Day Trips from Idaho Falls
← All Idaho Falls day tripsDay Trips from Idaho Falls: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Idaho Falls, ID. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
8 waterfalls near Idaho Falls
Ousel Falls Park & Trailhead
Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730
Just 2 hrs 42 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.9 stars by 865 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Box Canyon Springs Preserve
ID 83355, USA
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.8 stars by 379 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fall Creek Falls
ID 83449, USA
Just 47 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.8 stars by 460 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Thousand Springs State Park - Malad Gorge Unit
Bliss, ID 83314
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shoshone Falls Park
Twin Falls, ID 83301
Just 2 hrs 20 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.8 stars by 11,391 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Box Canyon State Park
Wendell, ID 83355
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.7 stars by 431 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Malad Gorge - Thousand Springs State Park
Hagerman, ID 83332
Just 2 hrs 37 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.6 stars by 1,096 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Twin Falls Park
ID 83341, USA
Just 2 hrs 16 min from Idaho Falls, rated 4.6 stars by 263 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Idaho Falls
What are the best waterfalls near Idaho Falls, ID?
The best waterfalls near Idaho Falls range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Idaho Falls?
Some waterfalls near Idaho Falls have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Idaho Falls?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Idaho Falls are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Idaho Falls?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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