A wise industrial engineer once said, “Work smarter, not harder.” Idaho is littered with beautiful waterfalls. Some require strenuous hikes, but others are simply viewed by just getting out of your car. Forget the sweat and check out these Idaho waterfalls that do not require any hiking.
Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls is likely Idaho’s most well-known waterfalls. It’s also one of the best Idaho Waterfalls with no hiking needed. At 212 feet tall and 900 feet wide it has earned the nickname “The Niagra of the West” (Even though it’s taller than Niagara Falls). Shoshone Falls has become a must-see Idaho attraction since pioneers ventured over on the Oregon Trail. Lucky for you, your visit to Shoshone Falls will not be as tricky as surviving a cross country trek. Simply drive to Shoshone Falls Park and pay $5.00 to park in the lot next to the falls.
Perrine Coulee Falls
While visiting Shoshone Falls near Twin Falls, ID, you may want to check out Perrine Coulee Falls. At about 200 feet high, the main draw to this waterfall is the ability to walk behind it. Notice I said “walk” and not “hike.” There is a hike that leads underneath the falls, or you can park next to it and walk just a few hundred feet. Prepare to get wet!
If you don’t have a desire to be misted by this towering waterfall, there is a viewing platform above the falls that you can access from a walking path in the nearby neighborhood that sits on the Snake River Canyon cliffside.
If you do feel like hiking the trail, you can find more information here.
Mesa Falls
Coming off the Snake River in Eastern Idaho is Henry’s Fork, one of Western Wolds most distinguished fly fishing rivers. Henry’s Fork isn’t just for slinging flies though. It is also the water source for Mesa Falls. This ten story waterfall is easily viewed from the boardwalk path starting next to the Mesa Falls Visitor Center. Click here for tips on visiting Mesa Falls.
Devils Punch Bowl
If you’ve driven from Boise to Twin Falls, you unknowingly have driven over The Devils Punch Bowl. Under Interstate 84 in the Malad Gorge State Park, the Malad River plunges off the crags into a deep pool below. For the best view of the falls, park and walk over the footbridge, which sets you smack dab over the middle of the canyon.
If you want to work a little harder and see some unique waterfalls check out our guide to finding Boise’s Hidden Waterfalls.
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.
