Upper Mesa Falls — Local services in Warm River

Upper Mesa Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest in southeastern Idaho. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and impressive flow, Upper Mesa Falls is a highlight of the region and a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and visitors seeking to experience the grandeur of Idaho's natural landscapes.

Geography and Features:

Height and Flow: Upper Mesa Falls cascades over a rugged basalt cliff with a height of approximately 114 feet (35 meters). The waterfall is characterized by its powerful and wide flow, creating a dramatic display of water as it plunges into the rocky pool below.

Scenic Setting: The falls are situated in a picturesque canyon carved by the Henrys Fork of the Snake River. The surrounding landscape includes lush forests, rocky outcrops, and the meandering river, which enhance the visual appeal of the falls. Access and Viewing:

Viewing Area: Upper Mesa Falls is easily accessible from a dedicated viewing area and a network of trails. A well-maintained path leads visitors to several viewpoints where they can enjoy stunning vistas of the falls and the surrounding scenery. The primary viewing area provides a close-up view of the falls, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its grandeur.

Trail Access: The area around Upper Mesa Falls features several trails that offer opportunities for hiking and exploring. The falls are part of the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, which provides scenic driving routes and access to other natural attractions in the area. Recreational Opportunities:

Photography: Upper Mesa Falls is a fantastic location for photography, with its dramatic cascades, misty spray, and picturesque setting. The falls are particularly striking during different times of the day, with sunlight creating beautiful reflections and rainbows in the mist.

Picnicking: The surrounding area has designated picnic spots where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the views of the falls and the surrounding natural beauty. Flora and Fauna:

Vegetation: The area around Upper Mesa Falls is characterized by dense forests of coniferous trees, including lodgepole pine and spruce. The lush vegetation adds to the overall scenic charm of the waterfall. Wildlife: The region is home to various wildlife species, including birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger animals such as deer. Birdwatchers may spot species like osprey and eagles near the falls. Seasonal Considerations:

Spring and Summer: During the spring and early summer, Upper Mesa Falls is particularly impressive due to the snowmelt feeding the river, resulting in a robust and powerful flow. The surrounding wildflowers and greenery also add to the vibrant beauty of the area.

Fall and Winter: In the fall, the foliage around the falls changes colors, providing a beautiful contrast to the cascading water. In the winter, the area can be covered in snow and ice, creating a serene and frosty landscape. However, access may be more challenging during winter months.

Overall Experience: Upper Mesa Falls offers a captivating and awe-inspiring natural experience, with its powerful cascades and scenic surroundings. Whether you're visiting for the stunning views, recreational activities, or simply to enjoy the tranquility of the area, Upper Mesa Falls is a must-see destination that showcases the natural...

This is such a beautiful stop. There is a nice footpath and overhangs that get you to a location that is right at the falls. It is well cared for. Also, the lodge there which was made in the early 1900s is very beautiful. You should go in and look around at the old workmanship. The 1 Mile trail hike down to the lower falls is also nice and I would recommend it. He gets you closer to the lower falls than you would from the parking lot. The only negative part here is you need to have $5 cash or check in order to park in the parking lot. There is no Cash machine or any way to get that once you are there. So you have to bring it with you. A National Parks pass...

Our weekday visit to Mesa Falls, specifically the upper falls, was uncrowded. We made a delightful detour on our way to Salt Lake City and were pleasantly surprised by this wonderful and highly recommended attraction.

Please note the following: A self-check-in process requires exact cash of $5. You'll need to write down your vehicle details, place the cash in an envelope, and drop it in the provided box. Entry is free if you have an annual national park pass. Small trails are available in the area if you have extra time.

Public restrooms are available, though they are low...