The Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About The Falls
The Falls in Idaho is a quietly scenic cascade set on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Bruneau Field Office. A compact but rewarding destination, it draws hikers and photographers who appreciate a short outing with a scenic payoff. The setting feels remote and natural—an easy escape for those looking to sample Idaho’s rugged landscape without committing to a long backcountry expedition. The site sits on BLM-managed ground (designation: PUB), so access and conditions can change with season and weather; the Bruneau Field Office is the best source for up-to-date trail and access information. The Falls is well suited to day visitors and moderate hikers—bring water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear, and be prepared for variable trail conditions typical of BLM routes in the region.
The Setting
The Falls sits at 5,463 feet within Bruneau Field Office, in the high mountains of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The BLM lists it as a straightforward out-and-back hike; more detailed surface, grade, or official trail class information is not specified in the available land unit data. Trail conditions can vary, so check with the Bruneau Field Office before you go for current access, parking, and any seasonal advisories.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene natural environment with the sound of cascading water and opportunities for photography. The area may also feature surrounding forested landscapes or open vistas.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not well-documented. Visitors with mobility concerns should check with local resources for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at The Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at The Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is often at its peak due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow.
Safety Information
Trails may be slippery, especially after rain or during spring snowmelt. Visitors should exercise caution near the water and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Cottonwood Creek, 5.7 miles away, not on The Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
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 COTTONWOOD CREEK NR HARVEY POINT NR BRUNEAU, ID (9 km away).
Today
Moderate
1 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
1 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
1 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
1 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
1 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
1 cfs
9/10Best window: Sat — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Grand View 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 ground through the falls loses about 186 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,513 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 94 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 146 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
- 5,513 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 186 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
The Falls can typically be accessed via a short drive from nearby towns or cities in Idaho. Specific directions depend on the exact location of the waterfall, which may vary as there are multiple waterfalls referred to as 'The Falls' in Idaho.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability may vary depending on the specific location of The Falls. Visitors are advised to check local resources or signage for parking details.
Elevation
5,463 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.529615° N, -116.188161° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as trail conditions and distances may vary. Check weather conditions before visiting, especially during spring when trails may be muddy.
This trail sits at 5,463 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 22% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Where to Stay
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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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near The Falls, Idaho on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other waterfalls, hiking trails, or scenic viewpoints in Idaho. Specific recommendations depend on the exact location of The Falls.
Wildlife
The area may feature local wildlife such as birds, deer, or small mammals. Visitors should observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Other waterfalls named The Falls
20 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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