About Upper Mesa Falls
Upper Mesa Falls is a named waterfall in Fremont County, Idaho, located about 10.0 miles northeast of Ashton. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Snake River Butte 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 44°11′17″ N, 111°19′48″ W (44.18797, -111.32995). Historical sources also record the names Big Falls, Mesa Falls, Upper Falls Henrys Fork, and Upper Falls. The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Lower Mesa Falls, 1.0 miles to the southeast.
A viewing platform offers a close view of this powerful 10-story waterfall along the Snake River.
USGS gazetteer description: The falls have a vertical drop of 114 feet.
More Photos
1,865 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Upper Mesa Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Upper Mesa Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Boise time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Upper Mesa Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Upper Mesa Falls holds a 4.9 average from 466 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 44.18797, -111.32995. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Upper Mesa Falls
- Cave Falls, WY17 mi east
- Ouzel Falls, WY18 mi east
- Colonnade Falls, WY19 mi east
- Iris Falls, WY19 mi east
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Upper Mesa Falls located?
Upper Mesa Falls is in Fremont County, Idaho, about 10.0 miles northeast of Ashton. Its coordinates are 44.18797, -111.32995 (44°11′17″ N, 111°19′48″ W).
What town is closest to Upper Mesa Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Ashton, ID, about 10.0 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Upper Mesa Falls?
The closest is Lower Mesa Falls (1.0 mi southeast). Others within reach include Sheep Falls (3.3 mi), Sheep Falls (14 mi), and Dunanda Falls (16 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Upper Mesa Falls?
Upper Mesa Falls appears on the USGS Snake River Butte 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.