2 locations
Add Location
Full Listing
Show more
Cave
Last visited on 22 May 2016
Full Listing
Show more
Canyoneer, Hike, Rock Climb, Swim
Last visited on 22 May 2016
Kuna Caves
Kuna, Idaho
5.7 miles S of Kuna, IdahoThe Kuna Caves are underground lava tubes located in Kuna, Idaho. These lava tubes were formed when lava flowed freely underground and were left hollow when the volcano became extinct.
The Kuna Caves have one entrance. Spelunkers climb down a caged ladder at the entrance of the cave to descend into the lava tube. The decent is about 50 feet. The ladder and cave system are unmaintained so visitors should take safety precautions when exploring the Kuna Caves.
Once at the bottom of the cave the tunnel extends about a quarter mile to the north and a quarter mile to the south. Both directions have places where explorers can stand and walk and tighter places where explorers must crawl. The cave is a cool 56 degrees year round. Spelunkers should bring their own flashlights or lanterns.
This area is called the Kuna Caves because the single remaining cave used to be a part of a much larger system that is now inaccessible. The remaining cave system has graffiti and litter along the cave. Parking is available on the dirt road at the cave entrance.
Kuna Cave is an exciting lava tube to explore and enjoy climbing and crawling around in. Visitors and locals in Idaho can enjoy this unique adventure in the dusty desert.
Jump Creek
Marsing, Idaho
7.1 miles SW of Marsing, IdahoJump 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.
×
