The best walks and hikes in Jerome County

Yes, many trails in the area are suitable for hiking with a dog, provided they are kept on a leash. The trails in Snake River Canyons Park are a good option for exploring the canyon's north rim with your canine companion. Always remember to bring enough water for both you and your dog, especially on warm days, and be mindful of the rocky terrain and potential wildlife.

For an easy and historic walk, consider the trail to Wilson Butte Cave, an archaeological site on the Snake River Plain. Another family-friendly option is the Yingst Grade trail, which leads down to Mermaid Cove. While the path is wide, be aware that the descent into the canyon can be steep in sections.

Yes, the region has some beautiful waterfall hikes. The trail to Mermaid Cove features a seasonal waterfall that flows into a swimmable pool, which is especially popular from late spring to mid-summer. For a more strenuous option, the Nellis and Irwin Trail within Snake River Canyons Park also passes by waterfalls on its way down to the river.

The hike to Mermaid Cove starts from the Yingst Grade trailhead, located near the Jerome Country Club. The trail follows a former dirt road for about 1.1 miles down into the Snake River Canyon. You'll descend towards the river, where you'll find the cove and its seasonal waterfall. Parking is available at the start of the trail.

If you're looking for a strenuous hike, the Nellis and Irwin Trail in Snake River Canyons Park offers a significant challenge. This steep trail descends from the canyon rim all the way to the Snake River, providing a tough workout with rewarding views. Another option for a longer, more demanding day is the Hiking loop from Twin Falls, which covers over 8.5 miles (13.8 km) with considerable elevation change.

For dramatic vistas from the north rim, the trails within Snake River Canyons Park are excellent choices. You can access these from trailheads like Morley Arbor or Zuck Arbor. For a different perspective, the Snake River Viewpoint – Shoshone Falls loop from Twin Falls offers fantastic scenery from the south side of the canyon, showcasing its immense scale.

Yes, there are several loop trails to explore. For a shorter walk with great views, consider the Shoshone Falls – Snake River Viewpoint loop from Twin Falls, which is about 2.7 miles (4.3 km). If you're looking for something longer, the Shaded Stone Seating Area loop from Twin Falls is a moderate 5.7-mile (9.2 km) circuit that provides ample time to enjoy the canyon landscape.

The trails in and around Jerome County are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic canyon views, the unique basalt rock formations, and the variety of trails that descend from the rim to the Snake River.

There are over 20 designated hiking routes in and around Jerome County. These range from short, easy walks along the canyon rim to more strenuous descents to the Snake River, offering plenty of options for all skill levels.

Parking availability depends on the trail. For hikes into Snake River Canyons Park, you can find parking at trailheads like Morley Arbor and Zuck Arbor. The popular Yingst Grade trail to Mermaid Cove has a designated parking lot near its start. For trails on the south side of the canyon, such as those in Auger Falls Heritage Park, the Auger Falls Trailhead is a well-established starting point.

Absolutely. For a hike into ancient history, the trail to Wilson Butte Cave is a must-do. The cave is a lava tube and an important archaeological site. For a unique geological landscape, explore Devil's Corral, where you can hike through a rugged canyon shaped by ancient floods. Note that some areas are restricted to foot traffic to preserve artifacts, as managed by the Bureau of Land Management.