Weekend Warrior's Guide to Hiking Near Idaho Falls: Trails for Every Level

For those just getting their hiking legs under them or looking for a gentle start to the weekend, the Snake River Greenbelt is your runway for success. This 5-mile paved trail might seem tame to hardcore hikers, but don't dismiss it – the morning light on the falls creates the kind of golden glow photographers dream about.

My go-to move? Hit the Heritage Trail section at sunrise with a thermos of coffee. The mist rising off the water creates an otherworldly atmosphere as you watch Idaho Falls wake up. For a bit more challenge without straying far from town, the Russ Freeman Park to Sunnyside Park extension adds some gentle elevation changes and fewer crowds.

Last summer during an unexpected 24-hour layover, I explored these trails with nothing but my hydration vest and a granola bar. The vest was perfect – enough water for a few hours without the bulk of my usual hiking pack. If you're traveling light like I was, it's a game-changer for quick adventures.

Just a 25-minute drive west of Idaho Falls sits one of the coolest geological features you've probably never heard of – Hell's Half Acre. This 2,000-year-old lava field covers a massive 66,000 acres, but don't worry, you won't be hiking all of it. The 1.8-mile interpretive loop trail gives you the greatest hits of this lunar landscape.

First time I stumbled upon this trail, I was actually lost trying to find another hike entirely. Best navigational error of my life. The black volcanic rock creates an otherworldly contrast against Idaho's blue skies, and the resilient wildflowers that somehow punch through the hardened lava are nothing short of miraculous.

Fair warning: this trail offers zero shade and the black rock turns this place into nature's oven by midday. I learned this lesson the hard way and now never attempt it without my cooling neck gaiter and plenty of water. Soak the gaiter in water before heading out, and it'll keep you from overheating in the intense reflected heat.

When I'm craving proper elevation gain without committing to an all-day epic, Kelly Canyon to Big Elk Creek is my go-to. Located about 30 minutes northeast of Idaho Falls, this area transforms from popular ski slopes in winter to hiking paradise in summer.

The 6-mile out-and-back trail follows an old logging road before connecting to single track that winds through aspen groves and pine forests. What makes this trail special is the creek crossings – I counted seven on my last hike. During early summer runoff, these can be challenging, which adds a fun technical element to an otherwise moderate hike.

My favorite stretch comes around mile 2.5 when the trail opens into a meadow absolutely exploding with wildflowers. Last June, I sat there for nearly an hour just taking in the riot of colors against the mountain backdrop. This spot is also where I field-tested my ultralight camp chair – at just over a pound, it's worth every ounce for those impromptu rest stops where you want to fully soak in the view.

The trail culminates at a natural pool that's perfect for a quick (very cold) dip before heading back. If you're like me and can't resist wild swimming, pack a quick-dry towel – it takes up minimal space and dries in minutes strapped to your pack on the return journey.

If you're looking for the crown jewel hike near Idaho Falls, look no further than Table Mountain. This challenging 11-mile round trip with 4,000 feet of elevation gain isn't for the faint of heart, but the payoff is unmatched: panoramic views of the Grand Tetons without the Grand Teton National Park crowds.

I'll be straight with you – this hike kicked my butt the first time. The trailhead starts at about 7,000 feet, and if you're coming from sea level like I often am, the altitude hits hard. Located about 1.5 hours from Idaho Falls in the Jedediah Smith Wilderness, it's worth the early morning drive to beat both the heat and afternoon thunderstorms.

The trail starts deceptively gentle through forest before the serious climbing begins. Around mile 3, you'll hit the infamous switchbacks – I counted 27 last time, but was too oxygen-deprived to guarantee accuracy. This section is where my trekking poles earned their keep, saving my knees and providing crucial stability on loose scree.

The final approach to the summit plateau involves a brief class 2 scramble that might make your palms sweat if you're not used to exposure. But once you top out onto that flat table summit at 11,106 feet with the Tetons standing tall across the valley – pure magic. I've flown over the Tetons countless times, but seeing them from this vantage point hits differently.

On my last ascent, temperatures dropped 30 degrees at the summit with wicked wind. My ultralight packable down jacket was a literal lifesaver – weighs nothing in your pack but provides crucial warmth when conditions change rapidly, which they always do in mountain environments.

Every good pilot knows the importance of post-flight maintenance, and the same applies to hiking. Idaho Falls might not be known as a culinary destination, but I've found some perfect spots to refuel and recover after hitting the trails.

For immediate recovery, I head straight to Snakebite Restaurant downtown. Their Idaho nachos – topped with pulled pork and huckleberry BBQ sauce – might not be traditional recovery food, but after burning 3,000+ calories on Table Mountain, all nutritional rules are suspended. Their craft beer selection features local Idaho breweries that perfectly complement those post-hike endorphins.

For muscle recovery, the little-known Heise Hot Springs about 30 minutes northeast of town is my secret weapon. These natural mineral springs stay at a consistent 104°F and work magic on sore hiking legs. After a particularly brutal day on the trails, I'll bring my massage therapy ball to work out specific knots before soaking. This compact little torture device targets deep tissue better than foam rollers and fits easily in any pack.

If you're making it a full weekend, grab breakfast at Villa Coffeehouse before your second day of hiking. Their huckleberry pancakes and strong coffee have fueled many of my alpine starts. The local tip? Ask for the breakfast burrito – it's not on the menu but is the perfect portable fuel if you're rushing to an early trailhead.