The remote Idaho destination where the drive and hike are worth the last view

In every corner of Idaho you’ll find waterfalls that inspire awe with their size and untamed power, as well as smaller waterfalls that soothe and refresh with their soothing forest sounds and gentle mists. But regardless of size, many of the most talked-about waterfalls in Idaho seem to be in the most populated and accessible areas. If you’re anything like us, you know that the best waterfalls in Idaho are definitely not the ones that the crowds flock to; they are the waterfalls that are far off the beaten track, tucked away in unexpected corners on backcountry walks. or quietly and subtly descending a rocky mountainside during a long ride.

Hidden in the rugged wilderness of east-central Idaho, far from the beaten path of popular tourist routes, lies a waterfall so underrated by the tourist crowds of southern Idaho and Yellowstone that only the most adventurous Idahoans have visited it – although it is quite is good. -known to the locals. It’s not the tallest or most dramatic waterfall in the state, but its charm lies in its relative seclusion, its raw, simple beauty, and the sense that you’ve discovered something new when you stand in front of it.

Fall Creek Falls is a name shared by a few other waterfalls in the state, which has kept this hidden gem blissfully off the radar. The air is different here: thick with pine trees and the sweet, earthy scent of sagebrush, with nothing but the sound of running water breaking the silence.

You’ll find this lovely little waterfall near Mackay, Challis and a few other small towns in the Lost River Range. Here the landscape is full of stark contrasts: the towering pines of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, vast empty deserts, rolling creeks and, of course, the state’s tallest mountains. Fortunately, you don’t have to climb the Borah to find this gem, although you will have to endure some elements.

Still, the trip to Fall Creek Falls is part of what makes it so special. The surprisingly easy 1.5-mile Fall Creek Waterfall Trail winds through terrain that varies greatly in such a short distance, taking you through wild, high mountain forests and exposed rocky sections before heading into some truly beautiful forest areas.

As you approach the falls and climb above 7,000 feet, the gentle rush of the water becomes louder, drawing you in like a magnet. As you cross a few creeks and tiptoe around some boulders, the trees open up into a small desert-style cave that is as perfect as they come.

And in autumn the sight is quite magical.

The immense waterfall plunges at least 100 feet over a series of rocky ledges, framed by jagged gorge walls that glisten in the sun. The water flows into the river and drains into a landscape so pristine that you can see straight to the bottom, where smooth stones lie beneath the surface.

You can enjoy the scenery from the official viewpoint or explore one of the side trails to find a new angle. This is not the kind of waterfall that attracts large crowds with its perfect symmetry. Instead, it’s a bit wild, a bit unpolished and complete Idahoand that’s exactly what makes it so spectacular. There’s a sense of real authenticity here – and it’s impossible not to love.

The beauty of Fall Creek Falls lies not only in the waterfall itself, but also in the surrounding area. It’s worth a visit in any season, but we love autumn more, when the surrounding foliage bursts into fiery colors that breathe new life into the waterfalls. The trees, which are mostly a mix of evergreens and poplars, begin to change color as the weather cools, leaving the leaves to form a patchwork of gold and green against Idaho’s signature blue sky.

For those willing to make the trek to this surprisingly overlooked region, the area around the falls offers its own year-round rewards.

The solitude here is about as far away from city life as you can get, and there are plenty of other routes to explore. The greater Lost River Valley has centuries of history to explore and some truly beautiful places for rugged outdoorsmen to get their boots dirty and cast a few lines. Be sure to take a moment to pause and enjoy panoramic views of the larger-than-life mountains looming in the distance!

If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of local wildlife during your walk: deer grazing quietly at the edge of the clearing or the flash of a hawk soaring overhead. Occasionally successful Borah summit climbers will detour here for a breather before returning to their hometown, but for the most part your only company will be the friendly locals.

After your hike, head back through Mackay for a bite to eat at 9 Peaks Restaurant or take another hike at nearby Moose Lake or the longer Fall Creek Trail before settling down for a good night’s sleep at a rustic and welcoming spot, like Wild Horse Creek Ranch .

East-Central Idaho may not have the fame of more well-known attractions further west or south, but for those willing to explore off the beaten path, the rewards are pretty sweet! The Fall Creek Waterfall Trail is just one example of the hidden gems waiting to be discovered all over the state if you look beyond the tourist hotspots, give in to your curiosity and enter the unknown.