Do you love chasing waterfalls? Yes? Then, you must visit Twin Falls in Idaho for waterfalls chasing tour.
Idaho is home to more than 60 named waterfalls, and many more unnamed. In Twin Falls area only, you’ll find 15 waterfalls. The most popular waterfall in the area is Shoshone Falls (also called the Niagara of the West), but you’ll be amazed by all the incredible falls in Southern Idaho. And many of the waterfalls can be found near Twin Falls.
The city of Twin Falls is named after the two waterfalls in the Snake River Canyon. But there’s only one fall visible today. The dam diverted the water away from the second waterfall.
We’re going to show you beautiful waterfalls that you can’t miss during your visit to Twin Falls.
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Twin Falls Idaho: 9 Waterfalls Not to Miss
1. Shoshone Falls
The Shoshone Falls are probably one of the most famous waterfalls in Idaho and it’s what makes Twin Falls so popular. It’s one of the largest natural waterfalls in the USA.
The waterfalls even received the nickname “The Niagara of the West”. The fall is 212 feet (65 m) in height and more than 1000 feet (300 m) in width. In fact, it’s 45 feet (14 m) higher than Niagara Falls.
The waterfalls are located on the Snake River. It’s only about 3 miles from the city of Twin Falls. Shoshone Falls is a must-see attraction and it attracts many travelers and photographers from everywhere.
There is a $5 entrance fee (per car), but it gives you access to Shoshone Falls Park and Dierkes Lakes Park.
There are numerous hiking trails you’ll find in Shoshone Falls, so bring your hiking shoes. The Canyon Rim Trail is the most popular hiking trail in the area. It follows the canyon rim from Shoshone Falls to downtown Twin Fall.
When visiting the beautiful Dierkes Lake, you can enjoy a picnic by the lake as well as kayaking and swimming. There is even a kids’ playground.
2. Niagara Springs
Tucked in the Thousand Springs State Park, Niagara Springs is a sight that you’ll love. This icy blue glacial water running down at 250 cubic feet per second is a National Natural Landmark.
A bit further from Niagara Springs, you’ll find the beautiful Crystal Springs, a great spot for families that love fishing or enjoying a picnic.
A parking lot close to the Springs but the narrow and deep roads aren’t very suitable for RV or large trailers. But you won’t have any problem with a small campervan.
3. Caldron Linn Canyon
An incredible day trip from Twin Falls is Caldron Linn Canyon. Those waterfalls are also known as the Star Falls.
It’s located in the Magic Valley region about 35 minutes outside of Twin Falls. It’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Twin Falls area and truly is an hidden gem.
You can access the viewing point at Caldron Linn by car, however, it’s a muddy and rocky path which we wouldn’t recommend accessing with a regular car. Instead, park your car at the top and make your way to Cauldron Linn on foot.
The access to Caldron Linn is completely free.
This waterfall is also located on the Snake River Canyon. The water is running through an opening that is barely 40 feet wide on the Snake River Canyon wall.
What makes it different from other waterfalls in the area is the fact that it’s less frequented and more untouched. It also means that safety is important when visiting Caldron Linn Canyon, especially with kids.
You won’t find safety bars and railing there, so the cliffs can be a bit dangerous. Make sure to keep a close eye on your children when visiting this location.
Not far from the waterfall, you’ll find a lovely spot for swimming, fishing and kayaking.
4. Minnie Milner Falls in Ritter Island Unit
One of the most unique places to visit in Twin Falls is Ritter Island, located alongside the Snake River.
Ritter Island isn’t only home to one waterfall but two: Minnie Milner and Lemon Falls Make sure to add to your Twin Fall road trip itinerary.
Minnie Miller Springs is the biggest natural springs. It’s in fact one of the last remaining natural springs in the whole Thousand Springs complex.
There is a trail that leads to the Minnie Miller Springs from the old dairy bar. It’s a 0.25-mile walk to the springs. It’s a great place to have a picnic. You’ll find picnic tables.
Ritter Island is also a fun place for paddleboarding.
5. Lemon Falls in Ritter Island Unit
The Lemon Falls offers incredible views. The waterfall flows into Minnie Miller Springs.
There is a parking lot just located on the other side of Lemon Falls. There is also
Lemon Falls is located on the other side of the parking lot, which you can access by walking to a gate. The area around Lemon Falls has a hatchery too, and you can get up close to the waterfalls for beautiful views.
On top of these breathtaking waterfalls, there are many adventurous things to do on Ritter Island – boating, kayaking, hiking and canoeing.
If you visit Ritter Island in September, check out the famous Thousand Springs Festival where you’ll enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and much more.
6. Perrine Coulee Falls
Located very close to the town, Perrine Coulee Falls is a spectacular waterfall. It’s another must-see waterfall in Twin Falls. The Perrine Coulee Falls runs all year round.
The best way to access Perrine Coulee Falls is by parking along the road. Read the sign properly as it’s not allowed to park everywhere. Another option would be to park in the parking lot down the road for the Mogensen Trail. From there, go to Canyon Springs road and find the small trail to get to the falls.
If I’m honest here, Perrine Coulee Falls is one of my highlight of our stay in Twin Falls and one of the most memorable moments from our California to Montana road trip. We visited twice and loved both times.
When visiting Perrine Coulee Falls, make sure to take the trail and walk behind the fall. It’s simply magical. It’s a very easy hike to go with kids or anyone really. It’s beautiful all-day, but end of day and sunset is pretty amazing.
7. Pillar Falls
Pillar Falls is located on the Snake River close to the I.B. Perrine Bridge. The best time of year to see the Pillar Falls is during the summertime since the best way to access Pillar Falls is by going on a water adventure.
You can paddle, kayak or canoe here.
Paddling in the area is incredible because you’ll get a breathtaking view of 100-foot tall rock columns dividing the river forming Pillar Falls. You can park at the Centennial Park and rent kayaks or paddle boards from there.
It will be on your right a little before the Perrine Memorial Bridge.
Another way to explore Pillar Falls is by going on a hike. This 2.7 kilometer hike is considerated as moderate on AllTrails. The path is mostly rocky and muddy. It can be dangerous when the water levels are high.
If you opt for this hiking trail, the best time to do it is from April to October.
There is a parking lot at the start of Pole line road.
8. Twin Falls
The city of Twins Falls is named after the two waterfalls in the Snake River Canyon. But today, with the hydroelectric dam, only one waterfall is visible.
The Twin Falls are located in Kimberley (Idaho), not actually in the city of Twin Falls. Kimberley, ID is 8 miles away from Twin Falls.
You can contemplate the beautiful Twin Falls and the canyon from different points across the city, but Twin Falls Park is the most famous viewpoint.
We recommend visiting Twin Falls during spring as it’s incredibly beautiful seeing the strongest waters run through the canyon.
When we visited in September, the park was closed and we couldn’t see the water runs through the dam.
The entrance to Twin Falls is free.
9. Auger Falls
Located at Auger Falls Heritage Park, Auger Falls is well-known for its rugged landscape that attracts mountain bikers. It’s less than 25 minutes from downtown Twin Falls
Similarly, if you’re after a hiking adventure, Auger Falls is the best waterfall to visit in Twin Falls. You can find several moderate and challenging hikes in the area.
If you’re visiting Auger Falls with kids, the Auger Falls Park Loop is an easy to moderate 6.4 kilometer hike in which you’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of the Snake River.
The best time to visit this waterfall is in late spring and early summer when the snow melts and the water flow increases.
Auger Falls is a great place for hiking and mountain biking. But if you’re an history lover, you’ll enjoy the historical viewpoints across the park. You can even do some fishing.
There is a parking lot in the Auger Falls Heritage Park.
Final Thoughts : Which One is the Best Waterfalls in Twin Falls, Idaho?
This is one of the things I was most surprised with when we first explored Twin Falls, Idaho: the waterfalls. The area is filled with waterfalls that are all equally amazing.
From personal preference, my top 2 picks would be:
- Perrine Coulee Falls
- Ritter Island (Minnie Milner and Lemon Falls)
But if you have time, why not do a waterfall chasing road trip while exploring the beauty of Idaho? You won’t regret it.
Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.