Upper Mesa Falls

Upper Mesa Falls is a large and beautiful waterfall located on the Henrys Fork of the Snake River in Eastern Idaho. Not too far from the world-class angler town of Island Park, this waterfall is a must-see for anyone in the area. There are several large viewing decks that get you quite close to the action. The decks hug the east bank of the waterfall and really allow you to get a close up view from the drop-off. While it would be great to have a viewing area from across the river, the rugged terrain simply does not allow it.

The 10-story tall waterfall is the only major waterfall on the Snake river to resist human control, along with its smaller sister Lower Mesa Falls downstream. Apparently the eruption of a super volcano, most likely located under Yellowstone National Park, created the sudden ledge.

A good-sized visitor center greets the tourists, and a nature trail allows them to get off of the pavement. There are several interpretive signs that highlight the local wildflowers and the types of animals you will find in Idaho. Rangers even have an information booth set up to provide Bear Aware tips; there are 20,000 black bears in the state along with other species. Day use picnic areas are provided as well. Some other nearby attractions include Henry's Lake, Island Park Reservoir, and Harriman State Park.