Scenic waterfall area featuring two major cascades, a historic visitor center, boardwalk viewpoints, and interpretive trails.

General Information

Hours:

Open daily from late May to mid-September
Winter access by snowmobile or skis only

Fees:

Vehicles: $5/day
Motorcycles, bicycles, hikers: $1/day
Tour buses: $25/day

Pet Policy:

Pets allowed only in parking lots; no trail access; must be leashed

Closest cities with hotels:

Ashton (14 mi), Island Park (20 mi)

Seasons:

Late spring through early fall recommended; winter access limited

Location:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/2n1XzZzZzZq5z9A6

Website:

fs.usda.gov

How to Get There

From Idaho Falls (60 mi): Take US-20 north to Ashton, then turn right onto Highway 47 and follow signs to Upper Mesa Falls.

Overview

The Mesa Falls are among the last major waterfalls on the Snake River that remain undisturbed by dams or development. Upper Mesa Falls plunges 114 feet over a volcanic cliff, while Lower Mesa Falls offers a more distant but equally dramatic view downstream. Visitors can explore the historic Big Falls Inn, now a visitor center, and walk along boardwalks that provide panoramic views of the canyon and falls. Interpretive signs along the trails share the area's geology, wildlife, and cultural history.

Managed by the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and co-operated with Harriman State Park, the site is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers. Rainbows often appear in the mist on sunny mornings, and osprey and eagles are frequently seen soaring above the canyon. Whether you're hiking the Mesa Falls Nature Trail or simply enjoying a picnic with a view, this natural wonder offers a peaceful and educational retreat into Idaho’s wild beauty.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Mesa Falls, which are released under the https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/.