It’s time! The snow is melting and the high desert is starting to bloom. Hagerman and the surrounding area becomes a beautiful spot for springtime adventure. Next to the Snake River, the town is surrounded by natural beauty, and in spring, the area wakes up in the best way. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or soaking in the sight of blooming camas lilies, there’s no shortage of things to do around here once the temperatures start rising and it’s officially spring in Hagerman.
1. Waterfall Chasing
Spring runoff turns the Hagerman Valley into waterfall central. The Thousand Springs many waterfalls gush straight out of the canyon walls, creating stunning, curtain-like falls. Malad will be the largest with spring run off, but make sure to see Lemmon Falls, Minie Miller, Niagara Springs and it’s definitely worth the drive to see Southern Idaho’s crown jewel – Shoshone Falls. Box Canyon is another must-see — it’s home to one of the largest springs in North America. The short hike down leads to surreal blue pools with a waterfall that feels like something out of a fairytale. Spring is a great time to visit, while temperatures are cool.
2. Explore Gooding’s Little City of Rocks
Just a short drive from Hagerman, the Little City of Rocks near Gooding is like stepping into another world. This maze of ancient volcanic formations and hoodoos is especially beautiful in spring. The wildflowers start popping up between the rocks and there is a stream that runs quietly through the rocky area. It’s a peaceful, rarely crowded, and perfect place for hiking, exploring, or just climbing around like a kid again.
3. Camas Lily Bloom
Every May, the Camas Prairie bursts into bloom with vibrant blue-purple camas lilies, turning the meadows near Fairfield into a painter’s dream. The bloom is short-lived — just a couple of weeks — but if you time it right, it’s breathtaking. The camas has deep roots in Native American culture, and visiting the bloom is a serene, almost sacred experience. You can also visit during Camas Prairie Days and catch local vendors, food and music.
4. Fishing at Oster Lakes
If your idea of spring includes a little excitement with a fishing rod in hand, Oster Lakes is your spot. Part of the Hagerman Wildlife Management Area, these spring-fed ponds are stocked with trout and make for easygoing, family-friendly fishing. It’s also a hot spot for birders. Waterfowl and other migratory birds are everywhere. In the early mornings here it’s pure magic with mist rising off the water and geese overhead.
5. Whitewater Kayaking on the Malad
For the adrenaline seekers, spring means whitewater season on the Malad River. Fueled by snowmelt, the Malad cranks up the volume in April and May, offering some rowdy Class III-IV rapids in a short but punchy run. It’s fast, furious, and over too soon — but absolutely worth it for a shot of springtime stoke.
Bonus!
6. Join us in welcoming Hagerman’s newest cafe – Francesca West!
Francesca’s is set to open their doors spring of 2025. We are all excited to have another amazing locally sourced restaurant to send guests to for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Grab a sandwich, taste some wine and kick back and enjoy!
Make sure to catch all of the adventures before the heat of summer sets in — this window of beauty doesn’t last long!
