Tara Schatz
I'm a part-time adventurer and lover of beauty, as well as a freelance writer and photographer. When I'm not off exploring, I am writing from a little blue house in Vermont.
The best way to do this hike is to bike on the rail trail from the parking area at Jamaica State Park, then hike the 1.4 miles to the falls. Swimming isn't permitted here because of all the lives that have been lost, but you can certainly cool off below the falls. The falls are awesome in the spring, but more of a trickle during dry summers.
4.0
Despite the fact that this is essentially a roadside attraction, it's incredibly beautiful and fun to photograph. Note that the pool below the waterfall is very shallow and swimming is not allowed. For awesome swimming, head up route 100 a bit and stop at Warren Falls.
5.0
As it mentions in the overview, this is a popular spot, and for good reason. It's gorgeous, near awesome hiking trails, and is centrally located for exploring Grand Teton National Park. We stayed on a summer weekend, and even with every site taken, it did not feel crowded at all. There was ample space between sites and the campground mostly clears out during the day because there's so much to do nearby. The process to secure a site was super easy. You do not have to drive around asking people if they're leaving. The campground host lets people in one at a time to choose a spot from the ones that are marked unoccupied (even if there are people currently camped there). You choose the one you want, pay for it, and then head off on an adventure. Your campsite will be ready for you at 11 am when you come to check in.
5.0
We've hiked just about every trail in Merck Forest. It's a managed forest, with a whole lot of maple sugaring going on. The best part about Merck Forest is the cabin camping, especially in the winter. We stayed for three nights and didn't see another soul. Oh, and it's seriously dog-friendly too.
4.0
Great tips. This place is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves are turning. Of course, it's too cold to swim, but the hike down to the gorge is just beautiful.
3.0
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