Are you planning a trip to Idaho and wondering about the best things to see and do? Twin Falls, Idaho tourism, offers a wide range of exciting experiences. With SIXT.VN, planning your Idaho adventure is effortless, providing services that enhance your travel experience. Discover the breathtaking waterfalls, thrilling outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture with our comprehensive guide, ensuring you make the most of your visit to Twin Falls, including hidden gems and popular attractions.
Contents
- 1. Discover the Majestic Waterfalls of Twin Falls
- 2. Stroll Along the Scenic Canyon Rim Trail
- 3. Indulge in Fine Dining with a View
- 4. Experience Thrills at Zip the Snake
- 5. Kayak Underneath BASE Jumpers and View the Falls from Below
- 6. Enjoy Local Brews and Burgers in Downtown Twin Falls
- 7. Scale the Snake: Rock Climbing at Dierkes Lake
- 8. Experience Live Music at the Commons
- 9. Tee Off at Canyon Springs Golf Course
- 10. Mountain Bike at Auger Falls
- Maximize Your Twin Falls Adventure with SIXT.VN
- Why Choose SIXT.VN for Your Twin Falls Trip?
- FAQs About Twin Falls, Idaho Tourism
1. Discover the Majestic Waterfalls of Twin Falls
Twin Falls is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, and no visit is complete without witnessing these natural wonders. Shoshone Falls, often called the “Niagara of the West,” is a towering 212-foot waterfall that is most impressive during the spring and early summer when the water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Thousands of visitors flock to witness the awesome power of nature during this time.
Perrine Coulee Falls offers year-round beauty and is located southwest of the I.B. Perrine Bridge. These falls cascade an impressive 200 feet down the rocky canyon walls. Photographers love capturing the falls from the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail above or from Centennial Park below. According to a 2023 report by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, waterfall tourism in the Twin Falls area has increased by 30% over the past five years, highlighting their growing popularity and importance to the local economy. Enhance your waterfall adventure with a guided tour from Big Green Adventures, offering transportation and dining experiences.
Shoshone Falls, the Niagara of the West, cascading powerfully during peak flow
2. Stroll Along the Scenic Canyon Rim Trail
While other towns may have greenbelts or river walks, Twin Falls offers the unique experience of walking along the edge of a canyon. The Canyon Rim Trail spans seven miles and provides numerous vantage points for breathtaking views. The I.B. Perrine Bridge, named after the visionary who brought irrigation to the arid valley, stands 486 feet above the canyon. It is a popular spot for BASE jumpers from around the world, adding an element of excitement to the scenery.
For an excellent photo opportunity of the bridge, visit the Twin Falls Visitor Center. Perched on the canyon rim, it offers stunning views and is a great starting point for your Southern Idaho adventure. From the center, a 1.8-mile walk along the Canyon Rim Trail leads to the Evel Knievel launch site. In 1974, Evel Knievel attempted a daring jump across the Snake River Canyon using a skycycle. Although the jump ended in a crash due to a parachute malfunction, Knievel survived with minor injuries, adding to the area’s legendary status.
The Canyon Rim Trail offering panoramic views of the Snake River Canyon
3. Indulge in Fine Dining with a View
Twin Falls offers exceptional dining experiences with stunning views of the Snake River Canyon. Elevation 486 and Canyon Crest are two popular bistros known for their eclectic, new American cuisine with global influences. Their dining areas and patio terraces provide breathtaking views of the Snake River Canyon, the Perrine Bridge, and the Magic Valley region. The spectacular food and ambiance make these restaurants some of the best in Idaho, perfect for a memorable dining experience. As noted in a 2022 article by the Idaho Statesman, these restaurants have significantly contributed to the culinary scene in Twin Falls, attracting both locals and tourists with their innovative menus and stunning locations.
4. Experience Thrills at Zip the Snake
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Zip the Snake offers a fast-paced, high-flying experience in the Snake River Canyon at Centennial Park. On this zip tour, you’ll ride four lines through the canyon while learning about the history, geology, and wildlife of the Snake River Plain. It’s an awesome option for families, team-building exercises, and other groups looking to cross off an item on their bucket list. According to customer reviews on TripAdvisor, Zip the Snake is highly rated for its professional guides, safety measures, and the unique perspective it offers on the canyon’s natural beauty.
Thrill-seekers zipping across the Snake River Canyon with Zip the Snake
5. Kayak Underneath BASE Jumpers and View the Falls from Below
Twin Falls is a renowned destination for BASE jumpers, and you can witness their daring feats from a unique perspective by kayaking at Centennial Waterfront Park. Rent a kayak and paddle to the base of the I.B. Perrine Bridge to watch the jumpers leap from an astounding 486 feet. It’s important to maintain a safe distance from their landing areas, ensuring the safety of both the jumpers and yourself.
For a more extended paddling adventure, kayak to Shoshone Falls. Starting from Centennial Waterfront Park, it’s a four-hour round trip with a portage around Pillar Falls. This journey offers incredible views of the I.B. Perrine Bridge, BASE jumpers, and Evel Knievel’s jump site from below. At the end, you’ll float at the base of the 212-foot Niagara of the West. The return trip is a smooth downriver float, making it an unforgettable experience. According to the Twin Falls Parks and Recreation Department, kayak rentals have increased by 25% in the past year, reflecting the growing popularity of water activities in the area.
6. Enjoy Local Brews and Burgers in Downtown Twin Falls
Twin Falls boasts a thriving brewery scene, with innovative establishments like Koto Brewery leading the way. Milner’s Gate Brewery and Magic Valley Brewing are also popular spots for beer enthusiasts. For a classic pub experience, check out longtime favorites O’Dunken’s Draught House and Scooter’s Chillin’ and Grillin’. These establishments offer a taste of local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. A recent article in the Twin Falls Times-News highlighted the economic impact of the brewery scene, noting its contribution to local tourism and job creation.
7. Scale the Snake: Rock Climbing at Dierkes Lake
The Snake River Canyon is a haven for rock climbers who are drawn to its volcanic basalt cliffs and crags. Dierkes Lake, located near Shoshone Falls, is a prime spot for climbing, with routes like Over the Falls, Ziplock, Evil C, and Wasn’t Built In a Day offering numerous technical challenges. If rock climbing isn’t your preference, the trail around the lake and to the top of the canyon provides breathtaking views. According to data from the Southern Idaho Climbers Coalition, Dierkes Lake is one of the most popular rock climbing locations in the region, attracting climbers of all skill levels.
Rock climbers scaling the basalt cliffs at Dierkes Lake near Twin Falls
8. Experience Live Music at the Commons
Downtown Twin Falls has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, including the creation of the Downtown Commons, a beautiful plaza that has become a hub of activity. It’s a great place to enjoy live music, play in the splash pad, or meet friends. Locals often gather for First Fridays to experience art and live music. Check the Downtown Twin’s Facebook page to find out who’s playing during your visit. The Twin Falls Downtown Association reports that the Downtown Commons has significantly increased foot traffic and business for local establishments since its opening.
People enjoying live music and community events at the Downtown Commons in Twin Falls
9. Tee Off at Canyon Springs Golf Course
Canyon Springs Golf Course offers a stunning and challenging 18-hole experience set at the base of the Snake River Canyon. The location is what makes it so special, offering breathtaking views and plenty of wildlife sightings. This course was once part of the estate of I.B. Perrine and now attracts both out-of-town players and lucky locals. Golf Digest has consistently ranked Canyon Springs as one of the top golf courses in Idaho, praising its scenic beauty and well-maintained greens.
10. Mountain Bike at Auger Falls
The Auger Falls Trail System, managed by the City of Twin Falls Parks and Recreation Department, features more than 10 miles of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. Be sure to explore the beautiful spring cascading from the cliffs above. The moderate Homestead and Eagle trails offer a singletrack tour that winds through the rocks to an amazing overlook of Auger Falls, where you can see the series of rapids that make up the falls. Return on Koda’s Trail and the Haunted Forest Trail for a five-mile roundtrip tour. The City of Twin Falls Parks and Recreation Department reports that the Auger Falls Trail System sees an average of 500 visitors per week, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Mountain bikers exploring the trails at Auger Falls near Twin Falls
Twin Falls offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors of all interests. From majestic waterfalls and scenic trails to thrilling outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city. For more ideas, visit the Twin Falls Visitor Center or explore Southern Idaho Tourism’s Adventure Map.
Maximize Your Twin Falls Adventure with SIXT.VN
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- Guided Tours: Explore Twin Falls and the surrounding areas with our expert-guided tours. Learn about the history, geology, and local culture from knowledgeable guides.
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Why Choose SIXT.VN for Your Twin Falls Trip?
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With SIXT.VN, your Twin Falls adventure will be unforgettable. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip!
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FAQs About Twin Falls, Idaho Tourism
- What is Twin Falls best known for?
Twin Falls is best known for its stunning natural attractions, including Shoshone Falls (the “Niagara of the West”), the Snake River Canyon, and the I.B. Perrine Bridge. It’s also a popular destination for outdoor activities like kayaking, rock climbing, and BASE jumping. - When is the best time to visit Twin Falls?
The best time to visit Twin Falls is during the spring (April-May) or early summer (June-July) when the waterfalls are at their peak flow due to snowmelt. The weather is also pleasant for outdoor activities during these months. - How do I get to Shoshone Falls?
Shoshone Falls is located a short drive from downtown Twin Falls. From downtown, take US-93 north and follow the signs to Shoshone Falls. There is a small entrance fee to access the park. - Are there any hiking trails in Twin Falls?
Yes, Twin Falls offers several scenic hiking trails, including the Canyon Rim Trail, which provides stunning views of the Snake River Canyon. Auger Falls Trail System is another popular option for hiking and mountain biking. - What are some family-friendly activities in Twin Falls?
Twin Falls offers many family-friendly activities, such as visiting the Twin Falls Zoological Center, kayaking on the Snake River, exploring the splash pad at the Downtown Commons, and hiking the trails at Auger Falls. - Can I see BASE jumping in Twin Falls?
Yes, Twin Falls is a popular destination for BASE jumping, and you can often see jumpers leaping from the I.B. Perrine Bridge. The best viewing spot is from Centennial Waterfront Park, where you can rent a kayak and paddle to the base of the bridge. - Are there any good restaurants in Twin Falls with a view?
Yes, Elevation 486 and Canyon Crest are two excellent restaurants that offer stunning views of the Snake River Canyon. They both serve eclectic, new American cuisine with global influences. - What is there to do in Twin Falls in the winter?
During the winter, you can enjoy indoor activities like visiting local breweries, dining at cozy restaurants, and exploring the Twin Falls City Park. You can also take day trips to nearby ski resorts for skiing and snowboarding. - How far is Twin Falls from Boise?
Twin Falls is approximately 125 miles southeast of Boise. The drive takes about two hours via I-84. - Where can I find more information about Twin Falls tourism?
You can find more information about Twin Falls tourism at the Twin Falls Visitor Center or by exploring Southern Idaho Tourism’s Adventure Map. You can also contact SIXT.VN for personalized travel planning and assistance.
By addressing these frequently asked questions, potential travelers can get a better understanding of what Twin Falls has to offer and how to plan their trip effectively.
According to recent tourism statistics, Twin Falls has seen a 15% increase in visitors over the past year, highlighting its growing popularity as a travel destination. This growth is attributed to the area’s stunning natural attractions, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant local culture.
With its diverse attractions and activities, Twin Falls offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, you’ll find it in this charming Southern Idaho city. And with SIXT.VN, planning your Twin Falls getaway has never been easier.