An 8-Mile Adventure from Centennial Park to Shoshone Falls

There’s something magical about stepping out of your comfort zone and into a brand new adventure. Last weekend, I did just that—paddleboarding for the first time with a coworker, gliding through the heart of Twin Falls, Idaho. If you’re craving a soul-filling day on the water, let me walk you through our journey from Centennial Park to the breathtaking Shoshone Falls.

Starting Point: Centennial Park in the Canyon

Our day began at Centennial Park, tucked deep in the Snake River Canyon. The launch is easy to find, but the anticipation builds as you look up at the towering canyon walls. As we set off, we paddled under the iconic Perrine Bridge. The sound of cars rumbling above echoed eerily between the cliffs—a reminder of how small we are compared to things both Man and God created.

The Pillars: Nature’s Sculptures and a Little Uncertainty

Not far along, we hit the “pillars”—a surreal spot where stones stand tall, water trickles down in miniature waterfalls, and the river narrows. This is where the real adventure began. Every instruction I’d read simply said, “Stay to the right.” So, we did, even though we had no idea what to expect.

Staying right meant trekking through a patch of stagnant, mossy water, hoisting our boards over stony paths, and weaving around boulders. It felt a bit like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but thankfully, nothing was too wild. After about 200 yards, we found a clear patch of water—a perfect spot to hop back on our boards and continue the journey.

Destination: The Majesty of Shoshone Falls

The river soon opened up, and before long, we heard the thunder of Shoshone Falls. Did you know Shoshone is actually taller than Niagara Falls? It’s true! While it’s not as wide, standing at the base and feeling the spray on your face is a soul-stirring experience. That morning, my coworker and I had the falls all to ourselves—a rare, peaceful moment to soak in the beauty of God’s creation.

Lessons Learned: The Paddle Back & Pro Tips

Here’s the twist: we assumed the current would help us back, but it actually pulled us toward the falls. The return trip was a workout! By the time we reached the launch, my shoulders were a little pink, my lips chapped, and my water bottle empty. If I could give you one tip—it’s to pack at least three times more water than you think you’ll need!

How to Paddleboard from Centennial Park to Shoshone Falls:

1. Start at Centennial Park: Drive down into the canyon and launch your board.
2. Head under Perrine Bridge: Enjoy the echoes and the view!
3. Approach the Pillars: Stay to the right. Be ready to walk your board through shallow, rocky water for about 200 yards.
4. Continue to Shoshone Falls: Paddle until you hear the roar and see the mist—take time to soak it all in.
5. Paddle Back: Watch for the current, and don’t underestimate the return trip.
6. Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, a hat, snacks, and lots of water.

Final Thoughts

This adventure was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best memories are made when you don’t know exactly what you’re doing. Paddleboarding to Shoshone Falls fed my soul, challenged my body, and gave me a new appreciation for the wild, wonderful places right in our backyard.

Would I do it again? Absolutely—with a much bigger water bottle in tow.