Little Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Little Falls
Little Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the forests of Boise National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Its compact, photogenic drop and peaceful wooded setting make it a rewarding short outing for hikers and photographers who want a quiet nature stop without a long approach. The waterfall is reached via a moderate out-and-back route of 2.4 miles with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain, a profile that suits fit families and day hikers. The closest developed camping is the Payette River: South Fork campground, about 14.2 km from the trailhead; before you go, check current conditions and access with the Boise National Forest ranger district to confirm seasonal closures or trail updates.
The Setting
Little Falls sits at 3,399 feet within Boise National Forest, fed by the South Fork Payette River, in the mountains of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: Out-and-back. Surface, grade and USFS trail class are not specified in the available USFS data, so expect variable natural tread and consult Boise National Forest for the latest trail condition reports and any route-specific details.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by Idaho's scenic landscapes. The area may be less crowded compared to larger waterfalls.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be higher due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Boise National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Always stay on marked trails if available.
Current Water Conditions
340 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 84 years of record
3.31 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 SOUTH FORK PAYETTE RIVER AT LOWMAN, ID (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
367 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
353 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
340 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
340 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
340 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
339 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
337 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in June.
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 Lowman 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 115 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 3,392 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 101 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 278 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
- 3,392 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 115 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
Little Falls is located in Idaho, but specific directions to the site may vary depending on the region. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or GPS for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but there may be small parking areas nearby. Visitors should plan accordingly and check for updates before visiting.
Elevation
3,399 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.072396° N, -115.762612° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. Check weather conditions before visiting, and carry water and snacks.
Where to Stay
Idaho City Hotel
The Gold Mine Hotel
On-Site Creek and Trails Huge Garden Valley Estate
Hot Tub Soaks & Spot Wildlife! Garden Valley Cabin
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 Campground
Payette River: South Fork
8.8 miles away · 0 sites
ALERT - The Swirly Canyon segment of the South Fork Payette River stretch offers opportunities for camping and fishing in a scenic mountain area. The BLM's South Fork Recreation Site is an undeveloped camping spot along the river.
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Boise, Idaho on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural landmarks or hiking trails in Idaho. Research local guides for more information.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Idaho wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of wildlife.
Cities near Little Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Little Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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