There’s nothing more refreshing after a long hike than the breathtaking reward of a beautiful, cascading waterfall. And during the hot summer days, the thought of taking a dip right underneath the silky strands of a gushing waterfall sounds perfectly magical, doesn’t it? Fortunately, there’s one incredible hidden gem in Eastern Idaho where you can find a short, but challenging, hike to one of the best waterfall swimming holes in the state – and it’s straight out of your wildest dreams. Get ready to add Fall Creek Falls to your bucket list!

Just an hour's drive from Idaho Falls, the Caribou Mountains rise up out of the Eastern Idaho landscape, creating a beautiful backdrop to the quaint community of Swan Valley.
City of Swan Valley
One of the richest Cottonwood landscapes in the state, the area is shady with grassy meadows and plenty of summer wildflowers. The South Fork of the Snake River winds through here, creating a sparkling oasis for an abundance of wildlife.
elbyincali/Flickr
Nestled against the highway, hiding in picturesque secrecy, a magnificent, multi-tiered waterfall plunges into the river, creating a scene that has entranced photographers for decades.
Bob Wick, BLM/BLMIdaho/Flickr
These silky strands cascade into a luscious, rocky pool that sits just beneath the tallest tier, overflowing as it drops into the water below.
El Coleccionista de Instantes Fotografía & Video/Flickr

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An overlooked gem, the Falls Campground, is mere minutes away from this Idaho treasure and is easy to access with positively breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.
Julia Hustler/Google
The campground sits right along the Snake River and the campsites are nestled in the trees, creating ample shade for your stay. During your camping adventure, keep your eyes out for wildlife who frequent the area and lots of wildflowers that create the most photo-worthy backdrop.
But few people take advantage of the opportunity to hike to the base of the falls and enjoy them from a new perspective … but they should!
BLMIdaho, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Just a short distance from the main road, a one-mile hike leads to the base of the falls
O W/Google
Here, if you are willing to get wet, you can play around in the natural pools formed near the river's edge or wade out to one of the small islands and explore the base of the falls, following the stream the whole way.
You'll be mere feet from the towering falls, feeling the mist on your face the entire time!
Robert/flickr
For the adventurous at heart, a little scrambling will allow visitors to soak in the main pool itself, smack in the middle of the falls.
Take caution, however. Depending on the water's level, this can be a dangerous option.
City of Swan Valley
But whether enjoying the natural calm sections of the river, the beautiful sights from your own private island in the middle of the river, or lounging in the main pool itself, this is one incredible experience you won't soon forget!

Have you ever been to Fall Creek Falls in Idaho? What’s your favorite memory of the Swan Valley area?

To learn more about this stunning waterfall or the Fall Creek Campground, visit the Forest Service website.

But Swan Valley is hiding more than just gorgeous views. Next, dive into some delicious baked goods!

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Fall Creek Falls In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | July 07, 2022

What is the best waterfall swimming hole in Idaho?

There is nothing like jumping into a natural swimming hole in Idaho on a hot summer day. While there are a handful of excellent places to cool off in the Gem State, like Fall Creek Falls in Idaho, Jump Creek Falls is one of our favorites. This waterfall swimming hole in Idaho is located near Marsing and features a beautiful 60-foot waterfall and a large swimming hole. You do have a 0.6-mile hike to reach Jump Creek Falls, but luckily, the hike is easy and relatively flat. There’s no doubt that Jump Creek Falls is one of the best waterfall swimming holes in Idaho.

What is one of the best waterfall hikes in Idaho?

Here in Idaho, there are several waterfalls hikes that are just waiting to be explored. One that we highly recommend for the entire family is Mesa Falls. These waterfalls are some of the most beautiful in the entire state as they are surrounded by forests, mountains, rocks, cliffs, and more. Plus, the hike to reach these falls is easy and well-maintained, making it the perfect family outing. Make sure to bring your camera because these waterfalls are a scene that you will always want to remember.

If you are searching for a waterfall hike in Idaho that is just a little bit longer and more challenging, head near McCall. Here, you will find the Goose Creek Falls Trail, which is a 3-mile trail and you will gain approximately 700 feet in elevation. Despite a little difficulty, all of your hard work will be worth it in the end when you reach Goose Creek Falls. Try to tackle this hike in the spring when these falls are truly roaring.

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Fall Creek Falls, Idaho 83449, USA