Smith Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Smith Falls
Smith Falls is a quiet, picturesque waterfall in Idaho that offers a peaceful escape into the woods. Tucked away from busier attractions, the falls are well suited to hikers seeking solitude and a scenic payoff without a long commitment. The setting is ideal for a half-day outing or a relaxed nature stop to enjoy the sound of falling water and surrounding forest. The waterfall is reached via a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail that climbs about 350 feet and is rated moderate, so it’s a good choice for hikers with some trail experience. For those looking to camp nearby, Shorty Peak Lookout campground is approximately 9.77 km from the falls and can serve as a convenient overnight base for exploring the area.
The Setting
Smith Falls sits at 1,909 feet along the Boundary Creek, in the hills of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: 350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Official USFS surface, grade, and trail class information for this route are not included in the available data. Hikers should plan for a moderate, forested trail with variable footing and come prepared with appropriate footwear, water, and basic navigation; conditions can change with seasons and weather.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil setting with the sound of cascading water and surrounding natural beauty. The area may be remote, so plan accordingly.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Smith Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Smith 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 at its peak due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The area may be remote with limited cell service. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry essential supplies. Inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
62 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
9.86 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BOUNDARY CREEK NR PORTHILL ID (4 km away).
Today
Roaring
62 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
65 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
70 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
70 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
73 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
67 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
67 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early July, 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 Bonners 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 bare-earth surface loses about 145 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,909 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 133 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 123 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,909 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 142 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Smith Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or contact nearby ranger stations for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,909 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.959948° N, -116.557992° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the location may be difficult to find. Wear sturdy footwear and pack water and snacks.
Where to Stay
Skimmerhorn Inn
The Valley View Cabins and Event Center
Mountain View Retreat
Ramada by Wyndham Creston
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT
6.1 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Shorty Peak Lookout, 45 miles northwest of Bonners Ferry, sits atop Shorty Peak with views of the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges of Northern Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia. The rustic dwelling was once used to patrol forest fires, and is now a unique way for overnight guests to escape the city and become enthralled with 360 degree views of area's magnificence. Access requires a moderate to steep 2.5 mile hike with a 1,300 foot elevation gain. The lookout was refurbished in 200
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas in Idaho.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Idaho wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.
Cities near Smith Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Smith Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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