Attractions and Places To See in Twin Falls County - Top 11

Twin Falls County is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Shoshone Falls, often called the 'Niagara of the West,' which is taller than Niagara Falls. The expansive Snake River Canyon offers dramatic views, and you can hike behind the impressive Perrine Coulee Falls. Don't miss the unique geological formation of Balanced Rock or the diverse landscapes and numerous waterfalls within Thousand Springs State Park, including Malad Gorge and Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve.

Yes, the region has several significant historical sites. You can explore Stricker Rock Creek Station, the first trading post along the Oregon Trail, offering a glimpse into pioneer life. The Twin Falls County Historical Museum provides insights into the early days of the Magic Valley, including the Oregon Trail migration. Additionally, the Minidoka National Historic Site, a short drive away, preserves the story of Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II.

Many attractions are suitable for families. Shoshone Falls and the Shoshone Falls Overlook — Centennial Trail are great for all ages. Dierkes Lake Park, located behind Shoshone Falls, is ideal for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The Herrett Center for Arts and Science features an anthropological museum with a mammoth skeleton and a planetarium, offering educational fun. The Canyon Rim Trail is also a paved, family-friendly option for walking or biking with scenic views.

The best time to witness the full power of Shoshone Falls is typically in the spring, when snowmelt from the Snake River basin increases the water flow, creating a spectacular display. The falls are open year-round from dawn to dusk, but water levels can vary significantly by season.

Twin Falls County offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find a variety of hiking trails, from easy paths like Dierkes Lake Trail and Perrine Coulee Falls to more challenging routes like the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail. For cycling, options include the Auger Falls Trailhead loop or longer routes along the Snake River - Canyon Rim Trail. Explore more routes and details on our Hiking in Twin Falls County, Running Trails in Twin Falls County, and Cycling in Twin Falls County guide pages.

For wheelchair-accessible views, the Snake River Lookout offers facilities and stunning river vistas. The Shoshone Falls Overlook — Centennial Trail also features a boardwalk that extends above the canyon rim, providing an elevated and accessible perspective of the falls.

The Perrine Bridge is an iconic landmark spanning the Snake River Canyon, approximately 500 feet above the river. It's renowned as the only location in the U.S. where BASE jumping is permitted year-round without a permit, making it a unique spot for daredevils and spectators alike. It also offers incredible panoramic views of the canyon.

Yes, you can find several hot springs nearby. Miracle Hot Springs offers private pools and spa-like amenities for a relaxing experience, while Banbury Hot Springs features a larger public pool with a vintage charm. Both provide opportunities to unwind in the natural geothermal waters.

For Shoshone Falls and Dierkes Lake, there is a $5.00 fee per vehicle for parking, which is in effect from March 1st through September 30th. Access by bike or on foot is free. Parking is also available at the Twin Falls Visitor Center, which provides access to the Canyon Rim Trail and views of the Perrine Bridge.

Yes, near the Perrine Bridge, you can visit the Evel Knievel Snake River Canyon Jump Site. This is where Evel Knievel famously attempted to jump the Snake River Canyon in 1974 using a steam-powered rocket. A monument commemorates this historic, albeit unsuccessful, stunt.

Yes, areas like Auger Falls and Thousand Springs State Park are excellent for wildlife viewing. The diverse habitats along the Snake River and its tributaries attract various bird species and other local wildlife. The Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, while its fossil beds are closed to the public, offers scenic overlooks of the Snake River, where you might spot local fauna.

Twin Falls offers several cultural institutions. The Herrett Center for Arts and Science on the College of Southern Idaho campus features an anthropological museum, art exhibits, and a planetarium. The Twin Falls Center for the Arts, headquarters for the Magic Valley Arts Council, hosts art events and exhibitions. The historic Orpheum Theatre also offers musical theater productions and classic film screenings.