On one of our trips to Twin Falls, Idaho, we came across a few people that told us to check out Balanced Rock. At that time, our schedule was full so we didn’t get a chance. Luckily, on our last trip, we were able to squeeze it in since it was quite close to Thousand Springs State Park. It is so much better than we thought! Balanced Rock, near Castleford, Idaho, is a world-famous wind-carved rock, balancing precariously on a pedestal only 3ft by 17 inches. The top rock is over 48ft tall and weighs 40 tons! It is a sight to be seen!
Note: Please make sure to respect this beautiful place and the surrounding areas. Always practice LEAVE NO TRACE. This means no loud music, no graffiti, no pushing or touching to balanced rock, and pack out what you pack in! Please help us protect this place for generations to come!
Stats
Where
Balanced Rock Park
Balanced Rock Rd, Buhl, ID 83316
42°32’50.8″N 114°57’30.1″W
Parking
There is a pull out on the side of the road, in front of Balanced Rock
Restroom
There is no restroom at the trailhead, however, there is a vault toilet down the street at the Balanced Rock Park campground.
Fee
Free
Important Things
If you want to hike up to the rock, make sure to bring good hiking shoes.
Distance
584 ft one way
Elevation Gain
Maybe 100ft. We couldn’t get the actual measurement.
Level
Easy to moderate. The trail to go up is steep and slippery.
Time:
30 minutes
Pet-friendly
We don’t recommend bringing your dogs up to the rock, however, we believe you can have your pets at the parking area.
Ideal Time
Cooler days since there is not shades. Sunset is gorgeous up there.
Weather
Video
Getting There:
Balanced Rock is located near Castleford, Idaho, and can be reached by taking U.S Highway 30, then following Glenn’s Ferry Road until you get to the turnout for Balanced Rock. You should be able to map your way there using the coordinates above. The drive here itself is quite beautiful. The winding canyon can be dangerous to drive through later in the day, however, it gives you breathtaking views of the canyon. There are many directional signs to the Balanced Rock so you won’t miss it.
The Adventure
The Trail to the Balanced Rock
After taking our time driving through the beautiful, winding canyon, we arrived at the small parking lot in front of the world-famous balanced rock. Even from the car, we can already see this amazing handiwork of mother nature. From the parking lot, you can look up to see how precariously the top rock balances on top of its tiny base. It was quite amazing.
Noticing the used trail leading up to the base of the balanced rock, we quickly made our way up. The trail looks quite short and it is. However, don’t underestimate it. It is steep and very slippery. There are tons of loose rocks, making it easy for you to lose your footing. Please make sure to wear proper hiking shoes if you want to attempt this super short trek. We were glad we put on our hiking shoes. About halfway to the top, the trail splits up into multiple routes. We ended up taking the route that was safest for us.
Balanced Rock
Once we got to the top, you can look down at this amazing view below. You can also explore the area behind the rock. If you want to, you can climb up to the base of this rock. We ended up climbing up to the rock for a better view. A bit of caution, it is quite tricky climbing up and down to the base of the balanced rock. Please do not attempt this if you’re unsure. Also, please don’t push the balanced rock or do anything that will jeopardize this place. If you get a chance, this place is breathtaking to watch the sunset.
We love this place more than we thought we would. At first, we thought we were just a quick roadside attraction, which it can be. However, the little short hike to the top and the view up there, especially during sunset really sold it for us. If you have a chance, make sure to check this place out. If you’re visiting this area, don’t forget to check out 1000 Spings, and Shoshone Falls. You can also kayak to the bottom of Shoshone Falls!
These are the gear that we personally use and find them helpful for this particular adventure. Don’t forget to check out our Recommended Gear section as well.
adventure gear
This is our favourite hiking shoes. We use them for canyoneering as well. Lots of traction. Vy’s version.
Dustin’s version for La Sportiva shoes
Make sure to use lots of sunscreens! We use eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen, Stream2Sea SPF 30.
Face sunscreen is also important. We love these tinted, organic All Good Organic Sunscreen Butter.
You should always bring plenty of water. Vy loves the Camelback L.U.X.E.
For shorter hikes, the Patagonia Women’s Nine Trails Pack 18L is perfect to hold water and your essentials.
If you want something lighter, we love the packable Patagonia Women’s Houdini® Jacket and Patagonia Men’s Houdini® Jacket
other things to bring
Always good to bring some snacks with you. For healthy and easy snacks, check out some of our recipes.
camera gear
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