Explore Idaho: First Stop, Idaho Falls
Tour the River Walk
The Snake River meanders through Idaho Falls. Along its banks, you’ll experience phenomenal riverside scenery on paved, well-maintained pathways. Known as the River Walk, five miles of trails guide you’re journey up and down the river. Try one of the many great restaurants along the way, or grab an ice cream to enjoy with the scenery as you leisurely stroll through their locally own shops.
Wander the Craters of the Moon
West of Idaho Falls, you’ll discover Craters of the Moon National Monument. Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, experience unrivaled Milky Way visuals during night-time visits.
Lava fields and – you guessed it – giant craters, make up the park. Exploring the landscape, a volcanic atmosphere looms; a sense of slow-erupting drama ever-present.
You’ll find great hiking options when you’re there. From short 1-hour trips like the North Crater Flow, to longer trips like the hike to Big Craters or half day hike to the Tree Molds. For shorter visits, the 7-mile scenic loop drive gives you a sense of what the park has to offer.
Craters of the Moon National Monument is open year-round. For just $15, it’s well worth it. Head west from Idaho Falls on US highway 20 and marvel as you approach. Watch the craters as they grow in size, towering over the Martian-like plains of eastern Idaho.
For tips on how to get the best photos on your visit, take a look at our four tips for amazing memories.
Exploring the outdoors
The River Walk is just one chapter of Idaho Falls’ outdoors. Along the Snake River, you’ll also find opportunities for water skiing, white water rafting, and world class fly fishing. Idaho Falls may be a city, but the fresh waters of the Rocky Mountains make for an incredibly clean experience.
North, towards Island Park, you’ll find Harriman State Park. Sightings of moose, elk, bears, and deer aren’t uncommon on its 11,000 acres of protected lands. It’s part of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, and nature flourishes. Within, you can hike on all kinds of trails as well as bike, horseback ride, camp, and more – and it’s just one hour from Idaho Falls.
En route to Harriman State Park, don’t forget to stop at Mesa Falls. They’re as tall as a ten-story building and have a sound to match. The location is home to some great hiking options, as well as an abundance of places for impressive photos and picturesque picnics.
Best place to stay in Idaho?
Idaho Falls may well be. Its proximity to Craters of the Moon, Harriman State Park, and Yellowstone National Park make it ideal. And to top it off, the city itself is something to write home about. It’s clean, friendly, adventurous and home to a beautiful river and set of falls. For outdoor enthusiasts and city-visitors alike, Idaho Falls exceeds your expectations.
This story has been created in partnership with Visit USA Parks.
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