Jump Creek Falls: A Hidden Gem in Idaho

Jump Creek Falls is a little-known oasis in the Owyhee Dessert, southwest of Marsing and about an hour’s drive from Boise. The trail to Jump Creek Falls is an easy out-and-back half-mile hike into a canyon along a creek bed. You follow a well-worn path along Jump Creek until you reach the waterfall. 

The view of the 60-foot Jump Creek Falls is certainly worth the hike. It’s beautiful, and during the summer, the base of the falls is a great swimming hole. 

Once you are done cooling off, you can hike back the same way you came or take the longer scenic route that takes you along the edge of the rock walls up to the top of the falls. This can add as much as 2 miles to the hike. Heads up: In the summer, it can be unbearably hot. 

I have been to Jump Creek many times. Growing up in Canyon County, Idaho, it was a popular spot for a summer cool-off. A big boulder near the pool at the base of the falls is great for lounging on if you can scramble to the top.  

Several picnic areas are near the parking area, next to the creek bed where the only shade trees are is a popular spots for families.  Keep an eye peeled for rattlesnakes. They are definitely around. 

Jump Creek is a great day trip from the Boise area or the perfect starting point for a tour of the beautiful Owyhee country.  

How to get to Jump Creek Falls

From Boise, take Interstate 84 West to the Nampa exit for Highway 55 (Exit 33A). Follow Highway 55 through Marsing to the junction with US-95. Continue 1½ miles past the junction and turn left onto Cemetery Road. At the T-intersection with a STOP sign, turn left onto Jump Creek Road. Head through the Poison Creek intersection; when the road turns to gravel, take a right and cross the cattle guard. This public route passes through private property—please stay on the main road and respect private landowners.

How long does it take to visit?

You could spend as little as a half-hour here or extend your visit to several hours. 

Other things to do nearby?

While in the area, check out Celebration Park, where you can see hundreds of ancient Native American petroglyphs and incredible views of the Snake River.  

Sands Basin Wild Horse Management Area is also super fun to visit and not well known, even by locals. 

Across the border in Oregon, Leslie Gulch is about two hours from the falls but offers plenty of beautiful desert views.