Jump Creek
Marsing, Idaho
| GPS: |
43°28'52.1"N 116°55'28.0"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Idaho |
Restrooms Waterfalls
Canyoneer, Hike, Rock Climb, and Swim
Jump Creek Falls is a surprising desert oasis in the Owyhee canyonlands southwest of Marsing, Idaho — a beautiful 60-foot waterfall pouring into a clear pool, tucked into a lush, rocky canyon that feels worlds away from the surrounding sagebrush high desert. Managed by the BLM and drawing more than 40,000 visitors a year, it's one of southwestern Idaho's most beloved short hikes and swimming spots.
The payoff comes fast. An easy trail of only about half a mile round trip leads up the canyon — a little rock-hopping and wading may be required — to the base of the falls, where a refreshing pool invites a cool dip on a hot day. The canyon is draped in water birch and red-osier dogwood, alive with birds and greenery, and there's also a Falls Overlook trail for those who'd rather stay high and dry. Rock climbers come for the canyon walls, too.
A few things to know. Poison ivy grows thick in spots along the creek and trail, so learn to spot it and give it room. The recreation area's posted hours are strictly enforced (due to past problems), and the lower parking area is closed in winter, roughly November through March. As always, pack out everything to protect this fragile desert canyon.
Spring and early summer are the most beautiful, when the falls run full and the canyon is greenest; summer is prime for swimming. To get there from the Marsing area, follow Highway 95 past the US-95 junction, turn onto Cemetery Road and then Jump Creek Road, and follow the signs to the gravel parking area. Bring water shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water, and enjoy one of Idaho's most rewarding little waterfall hikes.
More Information
Jump Creek Falls
Wow! I’m a guest blogger on Don’t Get Bored! I’m just tickled by that for a few reasons. First, because last June when I moved to Kuna from…
http://dontgetboredinidaho.blogspot.com/2011/04/jump-creek-falls.htmlBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
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- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Marsing, Idaho
- Head west on ID-55 S/Main St toward Front StContinue to follow ID-55 S(1.9 mi)
- Continue onto US-95 N (1.9 mi)
- Turn left toward Cemetery Rd (0.1 mi)
- Continue onto Cemetery Rd (1.0 mi)
- Turn left onto S Jump Creek Rd (3.5 mi)
- Turn right toward Jump Creek Rd (0.2 mi)
- Continue onto Jump Creek Rd (0.2 mi)
- Keep right to continue on S Jump CreekDestination will be on the left(0.9 mi)
Southwest of Marsing, Idaho
From Boise, take Interstate 84 West to the Nampa exit for Highway 55 (Exit 33A). Follow Highway 55 through Marsing and on to the junction with US-95. Continue 1½ miles past the junction and turn left onto Cemetery Road. Turn left at the T-intersection with a STOP sign. The road becomes Jump Creek Road as it continues south. Just after passing under power transmission lines, the road curves right, through private land – stay on the roadway as it curves back to the left toward the entry to the recreation area.
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