LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Deadman Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Deadman Falls
Tucked into rugged BLM public lands, Deadman Falls is a rewarding, off-the-beaten-path cascade that drops into a steep, rocky canyon — a real hidden gem for hikers who like quiet scenic payoff. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Jarbidge Field Office, the site feels remote but is surprisingly accessible for a half-day outing; the falls make a dramatic focal point for photos and a peaceful place to linger and listen to tumbling water. The approach is short but satisfying: a 1.5-mile out-and-back that climbs roughly 300 feet, so you’ll earn sweeping canyon views without committing to a full-day trek. Because the falls sit on BLM land, expect a natural, undeveloped setting — bring sturdy shoes and water, and enjoy a low-key waterfall experience away from busier state and national forest sites.
The Setting
Deadman Falls sits at 2,907 feet within Jarbidge Field Office, fed by the Snake River, in the hills of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back, roughly 1.5 miles total with about 300 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route follows a short, steady path on BLM-managed land (Jarbidge Field Office) that leads to a vantage above the falls. Trail tread is natural and can be uneven and narrow in spots with some steeper sections as you approach the viewpoint, so sturdy footwear and steady footing are recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and secluded experience with stunning views of the waterfall cascading into a deep canyon. The area is surrounded by dense forest, adding to the sense of tranquility.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Deadman Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Deadman Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter access may be challenging due to snow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain or snow. Stay on marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edge of the canyon. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
7,310 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 117 years of record
6.13 ft
Water depth at gauge
61°F
WarmVery comfortable
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 61 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SNAKE RIVER AT KING HILL ID (17 km away).
Today
Roaring
7420 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
7395 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
7285 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
7420 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
7487 cfs
9/10Sat
Roaring
7504 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
7487 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to mid February, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Glenns Ferry hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 161 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 2,831 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 126 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 121 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,831 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 161 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Deadman Falls is located near the town of Elk River, Idaho. Access typically involves driving on forest service roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions. Directions can vary, so it is recommended to consult local maps or guides.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Be prepared for unpaved parking areas.
Elevation
2,907 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.889065° N, -115.351737° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Cell service may be limited, so download maps or directions in advance. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail can become slippery after rain.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 1.5 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Mountain Home Inn
Hampton Inn & Suites Mountain Home
Best Western Foothills Inn
Hilander Motel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Twin Falls, Idaho
Coyote Hot Spring
Coyote Hot Spring emerges at 135 degrees Fahrenheit on BLM land managed by the Four Rivers Field Office in Elmore County near G...
Latty Hot Spring
Latty Hot Spring flows at 144 degrees Fahrenheit from BLM land in Elmore County's high desert, about 20 miles north of Glenns F...
Hot Springs
At 158 degrees Fahrenheit, this unnamed spring near Mountain Home runs far too hot for soaking but ranks among Elmore County's ...
Bat Hot Spring, Pence Hot Spring
Bat Hot Spring, also called Pence Hot Spring, surfaces at 117 degrees Fahrenheit in the desert canyons of Elmore County. Its al...
Buckaroo Hot Spring
Buckaroo Hot Spring emerges at 109 degrees Fahrenheit in the same southern Idaho desert corridor as neighboring Bruneau Hot Spr...
Bruneau Hot Spring
Bruneau Hot Spring sits at just 2,625 feet in the low desert of Elmore County, where annual rainfall barely reaches 9.6 inches ...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Twin Falls, Idaho on SoakingSprings.
Explore Idaho springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Elk River Falls and the Elk River Backcountry Byway are nearby attractions worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if hiking in the region.
Cities near Deadman Falls
Other waterfalls named Deadman Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
Writing about Deadman Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.