
Malad Gorge
Stroll on the edge of a basalt canyon with streaming waterfalls, with just a short side trip from the interstate.
Hiking Easy
- Distance
- 3 km
- Ascent
- 112 m
- Descent
- 112 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 972 m
- High Point
- 996 m
- Gradient
- 5˚

In a short detour from Interstate 84, you can see a dramatic canyon that tumbles with waterfalls. In this small unit of Thousand Springs State Park (entrance fee required) the Malad River tumbles through a tight gorge and meets a gushing spring on its way to the Snake River, which awaits out of sight downstream.
Description
From the parking lot beside the freeway, take an easy but sun and wind-exposed stroll along the rim of the gorge. You'll first cross a footbridge that parallels the interstate, overlooking a stair-step waterfall within a corridor of vertical basalt. Continue along a paved path to find interpretive signs at another viewpoint, and go beyond that for a dirt trail with unprotected access to the edge.
You can continue along the rim, then cross a narrowing peninsula of rock to find a view over the voluminous natural spring––a pool of clear blue amid an amphitheater of stone. Just a little farther on, you'll see a hydroelectric dam at the confluence of canyons. From that point you can go no further, so you'll turn around and enjoy a different angle on the views heading back to the start.
Difficulty
Easy
Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.
Best time to visit
Features
- Picturesque
- Dog friendly
- Wild flowers
- Water features
- Family friendly