Guided Half-Day Scenic Tour – Off The Beaten Path

This Guided Half-Day Scenic Tour – Off The Beaten Path offers a fascinating way to experience Idaho’s lesser-known sights. Priced at $99 per person, this 4-hour tour from Twin Falls takes you to five unique locations, including natural springs, dramatic gorges, and historic landmarks. With a small group of just seven people, the experience feels intimate and personalized, making it ideal for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Idaho’s landscape. The tour includes pickup from Twin Falls hotels and RV resorts, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes are covered, simplifying your planning.

Despite its brevity, this tour covers a diverse range of attractions that showcase the natural beauty and history of the region. The guide’s knowledge shines through, especially at key spots like the Box Canyon Springs Preserve and Hagerman Fossil Beds, where storytelling brings the landscape to life. A notable highlight is the stop at Balanced Rock, a striking natural formation carved by wind, standing 48 feet tall. The tour’s well-paced itinerary allows ample time to explore each site without feeling rushed, though it is most suited to those comfortable with walking short distances and spending time outdoors.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $99 per person for approximately 4 hours of sightseeing.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to seven participants for a more personalized experience.
• Diverse Attractions: Includes natural springs, gorges, fossils, and scenic overlooks.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from Twin Falls hotels and RV resorts is included, along with air-conditioned transportation.
• All Fees Included: No hidden costs; all admission fees and taxes are covered.

Visiting the Box Canyon Springs Preserve in Idaho

The tour kicks off at the Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, renowned for its spectacular natural springs flowing year-round. The short walk to the overlook offers a breathtaking view down into the canyon, where lush vegetation contrasts with the surrounding desert environment. Here, visitors can appreciate the vibrant ecosystem thriving in this part of the Great Basin Desert. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, and admission is included, making it easy to enjoy this scenic marvel without extra expense.

Driving Along the Thousand Springs Scenic Highway

Next, the tour takes a scenic drive along the Thousand Springs Scenic Highway. This route offers panoramic vistas of the Snake River and the Oregon Trail, a historically significant route for pioneers. Along the way, you’ll see roadside natural hot springs, waterfalls, and tranquil creeks, perfect for quick photos or simply soaking in the views. This 45-minute stop is free of charge and provides a chance to enjoy Idaho’s iconic landscape while learning about its history and geology.

Exploring Malad Gorge State Park’s Volcanic Features

Traveling to Malad Gorge State Park, visitors encounter a 250-foot-deep canyon shaped by volcanic activity and erosion. The receding Devil’s Washbowl waterfall, which once dropped 60 feet into the Snake River, now falls nearby, offering a glimpse into the area’s volcanic past. Visitors can take in spectacular views of the gorge and observe native wildlife. This stop lasts around 30 minutes, with admission included, and highlights Idaho’s volcanic landscape.

Discovering Fossils at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Hagerman Fossil Beds, where fossils from the Pliocene Epoch are displayed at the visitor center. Here, finds such as the Hagerman horse, mastodon, and ground sloth reveal Idaho’s prehistoric past. The exhibits and fossils showcase the largest fossil discovery from this era, dating back 3.5 million years. This 30-minute visit is free and offers a fascinating look into ancient life in the region.

Seeing Balanced Rock and the Surrounding Countryside

The tour proceeds to Balanced Rock, a formation standing 48 feet tall and weighing 40 tons. Wind erosion carved this natural sculpture, with a narrow base just under four feet long supporting the massive rock. The surrounding Idaho countryside in Castleford offers a peaceful setting, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. The 15-minute stop provides a close-up look at this iconic formation, with free admission.

Exploring Balanced Rock County Park and the Rhyolite Canyons

Before heading back, travelers visit Balanced Rock County Park, where they can see massive rhyolite volcanic formations creating a spectacular slot canyon. The creek flowing through adds a tranquil touch, and the area is rich with wildlife such as beavers and marmots. Visitors might also spot “mud swallows” nesting on the canyon walls. This 15-minute stop is free and offers a relaxed outdoor experience amid geological marvels.

Viewing the Oregon Trail Overlook and Deep Wagon Ruts

At the Oregon Trail Overlook, guests get a sweeping view of three miles of the historic wagon route. The deep wagon wheel ruts carved into the landscape serve as a reminder of the pioneers’ arduous journey across Idaho. This 15-minute stop is free and provides a meaningful connection to the region’s trailblazing history.

Crossing the I. B. Perrine Memorial Bridge and Evel Knievel’s Jump Ramp

The tour features a visit to the I. B.. Perrine Memorial Bridge, spanning 1,500 feet over the Snake River Canyon at 486 feet above the river. Known as the only B.A.S.E. jumping site in the U.S. where jumps are legal without a permit, it attracts jumpers worldwide. Close by, the famous Evel Knievel jump ramp from 1976 remains accessible via a paved path or dirt road. This stop offers spectacular views and a dose of daredevil history in about 15 minutes, with free admission.

The Snake River Canyon and the Evel Knievel Jump Site

The Evel Knievel jump attempt is a notable part of Idaho’s stunt history. Although the jump was unsuccessful, the ramp is still visible from the Perrine Bridge, and visitors can learn about Knievel’s daring attempt. This site provides an exciting look into Idaho’s adventurous spirit and is accessible via a walking path or vehicle. It’s a brief but memorable stop that enriches the tour’s mix of natural and historic sites.

The Snake River Canyon Visitor Center

The tour ends at the Snake River Canyon Visitor Center, where visitors can explore photos, videos, and exhibits about the region’s natural parks and historic sites. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of the Perrine Bridge, Snake River, and the Evel Knievel jump site. Staff can assist with maps, guides, and local recommendations, making this a practical and informative conclusion to the tour.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Exploration of Idaho’s Hidden Gems

This Guided Half-Day Scenic Tour offers an excellent overview of Idaho’s off-the-beaten-path attractions. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing the guide to provide detailed insights and personalized attention. The stops at Box Canyon, Malad Gorge, and Balanced Rock highlight the region’s geological diversity, while the fossil sites and historic overlooks add depth to the experience.

While the tour covers a lot in a short time, it is especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor scenery, geology, and history. The $99 price point offers good value, considering the inclusion of admission fees, bottled water, and transportation. If you prefer a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning, this tour delivers. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a compact yet comprehensive snapshot of Idaho’s natural and historic treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops involve walking short distances, making it accessible for many.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes bottled water, all fees and taxes, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Snacks and restroom facilities on board are not included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancelations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is there flexibility during the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but the small group size allows the guide to tailor the experience to the group’s interests within the scheduled stops.

What makes this tour different from other Idaho excursions?
It focuses on less-visited attractions, combining natural beauty with historic sites, and emphasizes personalized attention in a small group setting.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, Big Green Adventure Tours, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.