Nestled along a small stretch of the South Fork of the Snake River is a brief but wonderful 1-mile hiking trail. It’s known as the Cress Creek Nature Trail and it makes for an easygoing adventure that the whole family can love. Walk through woods, over slopes, and along a lush creek for a delightful outing that truly showcases Idaho’s natural beauty. This simple river hike will definitely become a regular destination for when you feel like immersing yourself in beautiful natural surroundings.

For a family-friendly day hike that delivers on natural beauty, check out the Cress Creek Nature Trail along the South Fork of the Snake River. This short but sweet trail is a pure delight from beginning to end.
Courtnie Erickson/OnlyInYourState
The trailhead is located approximately 20 miles northeast of Idaho Falls. Take Highway 26 east, driving three miles past the Ririe turnoff and turning left onto North 160 East. You'll follow this road for two miles before turning right onto East 100 North, left onto North 5050 East, and left again on E. Heise Road. You'll find the parking area on the right.
lancechr/TripAdvisor
You'll start this tranquil adventure by hopping on a paved sidewalk that departs from the parking area. The trail is relatively short at just over one mile, but you'll find yourself taking your time as you breathe in the fresh air and keep an eye out for different flora and fauna.
Suz Ulrich/AllTrails

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We strongly suggest you pay close attention to the surroundings as you traverse the trail. If you're quiet enough, you're bound to spot some of the wildlife that is known to the area including deer, rabbits, lizards, and possibly even eagles or moose.
Lauren Kussee/AllTrails
The trail closely follows the Snake River, providing you with gorgeous views of its calm flowing waters. The paved trail ends at an overlook and picnic area where you can stop, rest, and take it all in. From our experience, this is one river hike in Idaho with many breathtaking views — you'll definitely want to bring your camera.
RadDude26/TripAdvisor
From the overlook, hikers can continue onto a connected dirt trail that loops out to even more stunning views of the area. Covered in wildflowers, cottonwood trees, buttes, and lush greenery, the Snake River Plain is one of Idaho's most incredible landscapes.
Courtnie Erickson/OnlyInYourState
From our experience, the Cress Creek Nature Trail is the definition of a gentle hike. Lose yourself to the sounds of eastern Idaho's Snake River Plain and be sure to check out this hike in your next family outing.
Courtnie Erickson/OnlyInYourState

Have you ever tackled the Cress Creek Nature Trail in Idaho? If so, what did you enjoy most about this trail? Do you have any Cress Creek Nature Trail photos? If so, let us know in the comments!

For more short but sweet adventures, check out this list of 10 Amazing Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love. Whether you tackle this river trail in Idaho on your own or with your entire family, make sure you are prepared with the right gear. Check out our ultimate hiking list to ensure you are ready for your upcoming adventure!

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More to Explore

Cress Creek Nature Trail

Courtnie Erickson | October 16, 2023

What are some other easy hikes in Idaho?

The Cress Creek Nature Trail in southeastern Idaho is the perfect family adventure. However, this is not the only easy trail in Idaho to explore. There are many incredible hiking trails in the Gem State that are perfect for some time outdoors and that won’t physically exhaust you. Some other easy hikes in Idaho to add to your bucket list include:

 

What are some beautiful overlooks I should visit in Idaho?

Cress Creek Nature Trail is a hike that offers breathtaking overlooks in southeastern Idaho. Fortunately, this is just the beginning of the beautiful overlooks to visit in Idaho. Some of my favorites include:

 

If you want to visit many of the best overlooks in Idaho, we have just the thing for you! We created a road trip that takes you to several photo-worthy overlooks in Idaho. You can check out the itinerary in our feature article.

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Featured Addresses
Cress Creek Nature Trail, 11760-11894 S Snake River Rd, Rexburg, ID 83440, USA