It’s always hard when spots are billed as a “best-kept secret” or “local favorite” – they won’t bear that title much longer after being described like that! Jump Creek Falls in Marsing was one of those places and I thought I should check it out, since it’s one of the closest waterfalls to Boise. The verdict? Worth a visit…if you’re already in the area. The 10-minute hike isn’t necessarily worth the hour’s drive from Boise and back in my opinion, but it’s still a hidden gem of a place…for now!

Want to make it out there yourself?  Follow these directions:

1. Set your GPS for the intersection of Jump Creek Road and Poison Creek Road outside Marsing.
2. Continue south on Jump Creek Road through the intersection as it immediately turns to gravel road, and take the right fork (the one with the “One lane bridge” sign).
3. Continue down the gravel road and when you come to the next fork at the pack it in, pack it out sign, go left toward the rocky canyon.
4. Road conditions permitting, follow the steep but short ramp down to the lower trailhead. Otherwise you can park at the upper lot and walk down, or follow the canyon rim trail.  There’s one easy creek crossing that might be a little more challenging in rainy years, but otherwise it’s a beginner’s hike.  The trailhead signs warn of rattlesnakes and poison ivy, though, so take care!