Families traveling through south central Idaho on Interstate 84 might enjoy a short detour to the Shoshone Falls and Dierkes Lake, located some 5 miles east of the city of Twin Falls. The drive is uncrowded and somewhat rural, and the falls can be reached in less than 10 minutes from US Highway 93.
Shoshone Falls is known as the Niagara Falls of the West and is certainly one of the more impressive views along the Snake River. The waterfalls are nearly 1500 feet wide with the water dropping 212 feet in a single fall as compared to Niagara which drops 176 feet.
The water that flows over the Shoshone Falls is controlled by Idaho Power by means of a dam located right above the falls. During irrigation season, much of the water is diverted away from the Shoshone Falls resulting in a somewhat less spectacular show. Late winter and up to early April are definitely the best times to view the falls, with the water gradually dwindling in volume as the irrigation season comes to a close.
So what’s in it for kids? The Shoshone Falls abuts the Shoshone Falls Park, a gently sloped city park with large grassy areas and lots of trees in a very secluded setting. The park boasts several scenic overlooks around the park (which kids seem to love exploring) hiking trails including some trails up to the rim, and playground equipment. Parents will appreciate the extra amenities including plenty of parking, restrooms, concession stands, pay phones, and covered picnic areas. The park is stroller and wheelchair friendly, clean, attractive, and uncrowded.
Shoshone Falls Park is open daily year round from 7 am to 9 pm. Entrance into the park is $3 per vehicle and $20 per bus.
Dierkes Lake
As your family leaves Shoshone Falls park, take a left turn at the sign that reads Dierkes Lake and follow the road which brings you directly to the lake parking lot.
Our family had never even heard of Dierkes Lake until a guy at the Visitor’s Center in Twin Falls mentioned it in passing. We were so glad he did! This charming lake and park is neatly situated in a small canyon with breathtaking views. For kids, there’s a great swimming hole complete with docks and life guards, canyon trails, more playground equipment, and a number of rock climbing areas. Our teens were very content to wander around the canyon, find spots to climb, and then finish off with a dip in the old fashioned swimming hole. The younger kids seem to enjoy the play equipment, wading in the shallow areas of the lake and playing in the sandy beach.
Parents will appreciate the covered picnic shelters, restrooms, and concession stand. There are also areas around Dierkes Lake where families can even fish.
Dierkes Lake is open year round and park admission is free.
So how do you find these two places? Check in at the Twin Falls Visitor’s Center near the Perrine Bridge as you enter Twin Falls via US 93. If the Visitor’s Center is closed, just proceed south on Blue Lakes Boulevard. Turn left (east) on Falls Blvd., drive about 3 miles, and then follow the signs to the Shoshone Falls.
