Are there fees or permits required for Little Drops?

No, there are no fees required to visit Little Drops.

Is swimming allowed at Little Drops?

No, swimming is not allowed at Little Drops.

LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP

Little Drops

Q: Are dogs allowed at Little Drops?

No, dogs are not allowed at Little Drops.

Idaho

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Shoshone Field Office PUB · Bureau of Land Management

About Little Drops

Little Drops is a small, picturesque waterfall tucked into Idaho’s quieter backcountry, offering a peaceful stop for hikers and photographers who prefer less-traveled scenery. The falls are most impressive in spring and early summer when snowmelt swells the stream, but their compact cascades and tranquil pool make them a rewarding destination any time of year. Expect a natural, intimate setting rather than a thunderous drop—perfect for a contemplative break or a short nature side-trip. The site sits on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Shoshone Field Office (designation: PUB), so access is governed by BLM rules and local land-use practices. Because Little Drops is relatively off the beaten path, visitors should check current conditions with the Shoshone Field Office before heading out and practice Leave No Trace principles to help keep this little gem pristine.

The Setting

Little Drops sits at 3,973 feet within Shoshone Field Office, fed by the Big Wood River Bl Magic Dam, in the mountains of Idaho.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The primary route to Little Drops is an out-and-back hike of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain; it’s commonly rated moderate. The approach is short but can include uneven footing and changing conditions, so wear supportive footwear and bring water and a basic first-aid kit. As the route crosses public BLM land, check with the Shoshone Field Office for up-to-date trail conditions, seasonal closures, or parking guidance before you go.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil setting with a small waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The flow of the waterfall may be seasonal, with spring and early summer offering the best views.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Drops?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Drops?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have the most water flow during these seasons.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Trail conditions may be uneven or unmarked. Visitors should prepare for potential hazards such as slippery rocks, changing weather, and limited cell service.

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge BIG WOOD RIVER BL MAGIC DAM NR RICHFIELD ID (30 km away).

Moderate confidence

Barely Flowing right now

2 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Barely Flowing

2 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

2 cfs

5/10

Wed

Barely Flowing

1 cfs

5/10

Thu

Barely Flowing

0 cfs

5/10

Fri

Barely Flowing

0 cfs

5/10

Sat

Barely Flowing

0 cfs

5/10

Sun

Barely Flowing

0 cfs

5/10

Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early August, peaking in May.

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 Shoshone 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.

1-meter lidar measures about 27 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Little Drops. The ground at the falls is roughly 3,975 feet above sea level.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Little Drops near Shoshone, Idaho, for comparison with the lidar view

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 3,975 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 27 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

The exact location and directions to Little Drops are not widely documented. Visitors are encouraged to consult local hiking resources or contact nearby park services for guidance.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should check with local resources or prepare for limited parking options near the trailhead.

Elevation

3,973 feet above sea level

Coordinates

42.978794° N, -114.421154° W

Land Management

Shoshone Field Office PUB

Managed by BLM

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a map or GPS device as the trail and access points may not be well-marked. Check weather conditions before visiting, and wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.