Kelly Canyon Recreation Area, Idaho

Author: momoftwo
Date of Trip: December 2002

The Kelly Canyon area offers a variety of activities like golf, rock climbing, skiing, hot springs, swimming, horseback riding, fishing, and camping, to name a few. It’s a great place for any age.

Fishing on the Snake
Fly as well as bait works well. The Famous Idaho Trout are caught in these waters. You’ll need a fishing license before you throw your first cast. This area is amazing and even if you are not fishing (i.e. a non-fishing spouse) you’ll have a great time sitting on the banks of this great river. There are several canals that run along side of the river and my dad catches the most fish from these. He usually uses grubs or worms and does just fine. Many fly fisherman can be seen at all times of the year.

A good place to stop for information before you head up is: All Seasons Angler 208/524-7160, 275 A. Street in Idaho Falls. These guys know their stuff and can hook you up with all kinds of gear as well as advice.

Heise Hot Springs
Whether it’s summer or winter, Heise Hot Springs has a great time in store for you. Located on the banks of the Snake River, about 5 miles outside of Ririe and 20 miles from bigger Idaho Falls, this is an ideal place to set up camp or just spend the day. Besides the pools, this area has a camping ground for tents and RVs, a pizza parlor, and a golf course. It’s perfect for large gatherings. The pool area consists of a large pool with a shallow and deep end and plenty of space to sunbathe. It’s surrounded by huge pine trees and there are picnic benches both by the pool and the river. There is a large tube slide that is very fast and a great addition to the site. You can buy an all-day ride pass or a wristband valid for three to 10 rides that can be shared by family members. There is also a concession stand and video games inside the main area.

Another unique feature is the covered grandstand where Grandma and Grandpa–or whoever doesn’t want to swim–can still watch all the action below. The Hot Pools are located in a seperate area and, in the summer, you can buy a combination pass for both pools. In the winter only the Hot Pools are open, and it’s great after a long day skiing at Kelly Canyon. Adults are $6, kids 3-12 $3, and those under-two are free. Open year round. Call 208/538-7312 for exact times.

Kelly Canyon Resort
Three lift chairs, snowboarding area, and rope tow for beginners. There’s also a lodge with a restaurant and view of the mountain. Night skiing is a big hit! Make sure you stop at Heise Hot Springs after a full day of skiing…you passed it on the way up to the hill. A great mountain for the whole family. It has everything from the bunny hill with rope tow, to the expert black diamond runs, to the brand new (2003) snowboarding area. Only 20 minutes from Idaho Falls, this is a great choice for families wanting to spend the day skiing, not driving to the mountain.

Get your discounted lift tickets at Idaho Mountain Trading (208/523-6679). There are buses that will take you from Idaho Falls up to the hill, which is a great way for teenagers without a license to ski for the day. I have never had to wait more than 60 seconds to get on the lifts.

Heise Pizza Parlour
A must stop after skiing at Kelley’s, a round of golf, or a swim at the pool. The pizza is the main attraction, but you can also get sandwiches. There are lots of video games and a great deck that overlooks the golf course.