The Little Known Natural Oasis Hiding In Idaho That's Impossible Not To Love

Swan Valley, Idaho is a small slice of heaven on the eastern border of Idaho and Wyoming. Just a short drive away from Idaho Falls and Yellowstone National Park, this breathtaking region features mesmerizing rural beauty, gorgeous hiking trails, hidden lakes, and a natural Idaho charm that makes it a true Gem State haven. But cascading gloriously over the mountainside in dozens of veil-like strands into the Snake River is one of the most picture-perfect oases in the state: Fall Creek Falls, the town’s crowning jewel. Lush and scenic, this oasis is treasured by locals but surprisingly unknown to the majority of Idahoans. One visit will take your breath away, but the more you explore the nooks and crannies that make this haven so special, the more you’ll fall in love!

jif135/TripAdvisor

Swan Valley and the South Fork of the Snake River is a charming basecamp near some of the world's best known recreation areas including Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Island Park, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, and Henry's Fork. For a great place to stay, check out the Hansen-Silver Guest Ranch for a quiet and relaxing night's sleep, plus a mind-blowing breakfast.

Patti McNeal/Flickr

Only a few hundred residents call this gem 'home,' but here you'll find some of eastern Idaho's best fall foliage due to an abundance of Cottonwoods.

Advertisement

Wikimedia Commons

Advertisement

Related Stories

The One Place In Idaho That Looks Like Something From Middle Earth

The Underrated River That Just Might Be The Most Beautiful Place In Idaho

The Scenic Winter Drive Through Idaho That Will Absolutely Enchant You

David Waterman/YouTube

The South Fork area is a true oasis. Renowned for trout fishing and its overwhelming beauty, this section of the Snake River draws photographers and visitors from across the country. Be sure to catch a glorious sunrise over the water -- it'll definitely awaken your senses in the best way!

Bureau of Land Management/Flickr

Wikimedia Commons/Bob Wick

Just an hour's drive from Jackson Hole, this stunning waterfall is easy to access and just as gorgeous to photograph. Because this portion of the river is located in a National Forest, camping is free and perfectly legal, so long as you are 200 ft. from the water.

If you're willing to get wet, summers are the perfect time to wade out to one of the small islands and explore the base of the falls. Here you'll find secret caves, picturesque overlooks, and more.

But since pictures don’t quite do Fall Creek Falls justice, check out this drone video for a bird’s-eye view of this gorgeous waterfall as it cascades into the river:

A huge thank you to David Waterman for the footage! Be sure to check out his channel on YouTube for more Idaho goodness.

If you’ve never explored this gorgeous part of eastern Idaho but feel inspired to hike, photograph, and enjoy this natural wonder, take a gander at some of our other articles to make the most of your trip to this wonderful oasis. This amazing hike to two hidden mountain lakes is absolutely stunning, while this quaint fishing town just a few hours north is perfect for a rustic, extended getaway.