Upper and Lower Mesa Falls

Between the town of Ashton, Idaho and Harriman State Park, there are two magnificent waterfalls on Henry's Fork of the Snake River.   Upper Mesa Falls is about 115 feet high and 200 feet wide.  Lower Mesa Falls is smaller with about a 65 feet drop.  It consists of a series of cascading waterfalls which are beautiful.    

These falls can be accessed following the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway which runs east of US 20, the main highway between Ashton and West Yellowstone, Montana.  All of these roads are paved.

From Ashton, drive east through town on Main Street and then continue for about 15 miles passing through the two small towns of Marysville and Warm River.  The Lower Mesa Falls is to the west of the road.   There is an overlook on the Byway.  In addition, there is a short hike available which provides a wonderful view of the falls.  This is an easy hike of about 2 miles round trip with minimal elevation changes.  

Upper Mesa Falls is a short distance further north on the Byway.  There is a very nice boardwalk for exploring along the rim of the falls along with a large parking area and a historic Forest Service building.

If starting from the Harriman State Park area, drive southeast on the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway for about 13 miles before arriving at the Upper Mesa Falls parking area.  

It was very exciting to have explores this area 50 years ago.  No boardwalk or handrailing existed at that time.  You could walk to the edge of the falls and dangle your feet over the edge.  Very exciting!

Upper Mesa Falls

Lower Mesa Falls