The Essential First-Timer’s Guide To Shoshone Falls
Coming in at a height of 212 feet and a width of 900, Shoshone Falls is one of Southern Idaho’s most popular natural attractions. Surpassing the height of its New York counterpart, it’s fittingly referred to as the, “Niagara of the West”.
Shoshone Falls is located just 7 miles from Twin Falls. Its natural beauty, impressive flow, and ease of access makes it uber popular, attracting more than half a million spectators annually.
This guide will give you all the information you’ll need to see this natural wonder for yourself. At the end of the article, we’ll also give you some recommendations of other attractions you’ll want to check out while you’re there.
Getting There
As stated above, Shoshone Falls is located just 7 miles outside the city of Twin Falls in Southern Idaho and the directions are fairly straightforward. Starting from Twin Falls:
You’ll head northeast on Shonshone Street towards 2nd Ave
Take a slight right on Addison Ave
Turn left on Champlin road. Stay on for 2.5 miles and stay left at the junction before arriving at the parking lot
For GPS purposes, the exact address is 4155 Shoshone Falls Grade Road, Twin Falls, ID 83301
On the way, you’ll drive through beautiful farmlands before descending into an impressive canyon as you make your way to the falls.
If you pay attention and you’re here at the right time of year, you’ll see little streams of water coming down the canyon walls around you. It’s a gorgeous sight.
Parking & Fees
Between the months of March and September, there is a fee to visit the falls (and Dierkes Lake). The fee is just $5 per vehicle and you’ll pay at the toll booth near the entrance.
You can pay with cash or credit/debit card. If you plan to visit five or more times during the season, consider purchasing an annual pass at just $25.
It’s worth mentioning that when we came here in late June (close to sunset), there was no one collecting fees. We just drove right in. Not sure if this happens often but it was our experience.
Shoshone Falls
From the parking lot, there are a few viewing platforms to see the falls from. The middle one (the closest and most popular) is right off the lot and is accessed by a stairwell.
Uphill and to the right is where you’ll find another viewing platform. This one was our least favorite as there was lots of shrubbery blocking the view.
In the opposite direction to the left is a higher platform and was our favorite as it gave us a great view of not just the falls, but the Snake River as well. It was also much less crowded.
When to Visit
This was something we wish we researched more before we came. In the summer, much of the river is diverted for irrigation purposes (we were here in late June and flow was minimal).
If you come in the fall time, Shoshone Falls will look nearly dry as the snowmelt is pretty much gone at that point and the remaining flow is used to recharge the reservoir system upstream.
That said, spring is the undisputed best time to view the falls. Provided there was a decent snowfall throughout winter, you’ll be able to see the falls at its best.
The park has a livestream camera that you can utilize before your visit to see what the flow is looking like. You can view that here.
Nearby Attractions
Shoshone Falls may be the most known attraction in the area, but you could easily spend a few days or more exploring everything Twin Falls (and the surrounding area) has to offer. Below are just a few of our suggestions.
Evel Knivel Jump Site
Located downstream from Shoshone Falls is where you’ll find the location where famed daredevil, Evel Knievel, attempted to launch himself over the Snake River in a steam powered “skycycle”.
You’ll scratch your head in disbelief when you see for yourself the sheer magnitude of this attempted jump and make you wonder what the @#$! he was thinking.
Perrine Bridge
Further downstream from the falls and jump site is the Perrine Memorial Bridge. This impressive bridge spans 1500 feet across Snake River Canyon and connects the cities of Twin Falls and Jerome.
Both sides of the bridge have parking lots and viewing decks and much like most popular bridges, there’s a pedestrian walkway you can utilize.
Twin Falls Visitor Center
Near the Twin Falls side of the bridge is where you’ll find the city’s visitor center. It’s a beautiful building that features merchandise, knowledgeable employees, photography displays of local attractions, and its own viewing deck of the canyon, bridge, and river.
Shoshone Ice Caves
Located outside the town of Shoshone, Idaho (about 45 minutes from Twin Falls), the ice cave is a MUST if you’re in the area. Your tour guide will take you through a 1,000 foot lava tube on walking planks above the ice. On a hot day, this is the perfect activity to take part in.
Conclusion
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Thanks for reading and safe travels!
