Hike Mesa Falls

I sat for a long time, listening to the thunderous roar, mesmerized by the massive curtain of falling water. I shared the view only with a lone photographer who wanted to catch the morning light on the falls, forming rainbows in the spray.

Upper Mesa Falls is easily accessible by a short stroll from the parking lot down paved paths. A boardwalk with railings provides the opportunity to get quite close to the brink of the falls, and view it from multiple angles. If the lighting is right (go in the morning) There will be a rainbow formed from the spray of the falls. It is definitely worth a stop if in the area.

Just 2 miles downstream is Lower Mesa falls, another fantastic waterfall that can be reached by a trail from Upper Mesa falls or viewed from a pullout area along the highway.

Hammock off of trees around Upper or Lower Falls. There are multiple spots with views, though some near Lower Falls require some scrambling on volcanic scree and the trees with the best views near Upper require climbing over the railing to access. Be warned: anything you do is at your own risk. The ultimate spot is between the railings themselves, but it takes a confident hammocker due to the close proximity to the cliff/falls. Please don't die. There are lots of spots along the river that are less sketchy where you can listen to the falls and not be disturbed by others.

While Mesa Falls lacks some of the backcountry vibes of more remote waterfalls, it doesn't require a huge time commitment and makes for a great stop on a road trip. Found in the Targhee National Forrest, there are an abundance of free places to camp in the area, as well as paid campgrounds for those looking for more amenities.

The early morning is the best time to visit as you are much less likely to encounter others.