Mesa Falls Scenic Byway

The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway begins where the Teton Scenic Byway reaches its northern end in Ashton, at the junction of U.S. 20 and Idaho 47. From there, the route travels through the town of Warm River toward its main attractions: the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls.

The Mesa Falls are the only major falls in Idaho not used for irrigation or hydroelectric projects, and as such maintain a look and feel of nature undisturbed. At 110 feet and 85 feet, respectively, the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls offer equally spectacular views in a beautiful forest setting. Both falls can be viewed in full, with the area surrounding the upper waterfall enhanced with paths and viewing areas that make it easily accessible to all. Though only about an hour’s driving time, the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is often a halfday’s journey, with travelers mesmerized by the spectacular display in the midst of a truly back-country setting. In addition, the historic Mesa Falls Lodge has been restored to its original splendor and is now open seasonally for visitor information.

Location
The southern end is at Idaho 47 in Ashton, northeast 12.4 miles to the old Bear Gulch Ski Area site, then northwest along Forest Service Route 294 to the northern end at U.S. 20. The rorthern end is an eastward turn off Hwy. 20 south of Last Chance in Island Park.

Length
28.7 miles. Allow 1 hour.

Roadway
Idaho 47 is a two-lane road. Forest Service Route 294 is closed in winter and becomes a Forest Service snowmobile route.

When to see it
In the winter the Forest Service road becomes one of many snowmobile trails in the area. If you have a snowmobile or crosscountry skis, winter is the time to go; if you don’t, there is no access. Spring through fall is great by car.

Attractions
Upper Mesa Falls; Lower Mesa Falls; Harriman State Park on U.S. 20; many trails for bikes, horses, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiles.

Camping
The Warm River Forest Service Campground is approximately 9 miles east of Ashton on the Warm River. The Grand View Forest Service Campground is located at the Lower Mesa Falls turnout.

Services
Full services in Ashton and Island Park.
Ashton Ranger District: (208) 652-7442;
Island Park Ranger District: (208) 558-7301

This is part of the online edition of Henry's Fork Country.

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