The next place we are covering is Shoshone Falls in Snake River Canyon in Idaho. Known as the “Niagara of the West”, it is 212 feet high (which is 45 feet higher than Niagara Falls), and spans 1,000 feet wide. One of the deepest parts of Snake River Canyon is 500 feet deep and is overlooked by the Perrine Bridge. The falls and thought to have has tourists since the mid-nineteenth century in which travelers along the Oregon Trail would go off course in order to visit.
Shoshone Falls was named after Lemhi Shoshone tribe who were based in the Salmon River in Idaho. Known as the “Salmon Eaters”, salmon was their main food source along with buffalo, roots, and nuts. In 1869, miners began flooding Shoshone Falls after it was discovered that one of the canyons had gold. The gold rush didn’t last long though, because of the location of the gold was difficult for miners to remove it.
Planning Your Trip!
You can visit the falls any time of the year, but the prime month to go is in April when the spring run-off happens at its fullest peak. The high waters from snow melting, and when combined with high precipitation year, makes for the most memorable views so be sure to bring your camera! You also don’t want to miss out on the spring event called, Shoshone Falls After Dark. That is our favorite time of the year to visit, especially our kids! Great for all ages, the event comes with vendors set up with food, while lights are projected onto the falls and Snake River Canyon walls!
When planning your visit, be sure to also check out the trails in Shoshone Falls Park. One of the most popular trails, Canyon Rim Trail, is paved and extends from Shoshone Falls to Snake River Canyon. There are also smaller waterfalls spread throughout that enhance the surroundings even more.
Tips when visiting the falls:
- Spring is the best time of year to visit. Check out Shoshone Falls after Dark during that time too!
- Plan to pay $5 per car when visiting, or you can pay $25 for season passes.
- Park hours are from dawn until dusk
- The park is dog-friendly but be sure to keep them on a leash!
- While there is no camping at Shoshone Falls, you can swim above the falls at Dierkes Lake.
- The average temperature in the summer is a cool 80 degrees, so wear your shorts but be sure to bring a light jacket just in case!
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