Upper Mesa Falls
4.9(449)google
WaterfallScenic LookoutPhoto Spot
Overview
Upper Mesa Falls is a waterfall on the Henrys Fork in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Upstream from Lower Mesa Falls, it is roughly 16 miles (26 km) away from Ashton, Idaho. Upper Mesa Falls is roughly 114 feet (35 m) high and 200 feet (61 m) wide.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration1.5-2.5 hours
Best TimeSummer from June to September offers complete highway access before winter snows close the scenic byway to wheeled vehicles. The absolute golden hour is between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM; overhead morning sun interacts perfectly with the massive misty spray from the thunderous 114-foot-high drop, casting a brilliant, permanent double rainbow.
Getting ThereTucked inside the Targhee National Forest along the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway; a car is mandatory. From Ashton, drive north on ID-47 N for roughly 14 miles, following the large brown park signs. The state historic site provides an expansive, fully paved paid vehicle parking lot connected directly to the boardwalk loop for a 3-minute stroll to the lip.
Travel Tips
- The wooden canyon boardwalk strings encounter perpetual heavy mist and develop slick micro-algae layers; high-traction footwear is required and climbing rails is banned.
- The USFS enforces a strict complete drone ban across the entire chasm zone; the surrounding forest harbors black bears, requiring hikers to carry active spray.
- The historic log visitor center operates on independent seasonal mid-week days; pack exact dollar currency bills for the self-pay vehicle entrance envelopes.
Reviews
Positive
- The 114-foot massive waterfall roaring through a deep volcanic canyon offers unparalleled visual and auditory majesty.
- The wooden boardwalk wrap is impeccably maintained, featuring wide accessible ramps that lead right over the brink.
- The historic log cabin lodge functions as an excellent visitor center, packed with authentic geological and wildlife exhibits.
- Entry is incredibly cheap per vehicle, escaping commercial kitsch to preserve deep, pristine natural serenity.
Heads up
- The location is remote; reaching it requires a lengthy mountain drive, and heavy winter snow causes rigid seasonal closures.
- Outside of standard water bottles in the lodge, there are zero hot food vendors inside, requiring guests to pack lunches.
- While the mist looks beautiful under afternoon sun, it creates a breeding ground for swarms of tiny bugs near the decks.
- The main parking lot fills up quickly on summer weekends, and a lack of parking staff can cause minor gridlocks.