Idaho Is Home To A Breathtaking Destination Best Known As The 'Niagara Of The West'

Of all the many amazing waterfalls across North America, none hold such an exalted place in popular imagination than the mighty Niagara Falls. Lying between the United States and Canada and connecting two of the continent's famed Great Lakes, Niagara Falls' thunderous majesty provides memorable trips on both sides of the border. And with so many must-see attractions near Niagara Falls that aren't the waterfalls themselves, the Niagara Falls region is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular natural wonders in both the U.S. and Canada. Plus, the must-see tourist attractions on both the American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls add a whole travel itinerary on top of sightseeing to your trip. 

But as famous as Niagara Falls (justifiably) is, it is far from the only spectacular waterfall in North America. West of the Mississippi River, the epic and rugged landscape of the American West has its own collection of awe-inspiring natural wonders, including waterfalls that rival even the mighty Niagara. For fans of the vast expanse and roaring cascade of Niagara Falls, one particular western waterfall stands out. Though it's unjustly underrated compared to similar natural wonders, Idaho's magnificent Shoshone Falls more than lives up to its lofty nickname as the "Niagara of the West." 

Shoshone Falls is a major feature of the formidable Snake River of Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. As one of the largest tributaries of the Columbia River, the Snake River forges several magnificent gorges, canyons, and river valleys across the stunning landscape of America's Mountain West. But even in such an exalted company, Shoshone Falls is a truly impressive sight at full strength. Measuring 212 feet tall and 900 feet wide, Shoshone Falls is even taller than the famously titanic Niagara Falls. In fact, Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States. 

There is a bit of a catch, however. To get a full Shoshone Falls experience, you need to see it at the right time of year. The amount of water cascading down the falls varies from season to season, depending on both natural and human factors. On the natural side, much of the waterfall's currents draw from snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. Water levels tend to be highest in the spring when the winter snowfields begin to melt and hit their nadir in the autumn when the falls can become almost entirely dry. On the human side, portions of the falls are sometimes diverted for farmland and irrigation, particularly in the summer. 

But when Shoshone Falls is at full strength, its roaring cascade easily challenges the power of Niagara Falls. And even if you visit during the dry season, the vast river gorge is still impressive enough to justify the trip (and provide ample sightseeing opportunities). With abundant, breathtaking scenery no matter the season, Shoshone Falls might be Idaho's top natural wonder and one of the most impressive sights of the American West as a whole.

Shoshone Falls is not only a top tourist destination in Idaho. It's one of the state's more accessible attractions as well. The falls and surrounding gorge are located near the city of Twin Falls, about two hours away from Boise. When Shoshone Falls is at full strength and the surrounding landscape is beginning to bloom from its winter nap, Twin Falls is perhaps the best destination for a spring vacation in Idaho. Even better, Shoshone Falls offers much more to visitors than mere scenic viewing experiences. You'll get plenty of those, to be sure. But Shoshone Falls also includes lovely picnic spots, exhilarating hiking trails, ramps for boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding, and even swimming areas. 

Access to Shoshone Falls costs a mere $5 per vehicle, all while requiring only a short and convenient drive from Twin Falls. From the parking area, it's only a quick 0.6-mile hike to the main Shoshone Falls observation deck. If you're feeling more vigorous, you can explore the full 11.3 miles of the Canyon Rim Trail from Shoshone Falls and experience much more of the entire river gorge and surrounding Snake River landscape. Regardless of whether you opt for a quick photo op or a lengthy, challenging hike, Shoshone Falls is an unforgettable experience that may even surpass the wonder and majesty of its more famous doppelganger to the east.