Hike Jump Creek Falls in Idaho

If you are brand new to hiking or perhaps have been trapped indoors all winter, Jump Creek Falls is a great hike to start the hiking season. That being said be prepared for hordes of children, dad jeans, and cigarette butts.  But if you’re a little more adventurous you can escape the crowds and still gain a good view of the falls.

Jump Creek Recreation Area

There’s more to Jump Creek than just the waterfall, however, this is the main reason that people come to this area. The trailhead is easy to get to and can be accessed with just about any vehicle. A helpful hint, turn off your GPS once you see the sign for Jump Creek Recreation Area. If you rely only on your phone, it’s possible that the GPS will take you down a private road to an individual’s property who isn’t too fond of visitors. This can get confusing because you will pass through a gate that says “No Trespassing”. This is the correct road, its the turn after the one-lane bridge that you do not want to take. Just keep following the brown Jump Creek Signs.

Now you may wonder what has that landowner so grumpy. Well, he has a pretty good reason. The hike to the falls is incredibly easy so it attracts a lot of people, especially on a nice, sunny day. But these visitors aren’t your typical outdoorsy type aka you find a lot of people hiking in jeans. Compare the crowd to what you would find at Disneyland. Slow-moving lines, screaming children, and general lack of concern for others.

Jump Creek used to be a well-kept secret but that is no longer the case. As its popularity grows, be respectful of nature and other hikers and please don’t litter.

Jump Creek Falls

From the parking area, head down the paved road to the beginning of the trail located near the outhouse. The trail is very clear and follows through the bottom of the thin canyon. After a minute or two of walking, you will have to progress through a small stream. There are stepping stones which were recently added to make the crossing easier or you can be like our graceful dog and bypass the rock hopping and just splash your way across.

The trail winds along the stream, eventually leading to Jump Creek Falls at 0.3 miles. Its silky smooth cascade is at its best right at the beginning of Spring. Once at the waterfall, there are a few viewing options. You can make your way through the large rock formation to your left and squeeze through the opening to gain access to a small beach. Or you can ascend the rock to get an elevated look at the falls. Be careful with the climb up the rock, it is steep and the gravel is loose.

Alternate View of Jump Creek Falls

If you want to see the falls but avoid the crowds, you will want to take a different route, albeit a little riskier.  This alternate path isn’t dangerous but it is easier to slip and fall. Instead of going down the paved driveway, start from the upper parking lot and go upwards towards some steps that will take you to a viewpoint. You can continue past the viewpoint for an even better view but the trail is not maintained so do so at your own risk.

Final Thoughts

Although Jump Creek Falls can be crowded at times, it is still a trail that is worth doing. The trailhead is easy to find and the trail itself is even easier. If being around people bothers you, there are some alternate options to ease your anxiety and still see the falls.

Trail Tips

• Bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet
• To avoid crowds go early in the morning
• If you are bringing your dog they should be leashed at all times.

For more waterfalls in this area check out our guide to “4 Hidden Waterfalls Near Boise, Idaho”

Chad Albright

Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.