Photo: Lómelinde, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Shoshone_Falls_Idaho_(31).JPG. Resized.
Dierkes Lake
Tucked into the same canyon as Shoshone Falls, Dierkes Lake is the easy local swim, picnic, and walking loop.
About 15 Minutes From Downtown Twin Falls
Dierkes Lake sits in the same city park complex as Shoshone Falls, in a pocket of the Snake River Canyon with basalt walls around a swimming lake. The City of Twin Falls bought the property in 1969. The official facility page describes a 191 acre park with a 1.7 mile unpaved walking trail around the lake, plus picnic tables, shelters, a playground, restrooms, and room for a family barbecue.
On a hot afternoon this is where locals go to cool off. Swimming is part of the draw, and nonmotorized boats, kayaks, and canoes are allowed on the lake. The city does not allow alcohol, and overnight camping is not permitted. Dogs are welcome at Shoshone Falls on a leash, but the city's Shoshone Falls FAQ says dogs are not allowed in the grassy area at Dierkes Lake.
Best Time To Visit
Summer is the natural season for a swim, and the city lists summer hours as 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The park is otherwise open from dawn to dusk. Spring and fall are quieter if you mainly want the loop trail and a picnic.
Getting There, Fees, And Hours
The drive from downtown Twin Falls is about 15 minutes, and the address is 4155 Shoshone Falls Grade Road, the same approach as the falls. From March 1 through the fall, the city charges a $5 vehicle fee for the Shoshone Falls and Dierkes Lake area. A season pass is $25. If you have already paid for Shoshone Falls that day, you are already in. Confirm hours and fees on the city's pages before you go.