Southern Idaho is the perfect stop along the way to Yellowstone National Park! Did you know Twin Falls, located centrally in south Idaho, was once on top of the hot spot that makes Yellowstone active? As the world moved, so did we, but there are plenty of sights to see from the previous volcanic action all around the Magic Valley to get you ready for Yellowstone. Enjoy viewing gorgeous waterfalls in the Snake River Canyon, see caves and slot canyons, and enjoy tasty cuisine along the way!
The Yellowstone hotspot was responsible for large scale volcanism in Idaho and other surrounding states. This geological phenomenon is responsible for many of the features you’ll enjoy along your road trip.
Twin Falls
Start exploring in Twin Falls, the largest city in Southern Idaho. The Snake River Canyon cuts through the north side of town providing gorgeous views of the river below. Some incredible spot to see on the Snake River are the Perrine Bridge (located next to the Twin Falls Visitor’s Center,) Shoshone Falls, Dierke’s Lake, Perrine Coulee, and Auger Falls.
Shoshone Falls is a 212 foot waterfall that rages in the spring, and flows calmly in the summer. It is higher than Niagara Falls and is quite a sight to be seen. There are many opportunities to explore the park like walking up the Canyon Rim Trail for multiple views of the falls, and plenty of spots to sit down and enjoy a picnic.
Perrine Coulee is another waterfall located above Centennial Waterfront Park. At Centennial Waterfront Park you can rent kayaks (on-site seasonally) and explore the Snake River with paddles. You can also zip-line through the canyon here (also seasonal.) Auger Falls Park and waterfall are just down the road from Centennial Park. This hike along the river is about a 2 mile walk where you will pass waterfalls and eventually get to Auger Falls, a riverbed waterfall that surges through the lava rocks.
Grab food on the Canyon Rim at Canyon Crest Dining or at Elevation 486. Both have a patio overlooking the Snake River. The food at both restaurants is sourced locally and tastes so delicious you’ll want to visit more than once on your trip! There are hotels within minutes of the Snake River Canyon and these two exquisite restaurants are close to the Fairfield Inn & Suites and the TownePlace Inn. Both hotels generally have great rates, making them affordable yet luxurious hotels. Twin Falls also has many Airbnb options for larger groups.
Mammoth Cave
Tour a hidden underground world at Idaho’s Mammoth Cave near Shoshone, where visitors can walk through one of the largest volcanic caves open to the public in Southern Idaho. While exploring the property, guests can also experience the Shoshone Bird Museum and the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History, both filled with fascinating collections of fossils, wildlife displays, cultural artifacts, gemstones, and natural history exhibits from around the world.
Craters of the Moon
Continue making your way northeast for your final Southern Idaho destination; Craters of the Moon! This National Monument is truly out of this world! Astronauts have practiced Moon landings here, and you’ll see why. The entire park’s surface is sharp, black lava rock. There are many nicely paved trails that are clearly marked to hike throughout the park. Enjoy hiking up the Inferno Cone to see 360 views of the mountains and the volcanos!
There are a couple of other fun stops on the way to Yellowstone like the sand dunes in St. Anthony or Mesa Falls! Bear World is also located just before West Yellowstone. Enjoy the rest of your road trip up to Yellowstone National Park!