Upper and Lower Mesa Falls Loop

Ashton, Idaho

4.8/5
based on 12 reviews

Details

Distance

2.6 miles

Elevation Gain

358 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Josh Packer

The scenic byway in the Grand Targhee Forest offers easy access to the viewing platforms to see the 114-foot tall and 200-foot wide waterfall. This is a short, must-do trip with the family on the way to West Yellowstone from Idaho.

When two waterfalls have their own scenic byway, you know it is worth the additional stop. Lower Mesa Falls and Upper Mesa Falls are spectacular waterfalls along the Henrys Fork River, deep in the Grand Targhee Forest. The winding scenic byway yields some spectacular views of the Grand Targhee Forest, especially during fall when all the quaking aspens and other trees are changing colors. In winter, the byway is closed because of the snow, but is groomed for snowmobiling and Nordic skiing.

Before heading down to the falls, you can stop at the visitor center, which provides information on the history of the falls and the lodge. Then make the short hike down the trail and stairs to the viewing platform, and take in the beauty of the lush forest, beautiful river, and roaring waterfall. There are many picturesque spots to take photos. On sunny days there is a rainbow in front of the falls from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

If you would like to be adventurous and get a unique, picturesque view of the falls along the river, there is a somewhat hidden trail to hike down. Right next to the stairs that lead back up to the parking area is a guard rail. Look over the guard rail on the right by the bushes until you see the trail. Exercising caution, hop over the guard rail and meander down for 15 or 20 minutes until you get to the river. From there, make your way to the waterfall to enjoy the breathtaking view of falls. For photographers, there is a rock in the river where you can place your tripod and camera to have the perfect angle of the waterfall below Upper Mesa Falls.

Getting there: On the way to West Yellowstone on Hwy 20, turn east onto Hwy 47 in Ashton, Idaho and travel for about 15 miles through the Grand Targhee Forest. Lower Mesa Falls is about 0.7 miles before you get to the turn off for Upper Mesa Falls and is worth the stop. Afterwards, get back on the byway until you reach the turnoff for Upper Mesa Falls, and drive down the winding road until you arrive at the parking area. There is a self-service pay station, and the cost is $5 per vehicle. There will be a sign with directions on how to get to the viewing platform.

Once you are ready to leave, you can continue driving north for 13 miles on Hwy 47 on the byway until you get back onto Hwy 20. Continue north on Hwy 20 for about 35 miles until you reach West Yellowstone.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife
ADA Accessible
Waterfalls

Upper and Lower Mesa Falls Loop Reviews

Not many biting or stinging bugs, nice weather, pretty flowers, a good deal of people but not incredibly crowded

These falls are beautiful—and actually fairly big for how little-known they are! Despite the fact that you probably won’t know many people who have heard about them, there’s usually a good 5-20 other people there at any given time. The viewing decks are great; haven’t yet had the time/courage to take one of the non-trails down to the actual river yet, but maybe next time... Also, parking does cost $5, HOWEVER last time I went the parking lot was closed for construction, so we just parked off the side of the main road & walked down—bonus: we actually got a decent hike in!

These falls certainly fit the category- “Coolest Places You’ve Never Heard About.”

By far the most gorgeous and insane waterfall I’ve ever seen. Be sure to take the little nature trail hike and go down to check out lower Mesa falls too!

The most beautiful waterfall in idaho.

Upper Mesa Falls is gorgeous, the viewing platforms allow you to get closer than I expected. There are a good number of people, but with some patience you can get a great view.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Mesa Nature Trail

Yurt Camping in Harriman State Park

Snowshoe the River Ranch Loop in Harriman SP

Hike the River Trail and Ranch Loop at Harriman State Park

Dunanda Falls via Boundary Creek Trail

Explore Henry's Fork Dam in Island Park

Visit Idaho

Idaho is a picturesque state filled with beautiful scenery and warm, wonderful people. It's an ideal destination for family travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those just looking for a relaxing getaway.

Learn More