Shoshone Falls
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Located in Southern Idaho along the Snake River, Shoshone Falls is one of the most popular natural attractions in the United States. The waterfall is often called the "Niagara of the West," and for good reason. The falls are an impressive 212 feet tall and over 900 feet wide, making this one of the largest waterfalls in North America. These falls have significant historical and cultural significance to the Shoshone-Bannock tribe. It was once an important gathering place for the tribe and for many spiritual ceremonies. The falls also played a crucial role in the region's development as its water was used for irrigation and to generate hydroelectric power.
The attraction has been a popular tourist destination since the late 1800s when the railroad was built at the nearby Twin Falls. Visitors can enjoy several activities at Shoshone Falls, including hiking, picnicking, and swimming. A viewing platform provides spectacular views of the falls, and you can take a boat tour to get an even closer look. Interestingly, the creation of Shoshone Falls can be traced back over 14,000 years. Shoshone Falls has also been featured in many films and television shows, including "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "River of No Return."
How to Get There
The nearest airport is the Jerome County Airport and Hazelton Municipal Airport-U94, about 15 miles from Shoshone Falls. If you prefer to drive, taking Highway 93 toward Twin Falls is the most direct route to Shoshone Falls. Once visitors arrive at Shoshone Falls, they can explore the area on foot using the various walking trails available. Boise and Twin Falls are two of the closest major cities near the falls.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to Shoshone Falls
Visit Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls, at its peak flow, can produce up to 20,000 cubic feet of water per second, making it one of the most powerful waterfalls in North America. It is part of the Snake River Canyon, which offers terrific views and a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. The canyon is also home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, and bald eagles.
Be sure to explore the Shoshone Falls Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the history and geology of the falls. There is a picnic area for enjoying the scenic views and relaxing in a peaceful environment. The best time to visit Shoshone Falls is from April to June, when the water flow is at its highest, and the weather is mild. This is also a great time to witness the annual fish migration, where thousands of salmon and steelhead make their way up the river.
Ticket Information
To obtain tickets to visit the renowned Shoshone Falls, visitors can conveniently purchase them at the entrance gate. The cost is $5 per vehicle from March 1st to September 30th. However, you can buy a seasonal pass for $25. It is important to note that parking is free, and you are encouraged to park your vehicle in designated areas to ensure the best experience for all. If you are interested in group visits on a bus, you have to pay $20.
Family-Friendly Options
One of the most popular family-oriented activities is hiking along the trails that lead to various viewpoints around the falls. These trails range from easy to moderate and offer visitors the chance to experience the beauty of the falls up close. You can picnic at one of the designated areas, which have benches, tables, and grills.
Another exciting feature of Shoshone Falls is the playground, designed for children of all ages. The playground has swings, slides, climbing structures, and other interactive equipment that kids love to play with. If you are looking for more adrenaline-pumping activities, there are water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. A boat tour of the falls and the Snake River is also possible, providing a unique perspective of the waterfall from the water.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Firstly, you should visit the Shoshone Falls Visitor Center to get oriented with the location, grab a map, and learn about the history of the falls. Take a leisurely hike along the trails along the scenic overlooks, river, and falls. Take your time and enjoy the scenery while capturing some of the best photos and memories. Enjoy a relaxing break and a picnic lunch at one of the park's scenic areas.
After your lunch break, consider a boat tour that takes you under the falls with a thrilling close-up view. This is particularly recommended during the warm months of the year, and it offers a unique perspective that gets you up close and personal with this natural wonder. During the winter, the falls freeze, and winter sports enthusiasts can participate in winter recreational activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing.
Shoshone Falls Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
The Oregon Trail Campground is perfectly located near some of the most breathtaking sights in Idaho. It rests only 10 minutes away from such inspiring locations as the Magic Valley, Ske River and Shoshone Falls. For a family that loves the outdoors, this campground is the perfect place to rest between adventures.
Some of the best RV camping in Twin Falls, Idaho can be done at the Twin Falls/Jerome KOA Holiday campground. It’s close to the Shoshone Falls, so your family can easily watch thrilling base jumpers risk their lives to catch some air. It’s also situated close to the interstate, so you can quickly hop on and off to make your adventuring all the easier.
Few campgrounds in Twin Falls, Idaho can boast that they have a 100-foot waterslide. Anderson Camp can. Whether you want to relax in their geothermal pools or watch your children have a blast flying down the waterslide, Anderson has something to offer everyone.
Activities Near Shoshone Falls
Things to Do
Fishing
The falls offer diverse fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, and white sturgeon, making it an excellent place for experienced and novice fishermen to cast a line. Perched on the edge of the Snake River, the falls create a perfect ecosystem for fish to thrive. With 20 miles of fishable waters, anglers can pursue their passion in solitude or among fellow enthusiasts.
Nature watching
Visitors to the falls may come across wildflowers such as lupines, penstemons, and Indian paintbrushes that create a beautiful tapestry against the stunning backdrop of the cascading waters. The riverbanks are frequented by animals such as marmots, beavers, and muskrats that feed on the vegetation that grows on the river's edge. You will find nesting sites for birds, such as the white-throated swift, which is known to build its nests behind the waterfall. The canyon wren can be heard with its distinctive call echoing through the cliffs.
Boating
You can enjoy the falls from various watercraft, kayaks, canoes, and jet skis. The roar of the water and the mist rising from the cascade make for an unforgettable ride, immersing you in the beauty and power of the natural world. Its river's currents may be strong, but that only makes the experience more thrilling.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
During the warmer months, the area experiences dry and hot weather, with temperatures averaging around 90°. If you plan on visiting during this time, pack light and breathable clothing, a sunhat, and sunscreen, as the heat can be intense. On the other hand, if you're planning a visit during the colder months between November and February, you should expect low temperatures averaging around 35°. This type of weather poses several challenges for visitors, including icy roads and limited hiking opportunities due to snow and other obstacles.
Safety & Accessibility
You should know the water level in the falls and the Snake River. The currents can be strong and rapidly changing, making it dangerous to enter the water. Visitors should also be mindful of slippery rocks and uneven terrain while hiking. For campers with disabilities, there are wheelchair-accessible paths to view the falls, and the overlooks have been designed to be wheelchair-friendly. The park also has accessible ramps and restrooms for the convenience of visitors with disabilities.
Conclusion
Shoshone Falls's breathtaking cascade is a sight to behold, and its outdoor activities will create lasting memories for all who visit. With careful preparations and consideration given to the weather conditions, visitors can enjoy all Shoshone Falls offers safely and comfortably. Whether you're looking to explore the trails, take a leisurely boat tour, or engage in thrilling water sports activities, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable experience. So add Shoshone Falls to your bucket list, and take advantage of this one-of-a-kind destination.
FAQ
There are several camping options near Shoshone Falls. The closest campground is located within Shoshone Falls Park, which has RV hookups and tent sites. Other campgrounds are nearby, such as the Twin Falls/Jerome KOA and the Thousand Springs State Park.
Shoshone Falls has RV hookups available, and there are additional RV-friendly campgrounds nearby as well. There is ample space for RV parking at the entrance of the park.
There is an admission fee to enter the park. You should be prepared for hiking on steep and rocky terrain to get to some viewing areas.
Several viewing areas are easily accessible to visitors of all ages, and the park has picnic areas and playgrounds for children. However, parents should supervise their children closely near the water and steep terrain.
Pets are not allowed at Shoshone Falls. This is due to the wild and natural environment of the falls and the potential safety concerns for both pets and other visitors.