Why Now Is The Time To Paddle

Summer in the Hagerman Valley is winding down fast. If you haven’t yet experienced one of southern Idaho’s most magical paddles, now is the time! Just outside of Hagerman, a short drive from the Hagerman Valley Inn, sits Ritter Island, a gem within Thousand Springs State Park. Circling this Historic island by paddling is the kind of easy, unforgettable adventure that feels like a secret only locals know. With labor day behind us, the footbridge onto the island itself is closed for the season which actually makes this a great time to focus on the water. The boat launch, springs, river, fishing, and waterfalls are still fully open. These quieter September days are some of the most peaceful and beautiful of the year, perfect for a relaxed paddle without the summer crowds.

Crystal-Clear Springs, Towering Cliffs, and a Little Island History

As you paddle, waterfalls will come into view. Lemmon Falls cascades down the canyon wall. The contrast of the bright, turquoise spring water where it meets the deeper, earth-toned Snake River is striking! It’s a natural phenomenon you can only fully appreciate from water level.

Nearby, Minnie Miller Springs cascades closer to the island itself. These springs are named after Minnie Miller, a pioneering Salt Lake City businesswoman. She purchased the island in 1918 and developed it into a state-of-the-art dairy farm with the goal to breed the world’s finest Guernsey cattle. Minnie was a traveler and entrepreneur. She imported foundation stock from the Isle of Guernsey and built the Rock House and historic barn in 1920. Her prize-winning herd earned national recognition, including a feature in National Geographic in 1944 . She hosted popular annual ice cream socials that drew hundreds of neighbors. Visitors can still walk through her historic barn as part of the state park experience.

Federal Judge Willis Ritter acquired the farm in 1954, and the island takes its current name from him. The Ritter family owned it for more than three decades. The Nature Conservancy then purchased the property in 1986 to protect the springs and wildlife habitat. It was later transferred to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, and is now part of Thousand Springs State Park.

Foot access is open (typically Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day). During that time you can step ashore near the bridge for a short self-guided tour around the buildings and trails. Even without getting out, the views of the green island make the paddle special. Wildlife can be seen from the river and bird enthusiasts will delight in watching an array of migratory birds enjoy the area’s rich vegetation.

Overall Paddle – An Easy, Scenic Loop

The water current around the island is unique and worth planning around. Near the power plant, spring water surges out. The current in the channel actually flows in both directions before it feeds into the snake river. Most people launch from the grassy Idaho Power public park area next to the hydroelectric plant. (parking is free and there is no launching fee). You can also launch from spots across the river near Thousand Springs Resort.

When you launch at Idaho Power’s park near the island – head south (left). This lets you join the Snake at the upstream end of the island, then circle clockwise. You take advantage of the current once you reach the river side, and the loop becomes smoother. The water circuit is short and usually takes about two hours to leisurely paddle with plenty of time for photos, drifting, and soaking in the views. It’s not a long or strenuous trip, which makes it perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking for a relaxed last-summer adventure rather than an all-day expedition.

• Quick Tip: The upriver part of the loop, on the north side of the island, can require some portaging so make sure you’re wearing sandals or water shoes. You can paddle the waters around the island from dawn to dusk any day of the week, even when the gated island foot access is closed.

Stay Close and Rent from Us

Ritter Island is right outside Hagerman and only about 15 minutes from the Hagerman Valley Inn. Make us your base for the perfect easy day: sleep in, grab breakfast nearby, head out for your paddle, and be back in time to relax. We offer paddleboard rentals so you don’t have to bring your own gear or scramble for last-minute equipment. Life jackets and paddles are included with rentals—just give us a call to reserve. Due to sizing, we do not carry youth life jackets, so plan to bring those from home. 

Ready to go? Call the Hagerman Valley Inn at (208) 837-6196 to check availability and book your paddleboard rental. Spots fill up as the season wraps up, especially on nice weekends, so don’t wait!