3 Must-See Waterfalls Near Bonners Ferry Idaho

There are many waterfalls throughout Idaho however if you are crossing the Canadian border into Idaho there are 3 must-see waterfalls near Bonners Ferry in the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge area that are worth exploring. It road follows the beautiful scenic Kootenai River. Bald Eagles often migrate to this area.

This charming City is the gateway into Idaho, 50km from the Kingsgate Border Crossing, however, before you drive too far the Copper Falls trailhead is only 1 mile from the border.

Camping

There is a nice campground here as well with 16 well-treed sites with fire pits and picnic tables for a $15 a-night Fee. There are only 2 single-vault toilet outhouses but are the cleanest outhouses ever. A table is in each equipped with hand sanitizer and air fresheners which are a nice personal touch. Potable water near toilets. I highly recommend this campground. It is easily accessible and clean with a short path to the creek.

Other campgrounds are Robinson Lake which is a dried-up and long dirt road in. Brush Lake and Smith Lake are ok however not as easy to get to.

#1 Copper Falls

Copper Falls is a 2.3 km loop. Easy well-maintained path with interpretive signs throughout the trail. A slight incline up to the falls, however, there are many benches along the way to stop for a rest. It is just nice to take your time and listen to the sound of nature that surrounds you.

The trail leads to a lookout where the falls splash down from a rock bluff above. There is a trail leading down to the bottom of the falls across a bridge that loops back onto the trail.

#2 Myrtle Falls

Myrtle Falls is a 1.4 km out-and-back trail. Well-maintained path with a slight incline leading up to the lookout. It is possible to get down to the bottom of the falls but it’s a bit steep and tricky.

#3 Snow Creek Falls

Snow Creek Trail is a well-maintained 2.3 km out-and-back trail. There is an Upper and Lower falls however the upper has a lot more to offer. A nice trail with many wooden bridge crossing little streams throughout the trail. A bit of an incline on the way back but very doable.

To get to Snow Falls after myrtle falls take Lions Den Road, HWY 18 to the right, and up to Snow Creek Road 402. It’s a windy gravel road to the trailhead. Parking is just off the side of the road.

Things to do in Bonners Ferry

Bonners Ferry, Idaho is famous for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and historical significance. Besides the 3 waterfalls, Options to explore are:

• Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge: Explore the refuge, which covers over 2,800 acres
• Boundary County Museum
• Downtown Bonners Ferry
• Scenic Drives
• Outdoor Recreation
• Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Winter
• Drive the International Selkirk Loop
• Casino and Spas
• Wildlife Watching
• Bonners Ferry Farmers Market