Hike to the Top of Lower Mesa Falls
Rate this Adventure Idaho › Upper Mesa Falls Parking, Idaho
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Activities:
Photography, Hiking
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Skill Level:
Advanced
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Season:
Spring, Summer, Autumn
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Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
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RT Distance:
2.5 Miles
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Elevation Gain:
400 Feet
The little-known Mesa Nature Trail leads hikers to the very edge of Lower Mesa Falls. Bask in waves of mist as the water plunges 65 feet to the river below.
The Mesa Nature Trail begins on the dirt road to the Upper Mesa Falls overflow parking lot. The first mile of the trail is wide and smooth. Pause a half mile in to admire the Henry's Fork from the top of a lava field.
The trail terminates at a flat bluff overlooking the top of Upper Mesa Falls. To get closer, follow the narrow trail that heads north from the bluff.
The trail, steep and covered with loose dirt, quickly descends to the edge of the river. Follow the river south through a boulder field of lava rock until it reaches a small flat rock at the edge of the waterfall.
Use extreme caution to admire the steep plunge of water down the falls.
To admire Upper Mesa Falls without the scramble, drive south on the Mesa Scenic Byway to the Upper Mesa Falls viewing deck.
Pack List
- $5 cash or check for park entry fee
- Mesa Falls Map
- Camera
- Water
- Sturdy shoes with a rough sole
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