are planning to stop at either of these locations.
If you want an extra adventure, plan to bring kayaks and put in at Banbury Hot Springs for a short trip down stream to Blue Heart Springs. This spring is absolutely stunning, but it's only accessible from the river. Kayak rentals are available from Banbury Hot Springs as well.
This next leg of your trip you will travel south for 18 miles for nearly half an hour. This detour is worth it because you'll see one of Idaho's most unique natural features.
From Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs head south on Highway 30 until you come to 4300 North. Highway 30 will make a sharp turn and head east. You will want to keep going straight on 1000 east. It will be slightly uphill. 1000 East will curve and not quite connect at first. But keep following 1000 East until you come to 3700 North (You will feel like you are completely lost - that's okay.) At 3700 North you will turn right and start dropping into a canyon. At the bottom of the small canyon you'll come to a road. If you turn left on the road you can visit Balanced Rock Park.
Balanced Rock Park
42 32’36.00″ N
114 56’58.80″ W
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours
Phone Number: (208) 734-9491 (For Twin Falls County Parks)
Website: https://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/balanced-rock-park/
Shady trees and canyon walls make this a wonderful oasis in the middle of the boring desert and farm land that surrounds the Salmon Falls Creek Canyon. There are amenities like restrooms and picnic spots with fireplace grills. There is even a small swing set. Free tent camping is available here on a first come first serve basis. Do not camp on the grass Monday through Thursday. This park is owned by Twin Falls county.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Balanced Rock Park.
If you keep going west on 3700 North (Now called Balanced Rock Road) you will exit the other side of the canyon and come to Balanced Rock after about a mile. Look for a small parking area on your right.
Balanced Rock
42°32'50.3"N
Cost: Swimming at either location is $4 for a child, $10 for an adult, or $8 for a senior. Overnight accommodations start at $10 for a single tent site.
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday.
Phone Number: 208-543-6002
Website: https://www.miraclehotspring.com/
Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs are owned by the same company so I'll mention them at the same time. They are at different locations. Miracle Hot Springs in on the bank of Salmon Falls Creek right off of Highway 30. Banbury is on the banks of the Snake River and provides river access as well as the hot springs. Banbury is a more secluded location than Miracle. Both areas have swimming pools as well as overnight accommodations. There are slightly different amenities at each location so I encourage you to spend some time on the website if you are planning to stop at either of these locations.
If you want an extra adventure, plan to bring kayaks and put in at Banbury Hot Springs for a short trip down stream to Blue Heart Springs. This spring is absolutely stunning, but it's only accessible from the river. Kayak rentals are available from Banbury Hot Springs as well.
This next leg of your trip you will travel south for 18 miles for nearly half an hour. This detour is worth it because you'll see one of Idaho's most unique natural features.
From Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs head south on Highway 30 until you come to 4300 North. Highway 30 will make a sharp turn and head east. You will want to keep going straight on 1000 east. It will be slightly uphill. 1000 East will curve and not quite connect at first. But keep following 1000 East until you come to 3700 North (You will feel like you are completely lost - that's okay.) At 3700 North you will turn right and start dropping into a canyon. At the bottom of the small canyon you'll come to a road. If you turn left on the road you can visit Balanced Rock Park.
42 32’36.00″ N
114 56’58.80″ W
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours
Phone Number: (208) 734-9491 (For Twin Falls County Parks)
Website: https://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/balanced-rock-park/
Shady trees and canyon walls make this a wonderful oasis in the middle of the boring desert and farm land that surrounds the Salmon Falls Creek Canyon. There are amenities like restrooms and picnic spots with fireplace grills. There is even a small swing set. Free tent camping is available here on a first come first serve basis. Do not camp on the grass Monday through Thursday. This park is owned by Twin Falls county.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Balanced Rock Park.
If you keep going west on 3700 North (Now called Balanced Rock Road) you will exit the other side of the canyon and come to Balanced Rock after about a mile. Look for a small parking area on your right.
42°32'50.3"N
114°57'30.7"W
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours
Phone Number: (208) 734-9491 (For Twin Falls County Parks)
Website: https://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/balanced-rock-park/
Balanced Rock is an interesting natural feature. A giant 38 foot tall rock balances on a rock pedestal that is only 3 feet wide and 17 inches tall. You can hike up a small trail to the rock. (There are a few trails that take you straight up the hill. Look for a trail that heads to the left. This trail has multiple switchbacks that make the climb somewhat easier.) Take a minute to appreciate the other oddly shaped rocks surrounding Balanced Rock. There is a small shelter with one picnic table here. There are no restrooms.
The next section of our route will take us back to the North side of the Snake River Canyon. We'll visit three sections of Thousand Springs State Park. Click here for a complete guide to Thousand Springs State Park.
When you are ready you will backtrack your route on Balanced Rock Road/3700 North all the way to 1400 East. Turn left and follow 1400 East into the town of Buhl. In Buhl turn right onto 4100 North and then left onto Main Street. Follow Main Street to Clear Lakes Boulevard. Drive north on Clear Lakes Boulevard for 5 miles. This will take you to a low bridge over the Snake River. When you reach the other side of the river and come out of the canyon you'll want to turn left onto 3500 South. THERE IS NO SIGN DESIGNATING 3500 SOUTH. Look for a road opposite the "road narrows" sign about 2 miles after you cross the river. Follow that to 1500 East. At 1500 East turn right and drive almost a mile. A little south of 3400 South you'll see a small parking lot on the left side of the road. This is the trail head for your next stop.
Box Canyon Springs
The trail head is located a little south of the intersection of 1500 East and 3400 South in Wendell.
*Do NOT follow the google maps directions to Box Canyon Spring. You'll want to search for "Box Canyon State Park Parking"
42°42'35.8"N
114°47'30.9"W
Cost: $5 per car or free with State Park Pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505 (For Thousand Springs State Park)
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
The hike to Box Canyon starts out in what looks like any old field, but in less than a mile the flat trail will take you to an overlook of a canyon carved from lava rock. From the overlook on the canyon rim you can see down to a beautiful blue pool formed from the water of the 11th largest natural spring in the nation. Keep hiking around the south side of the canyon and the trail will eventually take you down into the canyon and to a 20 foot tall waterfall.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Box Canyon Springs.
From the parking lot for Box Canyon you'll turn left and head north on 1500 East until you reach 3300 South. Turn left and follow the road as it curves around and eventually becomes 1300 East. Turn left onto the road little bit south of 3200 South. THERE IS NO SIGN FOR RITTER ISLAND if you are travelling from this direction. Instead look for the sign that says, "Thousand Springs Hydro Project." This road is Thousand Springs Grade and will take you down into the canyon. You'll pass small springs of water bursting out of the canyon wall alongside the road. When you reach the bottom of the canyon there will be a parking lot. Park there and then cross the pedestrian bridge onto Ritter Island.
Ritter Island
1205 Thousand Springs Grade
Wendell
Cost: $5 per car or free with your state park pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505 (For Thousand Springs State Park)
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
Ritter Island is surrounded by the water from the Snake River and run off water from many springs. This area has gone by several names. For many years it was known as the Thousand Springs Nature Preserve and was owned by the Nature Conservancy. Now it is owned by the state and is part of Thousand Springs State Park. The island is open primarily in the summer. The island is flat and the trails are easy to walk on. After a short walk you can see Minnie Miller Springs from the island. This is also a good place to kayak.
The pedestrian bridge is usually only open during the summer months (though I've been lucky and found it open a few times in the winter.) There are still things to see from the bank of the river. From the parking lot you can walk south and see a majestic waterfall cascading down. This waterfall alone is worth the drive out to Ritter Island.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Ritter Island.
From Ritter Island backtrack the way you came to 3500 South and 1700 East. At this intersection turn turn onto the Bob Barton Highway and head east. You'll drive on Bob Barton Highway for 4.5 miles to a curvy intersection. Do not follow the main curve of the road. Instead take a right onto the other road and then take another right. You should be heading south toward the canyon. There will be signs directing you to Niagara Springs. Follow the road for a mile and a half to the canyon edge. You'll follow the gravel road (Now called Niagara Springs Grade) down into the canyon. Travel on the road for 1.7 miles. You will come to a fish hatchery first. Almost immediately after the Fish Hatchery you will see Niagara Springs on your left.
Niagara Springs
2136 Niagara Springs Grade
Wendell
Cost: $5 per car or free with your State Park Pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505 (For Thousand Springs State Park)
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
Niagara Springs is easy to see. There is a small parking space near the springs and then you walk less than 20 feet to a viewing platform. The water in the spring is coming out of the canyon wall at 250 cubic feet per second. It is also a chilly 52 degrees.
Don't turn around and leave after viewing Niagara Springs. Continue driving down the road to a shaded day use area. You can relax by a pond formed from the spring's run off water. There are also short hiking trails that take you to the banks of the Snake River.
Niagara Springs isn't the only spring to see in this part of the canyon. Keep traveling on the Niagara Springs Grade for about another mile and a half you will come to Crystal Springs Lake. It is made from the runoff from Crystal Springs.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Niagara Springs.
The next section of our route is 20 miles and will take us into Twin Falls proper for the first time.
When you are ready to leave the springs you will backtrack out of the canyon and back to Bob Barton Highway. At the stop sign turn right onto Bob Barton Highway and travel east toward the city of Jerome. In Jerome you'll get onto Highway 84 and continue driving east. Take Exit 173 for Twin Falls and follow Highway 93 South.
You will drive over the Snake River Canyon on the Perrine Memorial Bridge. From the top this Bridge doesn't look like much - but trust me, you'll be impressed in a moment.
After you cross the bridge take your first right and then turn right again at the round about to go to the Twin Falls Visitor Center. Park at the Visitor Center.
This is where the second half of our Google Map begins.
Twin Falls Visitor Center and Viewpoints of the Perrine Memorial Bridge
2015 Nielsen Point Place
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: The building is open 8:00-5:00 the area is open 24 hours a day (but overnight parking is not allowed)
Phone Number: (208) 733-3974
Website: https://twinfallschamber.com/
The Visitor Center is a great place to use the bathroom and check out displays about Twin Falls. But the real reason to stop here is to look at the bridge. The Perrine Bridge is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in Southern Idaho. There are wide paved paths that take you to viewpoints with sturdy guardrails. The paths take you under the bridge. There is also a pedestrian path on top of the bridge. During your visit you may see someone BASE Jump from the top of the bridge into the Snake River Canyon.
If you aren't ready to get back into your car yet you can walk either east or west on the Canyon Rim Trails extending from the Visitor Center. Both directions offer great views of the canyon.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Perrine Memorial Bridge.
Now it's time to go down into the canyon again. It's a little tricky to find the roads you need so pay attention to these directions. From the Visitor Center Parking lot head back to the roundabout. You'll take your first right onto Fillmore Street. At the next stop sign you'll want to turn right onto Canyon Springs Road. It's a small road that doesn't look very important. Follow Crystal Springs Road down into the canyon.
Go slowly on your way down. It's a fairly narrow road with a tight switch back so you'll want to be on the look out for other cars. Also there is a scenic viewpoint of the Perrine Coulee waterfall at the turn on the road so you never know when someone will be walking near the road or pullover abruptly to look at the waterfall.
After you pass the first turn you'll continue driving. When you come to the next turn you will NOT follow the road. Instead look for a smaller road near the sign for Centennial Waterfront Park. Turn onto that road and it will take you to the park. You'll know you missed the turn if you end up at the Golf Course.
Centennial Waterfront Park
Canyon Springs Rd
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours
Phone Number: (208) 734-9491 (For Twin Falls County Parks)
Website: https://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/balanced-rock-park/
Balanced Rock is an interesting natural feature. A giant 38 foot tall rock balances on a rock pedestal that is only 3 feet wide and 17 inches tall. You can hike up a small trail to the rock. (There are a few trails that take you straight up the hill. Look for a trail that heads to the left. This trail has multiple switchbacks that make the climb somewhat easier.) Take a minute to appreciate the other oddly shaped rocks surrounding Balanced Rock. There is a small shelter with one picnic table here. There are no restrooms.
The next section of our route will take us back to the North side of the Snake River Canyon. We'll visit three sections of Thousand Springs State Park. Click here for a complete guide to Thousand Springs State Park.
When you are ready you will backtrack your route on Balanced Rock Road/3700 North all the way to 1400 East. Turn left and follow 1400 East into the town of Buhl. In Buhl turn right onto 4100 North and then left onto Main Street. Follow Main Street to Clear Lakes Boulevard. Drive north on Clear Lakes Boulevard for 5 miles. This will take you to a low bridge over the Snake River. When you reach the other side of the river and come out of the canyon you'll want to turn left onto 3500 South. THERE IS NO SIGN DESIGNATING 3500 SOUTH. Look for a road opposite the "road narrows" sign about 2 miles after you cross the river. Follow that to 1500 East. At 1500 East turn right and drive almost a mile. A little south of 3400 South you'll see a small parking lot on the left side of the road. This is the trail head for your next stop.
The trail head is located a little south of the intersection of 1500 East and 3400 South in Wendell.
*Do NOT follow the google maps directions to Box Canyon Spring. You'll want to search for "Box Canyon State Park Parking"
42°42'35.8"N
114°47'30.9"W
Cost: $5 per car or free with State Park Pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505 (For Thousand Springs State Park)
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
The hike to Box Canyon starts out in what looks like any old field, but in less than a mile the flat trail will take you to an overlook of a canyon carved from lava rock. From the overlook on the canyon rim you can see down to a beautiful blue pool formed from the water of the 11th largest natural spring in the nation. Keep hiking around the south side of the canyon and the trail will eventually take you down into the canyon and to a 20 foot tall waterfall.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Box Canyon Springs.
From the parking lot for Box Canyon you'll turn left and head north on 1500 East until you reach 3300 South. Turn left and follow the road as it curves around and eventually becomes 1300 East. Turn left onto the road little bit south of 3200 South. THERE IS NO SIGN FOR RITTER ISLAND if you are travelling from this direction. Instead look for the sign that says, "Thousand Springs Hydro Project." This road is Thousand Springs Grade and will take you down into the canyon. You'll pass small springs of water bursting out of the canyon wall alongside the road. When you reach the bottom of the canyon there will be a parking lot. Park there and then cross the pedestrian bridge onto Ritter Island.
1205 Thousand Springs Grade
Wendell
Cost: $5 per car or free with your state park pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505 (For Thousand Springs State Park)
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
Ritter Island is surrounded by the water from the Snake River and run off water from many springs. This area has gone by several names. For many years it was known as the Thousand Springs Nature Preserve and was owned by the Nature Conservancy. Now it is owned by the state and is part of Thousand Springs State Park. The island is open primarily in the summer. The island is flat and the trails are easy to walk on. After a short walk you can see Minnie Miller Springs from the island. This is also a good place to kayak.
The pedestrian bridge is usually only open during the summer months (though I've been lucky and found it open a few times in the winter.) There are still things to see from the bank of the river. From the parking lot you can walk south and see a majestic waterfall cascading down. This waterfall alone is worth the drive out to Ritter Island.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Ritter Island.
From Ritter Island backtrack the way you came to 3500 South and 1700 East. At this intersection turn turn onto the Bob Barton Highway and head east. You'll drive on Bob Barton Highway for 4.5 miles to a curvy intersection. Do not follow the main curve of the road. Instead take a right onto the other road and then take another right. You should be heading south toward the canyon. There will be signs directing you to Niagara Springs. Follow the road for a mile and a half to the canyon edge. You'll follow the gravel road (Now called Niagara Springs Grade) down into the canyon. Travel on the road for 1.7 miles. You will come to a fish hatchery first. Almost immediately after the Fish Hatchery you will see Niagara Springs on your left.
2136 Niagara Springs Grade
Wendell
Cost: $5 per car or free with your State Park Pass
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 837-4505 (For Thousand Springs State Park)
Website: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-springs
Niagara Springs is easy to see. There is a small parking space near the springs and then you walk less than 20 feet to a viewing platform. The water in the spring is coming out of the canyon wall at 250 cubic feet per second. It is also a chilly 52 degrees.
Don't turn around and leave after viewing Niagara Springs. Continue driving down the road to a shaded day use area. You can relax by a pond formed from the spring's run off water. There are also short hiking trails that take you to the banks of the Snake River.
Niagara Springs isn't the only spring to see in this part of the canyon. Keep traveling on the Niagara Springs Grade for about another mile and a half you will come to Crystal Springs Lake. It is made from the runoff from Crystal Springs.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Niagara Springs.
The next section of our route is 20 miles and will take us into Twin Falls proper for the first time.
When you are ready to leave the springs you will backtrack out of the canyon and back to Bob Barton Highway. At the stop sign turn right onto Bob Barton Highway and travel east toward the city of Jerome. In Jerome you'll get onto Highway 84 and continue driving east. Take Exit 173 for Twin Falls and follow Highway 93 South.
You will drive over the Snake River Canyon on the Perrine Memorial Bridge. From the top this Bridge doesn't look like much - but trust me, you'll be impressed in a moment.
After you cross the bridge take your first right and then turn right again at the round about to go to the Twin Falls Visitor Center. Park at the Visitor Center.
This is where the second half of our Google Map begins.
Twin Falls Visitor Center and Viewpoints of the Perrine Memorial Bridge
2015 Nielsen Point Place
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: The building is open 8:00-5:00 the area is open 24 hours a day (but overnight parking is not allowed)
Phone Number: (208) 733-3974
Website: https://twinfallschamber.com/
The Visitor Center is a great place to use the bathroom and check out displays about Twin Falls. But the real reason to stop here is to look at the bridge. The Perrine Bridge is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in Southern Idaho. There are wide paved paths that take you to viewpoints with sturdy guardrails. The paths take you under the bridge. There is also a pedestrian path on top of the bridge. During your visit you may see someone BASE Jump from the top of the bridge into the Snake River Canyon.
If you aren't ready to get back into your car yet you can walk either east or west on the Canyon Rim Trails extending from the Visitor Center. Both directions offer great views of the canyon.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Perrine Memorial Bridge.
Now it's time to go down into the canyon again. It's a little tricky to find the roads you need so pay attention to these directions. From the Visitor Center Parking lot head back to the roundabout. You'll take your first right onto Fillmore Street. At the next stop sign you'll want to turn right onto Canyon Springs Road. It's a small road that doesn't look very important. Follow Crystal Springs Road down into the canyon.
Go slowly on your way down. It's a fairly narrow road with a tight switch back so you'll want to be on the look out for other cars. Also there is a scenic viewpoint of the Perrine Coulee waterfall at the turn on the road so you never know when someone will be walking near the road or pullover abruptly to look at the waterfall.
After you pass the first turn you'll continue driving. When you come to the next turn you will NOT follow the road. Instead look for a smaller road near the sign for Centennial Waterfront Park. Turn onto that road and it will take you to the park. You'll know you missed the turn if you end up at the Golf Course.
Canyon Springs Rd
Twin Falls
Cost: No cost to enter park. There is a cost to rent water equipment.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 734-9491 (For Twin Falls County Parks)
Website: http://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/centennial-waterfront-park/
This is the go to place if you want get an up-close view of the Snake River as well as a great view of the bridge. There are quite a few things to do at the park. There are small fishing piers, boat launch points, and a good sized playground. You can hike on a few trails including one to the top of a large rock outcropping and another trail to the base of the Perrine Coulee Waterfall. There is a zip-line operated by AWOL Adventure Sports. You can also rent a Kayak or Paddle Board and take it out on the slow moving water of the Snake River. If you paddle upstream you can see Pillar Falls or even go as far as Shoshone Falls.
Our next stop is 3 miles down in this same section of the canyon. Drive your car back to Canyon Springs Road. Don't go back up the switchbacks, but instead continue driving down into the canyon. This will take you past the golf course. Keep driving. You'll come to a sewer treatment plant and the road becomes a dirt road. There is a sign that says this is a dead end. Don't worry, keep going. After a little more than a mile and a half you'll come to a parking lot. From there you can walk about a mile on a dirt road to the waterfall.
Auger Falls Heritage Park
Canyon Springs Road
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 736-2265
Website: https://www.tfid.org/facilities/facility/details/Auger-Falls-Heritage-Park-8
There's more to do at Auger Falls than just see a waterfall. There are bike trails, hiking trails, fishing access points, as well as the waterfall. This waterfall is more of a cascade than a drop, but it is still beautiful. Its about a mile walk from the parking lot to the waterfall.
We are going to leave this section of the canyon, but we will spend the majority of the rest of our trip looking at other parts of the canyon. Drive back out of the canyon the way you came in. As you round the switchbacks on the Canyon Road Grade you will get a good view of the Perrine Coulee Waterfall. Don't worry about stopping to see it here. Our next stop will be a safer viewpoint of this waterfall.
When you are out of the canyon turn right onto Fillmore Street. Follow Fillmore as it curves around behind businesses like Costco. Turn right onto Pole Line Road/4100 North and drive a few blocks. Then turn right onto Canyon Crest Drive. Follow that north until you come to the parking lot for Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center. Occasionally the parking lot will be full, but many times you can park here with no problems. Park and walk a few steps north to the Canyon Rim Trail. The waterfall viewpoint is a little ways east on this trail.
Perrine Coulee Waterfall View Point
West Canyon Rim Trail
Near 330 Canyon Crest Drive
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
This waterfall shoots over the canyon rim from Twin Falls into the Snake River Canyon. This viewpoint gives you a great look at the waterfall without worrying about cars zooming nearby. If you want, you can take some time to walk along the canyon rim trail for views of the Snake River Canyon.
Return the way you came to Pole Line Road. Make a left onto Pole Line and drive east 1.7 miles. The road will begin to turn and become East Land Drive. As the road curves, turn left onto a smaller road that is the continuation of Pole Line. There is a small paved road that leads to a paved parking lot. This is the trail head for the east section of the Canyon Rim Trail.
East Canyon Rim Trail
Trail head is at the intersection of Pole Line and Eastland
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
This section of the Canyon Rim Trail doesn't actually skirt the canyon rim until farther down the trail. But it does eventually make it there. There are also beautiful views of the Twin Falls LDS Temple. This section of the trail will take you by the Evel Knievel Jump Site. Eventually the trail goes to Shoshone Falls.
This parking lot can also be used to reach Pillar Falls. Park in the same parking lot, but don't walk down the wide paved trail. Instead you will walk east on the residential part of Pole Line Road. After about 0.3 of a mile you'll reach a little pull out with a small trail leading down into the canyon. This trail is 0.6 of a mile and takes you down switchbacks into the canyon to Pillar Falls. (If you want to see Pillar Falls from the canyon rim the best place to do that is from the section of the Canyon Rim Trail east of Sportsmen's Warehouse at 1940 Bridgeview Blvd.)
Our next stop will be Shoshone Falls. Leave the parking area and make a left onto Eastland Drive. Head south on Eastland Drive to Falls Avenue and make another left onto Falls Avenue. Drive east on Falls Avenue for 2 miles. At 3300 East/Champlin Road turn left. You'll drive north on this road for about a mile and a half. When you reach the canyon edge the road will curve and begin to switch back into the canyon. You'll stop and pay an entry fee before you are too far into the canyon. There will be a fork in the road. Take the left fork. Follow the road down until you reach the parking lot.
Shoshone Falls
4155 Shoshone Falls Grade Road
Cost: No cost to enter park. There is a cost to rent water equipment.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 734-9491 (For Twin Falls County Parks)
Website: http://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/centennial-waterfront-park/
This is the go to place if you want get an up-close view of the Snake River as well as a great view of the bridge. There are quite a few things to do at the park. There are small fishing piers, boat launch points, and a good sized playground. You can hike on a few trails including one to the top of a large rock outcropping and another trail to the base of the Perrine Coulee Waterfall. There is a zip-line operated by AWOL Adventure Sports. You can also rent a Kayak or Paddle Board and take it out on the slow moving water of the Snake River. If you paddle upstream you can see Pillar Falls or even go as far as Shoshone Falls.
Our next stop is 3 miles down in this same section of the canyon. Drive your car back to Canyon Springs Road. Don't go back up the switchbacks, but instead continue driving down into the canyon. This will take you past the golf course. Keep driving. You'll come to a sewer treatment plant and the road becomes a dirt road. There is a sign that says this is a dead end. Don't worry, keep going. After a little more than a mile and a half you'll come to a parking lot. From there you can walk about a mile on a dirt road to the waterfall.
Canyon Springs Road
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 736-2265
Website: https://www.tfid.org/facilities/facility/details/Auger-Falls-Heritage-Park-8
There's more to do at Auger Falls than just see a waterfall. There are bike trails, hiking trails, fishing access points, as well as the waterfall. This waterfall is more of a cascade than a drop, but it is still beautiful. Its about a mile walk from the parking lot to the waterfall.
We are going to leave this section of the canyon, but we will spend the majority of the rest of our trip looking at other parts of the canyon. Drive back out of the canyon the way you came in. As you round the switchbacks on the Canyon Road Grade you will get a good view of the Perrine Coulee Waterfall. Don't worry about stopping to see it here. Our next stop will be a safer viewpoint of this waterfall.
When you are out of the canyon turn right onto Fillmore Street. Follow Fillmore as it curves around behind businesses like Costco. Turn right onto Pole Line Road/4100 North and drive a few blocks. Then turn right onto Canyon Crest Drive. Follow that north until you come to the parking lot for Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center. Occasionally the parking lot will be full, but many times you can park here with no problems. Park and walk a few steps north to the Canyon Rim Trail. The waterfall viewpoint is a little ways east on this trail.
West Canyon Rim Trail
Near 330 Canyon Crest Drive
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
This waterfall shoots over the canyon rim from Twin Falls into the Snake River Canyon. This viewpoint gives you a great look at the waterfall without worrying about cars zooming nearby. If you want, you can take some time to walk along the canyon rim trail for views of the Snake River Canyon.
Return the way you came to Pole Line Road. Make a left onto Pole Line and drive east 1.7 miles. The road will begin to turn and become East Land Drive. As the road curves, turn left onto a smaller road that is the continuation of Pole Line. There is a small paved road that leads to a paved parking lot. This is the trail head for the east section of the Canyon Rim Trail.
Trail head is at the intersection of Pole Line and Eastland
Twin Falls
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
This section of the Canyon Rim Trail doesn't actually skirt the canyon rim until farther down the trail. But it does eventually make it there. There are also beautiful views of the Twin Falls LDS Temple. This section of the trail will take you by the Evel Knievel Jump Site. Eventually the trail goes to Shoshone Falls.
This parking lot can also be used to reach Pillar Falls. Park in the same parking lot, but don't walk down the wide paved trail. Instead you will walk east on the residential part of Pole Line Road. After about 0.3 of a mile you'll reach a little pull out with a small trail leading down into the canyon. This trail is 0.6 of a mile and takes you down switchbacks into the canyon to Pillar Falls. (If you want to see Pillar Falls from the canyon rim the best place to do that is from the section of the Canyon Rim Trail east of Sportsmen's Warehouse at 1940 Bridgeview Blvd.)
Our next stop will be Shoshone Falls. Leave the parking area and make a left onto Eastland Drive. Head south on Eastland Drive to Falls Avenue and make another left onto Falls Avenue. Drive east on Falls Avenue for 2 miles. At 3300 East/Champlin Road turn left. You'll drive north on this road for about a mile and a half. When you reach the canyon edge the road will curve and begin to switch back into the canyon. You'll stop and pay an entry fee before you are too far into the canyon. There will be a fork in the road. Take the left fork. Follow the road down until you reach the parking lot.
4155 Shoshone Falls Grade Road
Twin FallsCost: $5 per car from March 1st through September 30th. (The fee also gives you access to Dierkes Lake.)
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 736-2265
Website: https://www.tfid.org/309/Shoshone-Falls
Shoshone Falls is the pride and joy of Twin Falls. If you are going to be in the Twin Falls area you simply MUST visit the waterfall. This waterfall is taller than Niagara Falls however it's flow is determined by dams upriver so depending on the time of year and the snow melt conditions the flow may be a trickle or a torrent. There is a fairly large parking lot and many viewpoints to gaze at the falls. In addition to the falls there is a beautiful park with lush grass and shade trees.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Shoshone Falls.
Our next stop isn't very far at all. From the Shoshone Falls Parking lot drive back up the canyon grade about 0.5 of a mile. Make a left onto Dierkes Road. Follow this about another half mile to the parking lot for Dierkes Lake.
Dierkes Lake/Hidden Lakes
4155 Shoshone Falls Grade Road
Twin FallsCost: $5 per car from March 1st through September 30th. (The fee also gives you access to Shoshone Falls.)
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 736-2265
Website: https://www.tfid.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/13
Dierkes Lake is small lake situated in the canyon a little south of the Snake River. This is a popular place for swimming and there is a swim beach with life guards on duty during summer months. You can also bring canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards (motor boats are not allowed). If you are in the mood for a hike there is a trail that leads to the Hidden Lakes. These lakes are succession of small lakes formed on the banks of the canyon. This is also a popular area for Rock Climbing.
We are going to go upriver to yet another waterfall. Back track the way you came out of the canyon. Head south on Champlin Road/3300 East. When you come to Falls Ave/4000 North turn left and travel east on Falls for 2 miles until you reach 3500 East. Turn left onto 3500 East. Head north for 0.5 miles until you reach 4050 North. Turn Right. Follow 4050 North as it curves and becomes Twin Falls Grade. You'll enter an open gate and begin to head down switchbacks into the canyon. You'll pass a few small buildings and then come to a parking lot.
Twin Falls Park/Waterfall
3628-3604 Twin Falls Grade
Kimberly
Cost: Free
Hours: 8:00 am to Dark
Phone Number: 1-844-472-7275
Website: https://www.idahopower.com/community-recreation/recreation/parks-and-campgrounds/twin-falls-park/
The city of Twin Falls gets its name from a waterfall that split around a giant outcropping of lava rock in the Snake River. Unfortunately, one side of the falls has been blocked off by a dam. The remaining waterfall is still impressive and can be viewed from this park maintained by Idaho Power. There are viewpoints, picnic tables and fire grills as well as boating and fishing access points. Make sure you check out the multitude of mini waterfalls cascading down the canyon wall on the south side of the park. Also there is a non-motorized trail that you can walk down to a tunnel with a cool view of the waterfall.
That is our last stop along the Snake River. Our next few stops are a ways away from the Snake River and Twin Falls, but I'm including them in this guide because they are places I'd wish I'd known about before my first trip to Twin Falls.
Backtrack the way you came out of the canyon and to 3500 East. Follow 3500 East for 3 miles this will take you into Kimberly, Idaho. Continue to follow the road as it becomes Highway 30 and curves through Kimberly. Stay on Highway 30 for 11.5 miles. You will pass through the tiny town of Hansen. At 4475 East you will turn right and head south. The road will curve and you'll turn left off of the road when you see a sign for Murtaugh Lake.
Murtaugh Lake Twin Falls County Water Front Park
42°27’26.1″N
114°10’26.7″W
Cost: Day use is free. Camping is $5 per night.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: 208-539-1656 (Camp Host)
Website: https://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/murtaugh-lake-park/
Murtaugh Lake is south of the town of Murtaugh. Twin Falls County owned and operates a campground and day use area on the west side of the lake. Camping here is only $5 per night for tents, but it's first come first serve so plan accordingly. You can also swim, fish, and boat here.
Our our last stop is completely different than anything else on this list.
From Murtaugh Lake head west to 3800 East. Follow 3800 East south. You'll see the hills in the distance. After several miles you'll be driving into the hills. Watch as the scenery changes from sage brush to pine trees as you climb in altitude.
South Hills (Sawtooth National Forest - Cassia Division)
South of Hansen
Cost: Camping starts at $8.00 for first come first serve sites.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk unless staying overnight
Phone Number: 208-678-0439
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sawtooth/null/recarea/?recid=5770&actid=50
I could probably write a whole separate guide just for the South Hills. There are many things to do here. This area has several campsites that are only a few dollars a night. There are also hiking trails. In the winter the Magic Mountain Ski Resort is a popular area for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. If you've enjoyed seeing waterfalls in other areas of this guide make sure you check take a minute to do the short hike to Ross Falls.
I hope this guide helps you explore the area around Twin Falls, Idaho. I'd love to hear about your experience or to hear about a place you like visiting in the Twin Falls area.
Did you enjoy this guide? Check out my other guides for more travel ideas.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 736-2265
Website: https://www.tfid.org/309/Shoshone-Falls
Shoshone Falls is the pride and joy of Twin Falls. If you are going to be in the Twin Falls area you simply MUST visit the waterfall. This waterfall is taller than Niagara Falls however it's flow is determined by dams upriver so depending on the time of year and the snow melt conditions the flow may be a trickle or a torrent. There is a fairly large parking lot and many viewpoints to gaze at the falls. In addition to the falls there is a beautiful park with lush grass and shade trees.
Click here to read about my family's visit to Shoshone Falls.
Our next stop isn't very far at all. From the Shoshone Falls Parking lot drive back up the canyon grade about 0.5 of a mile. Make a left onto Dierkes Road. Follow this about another half mile to the parking lot for Dierkes Lake.
4155 Shoshone Falls Grade Road
Twin FallsCost: $5 per car from March 1st through September 30th. (The fee also gives you access to Shoshone Falls.)
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: (208) 736-2265
Website: https://www.tfid.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/13
Dierkes Lake is small lake situated in the canyon a little south of the Snake River. This is a popular place for swimming and there is a swim beach with life guards on duty during summer months. You can also bring canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards (motor boats are not allowed). If you are in the mood for a hike there is a trail that leads to the Hidden Lakes. These lakes are succession of small lakes formed on the banks of the canyon. This is also a popular area for Rock Climbing.
We are going to go upriver to yet another waterfall. Back track the way you came out of the canyon. Head south on Champlin Road/3300 East. When you come to Falls Ave/4000 North turn left and travel east on Falls for 2 miles until you reach 3500 East. Turn left onto 3500 East. Head north for 0.5 miles until you reach 4050 North. Turn Right. Follow 4050 North as it curves and becomes Twin Falls Grade. You'll enter an open gate and begin to head down switchbacks into the canyon. You'll pass a few small buildings and then come to a parking lot.
3628-3604 Twin Falls Grade
Kimberly
Cost: Free
Hours: 8:00 am to Dark
Phone Number: 1-844-472-7275
Website: https://www.idahopower.com/community-recreation/recreation/parks-and-campgrounds/twin-falls-park/
The city of Twin Falls gets its name from a waterfall that split around a giant outcropping of lava rock in the Snake River. Unfortunately, one side of the falls has been blocked off by a dam. The remaining waterfall is still impressive and can be viewed from this park maintained by Idaho Power. There are viewpoints, picnic tables and fire grills as well as boating and fishing access points. Make sure you check out the multitude of mini waterfalls cascading down the canyon wall on the south side of the park. Also there is a non-motorized trail that you can walk down to a tunnel with a cool view of the waterfall.
That is our last stop along the Snake River. Our next few stops are a ways away from the Snake River and Twin Falls, but I'm including them in this guide because they are places I'd wish I'd known about before my first trip to Twin Falls.
Backtrack the way you came out of the canyon and to 3500 East. Follow 3500 East for 3 miles this will take you into Kimberly, Idaho. Continue to follow the road as it becomes Highway 30 and curves through Kimberly. Stay on Highway 30 for 11.5 miles. You will pass through the tiny town of Hansen. At 4475 East you will turn right and head south. The road will curve and you'll turn left off of the road when you see a sign for Murtaugh Lake.
42°27’26.1″N
114°10’26.7″W
Cost: Day use is free. Camping is $5 per night.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Phone Number: 208-539-1656 (Camp Host)
Website: https://twinfallscounty.org/parks/parks/murtaugh-lake-park/
Murtaugh Lake is south of the town of Murtaugh. Twin Falls County owned and operates a campground and day use area on the west side of the lake. Camping here is only $5 per night for tents, but it's first come first serve so plan accordingly. You can also swim, fish, and boat here.
Our our last stop is completely different than anything else on this list.
From Murtaugh Lake head west to 3800 East. Follow 3800 East south. You'll see the hills in the distance. After several miles you'll be driving into the hills. Watch as the scenery changes from sage brush to pine trees as you climb in altitude.
South of Hansen
Cost: Camping starts at $8.00 for first come first serve sites.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk unless staying overnight
Phone Number: 208-678-0439
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sawtooth/null/recarea/?recid=5770&actid=50
I could probably write a whole separate guide just for the South Hills. There are many things to do here. This area has several campsites that are only a few dollars a night. There are also hiking trails. In the winter the Magic Mountain Ski Resort is a popular area for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. If you've enjoyed seeing waterfalls in other areas of this guide make sure you check take a minute to do the short hike to Ross Falls.
* * *
I hope this guide helps you explore the area around Twin Falls, Idaho. I'd love to hear about your experience or to hear about a place you like visiting in the Twin Falls area.
Did you enjoy this guide? Check out my other guides for more travel ideas.
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