Swan Valley

Located just over Pine Creek

Pass from Victor sits the not-so-sleepy town of Swan Valley. This outdoorsman’s mecca is worthy of much more than just a pass through. Situated along the banks of the South Fork of the Snake River, Swan Valley and nearby Irwin are celebrated as one of the best fly-fishing destinations in the United States. The scenery might be as captivating as the trophy trout.

This adventure hub is a valley for all seasons and year-round outdoor activities are a magnet for sportsmen and adventurers. Hunting, fishing, floating, camping, hiking, bird watching— you name it, you can likely enjoy it in or around Swan Valley, no matter your age! Resort-style accommodations at nearby Lodge at Palisades Creek and South Fork Lodge and Outfitters and a variety of amenities are available to meet the needs of tourists, trail riders, and outdoor recreationists.

Launch your boat from the Palisades Dam and enjoy a float downstream or find a hidden beach away from the crowds, where you can paddle board or kayak, fly fishing rod not required. Afterward, stop for lunch and a cold brew at the local’s favorite, Snake River Roadhouse Restaurant

MUST

Sweet Treats

After a day exploring the outdoors or soaking up the sights, nothing quite hits the spot like an ice-cold, creamy scoop of ice cream. Swan Valley’s Rainey Creek Country Store raised the icecream-bar, however, and are dishing out their creamy delights in square shape. On any given day—even when the snow falls!—patrons flock to the corner store located in the heart of town for a square scoop of their favorite flavor. Above the countertop, take a moment to check out the records for the most customers on any given day. On the Fourth of July, these ice cream gurus serve more than 15,000 scoops.

Cast A Line

You’ve likely heard anglers regal at just how amazing a day spent casting a line on the Snake River truly can be. And the South Fork of the Snake, located in Swan Valley, just might beat it all. Waters that bubble from the ground or fall on the alpine slopes of Greater Yellowstone end up in the South Fork of the Snake River. Exiting from Palisades Dam, the Snake River flows through lush and scenic cottonwood bottom lands abounding with wildlife, including great blue herons, Canada geese, and osprey. Attractions include a scenic river drive, a sizable fishery, and 126 species of birds, including a large bald eagle population.

There’s no better way to experience a day on the South Fork than led by the experienced guides that make up some of the most celebrated outfitters in the country. Peruse Yellowstone Teton Territory’s Hunting & Fishing Guide for a full list of outfitters or visit the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association (ioga. org). The Lodge at Palisades Creek, a premiere, Orvis-endorsed Snake River fishing lodge, offers lodging, guided fishing, and more. WorldCast Anglers offers guided trips, as well as the celebrated overnight fly-fishing adventure known as the South Fork Hilton Overnight. No matter your adventure of choice, you’re in for the fishing experience of a lifetime—and hopefully the catch of a lifetime, as well!

How to explore: Several campgrounds and boat launch areas are located along Highway 26. The Palisades Reservoir and the South Fork of the Snake River provide the angler some of the most outstanding native cutthroat fishing in the West. It’s also a popular spot for whitewater enthusiasts providing wild and scenic high-powered excitement. Local fly fishing and whitewater outfitters offer guided trips so you can experience the South Fork with the experts.

Wildlife Viewing

On a float, scenic drive, or hike in Swan Valley, be on the lookout for wildlife. Keep your eyes to the skies for a bald eagle soaring above or an osprey tending to its nest. Birding enthusiasts will delight in the endless raptors, swans, and unique bird species dotting the region. You might see mergansers, mountain bluebirds, sandhill cranes, and great blue herons. This pristine valley is also part of the Yellowstone ecosystem, which is home to the largest elk and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep herds in the country. Numerous white tail and mule deer, moose, bear, mountain lions, and some mountain goats also populate the region.

Lake Days On Palisades Reservoir

Located just east of Swan Valley, about 40 miles southeast of Idaho Falls, Upper and Lower Palisade lakes are scenic and accessible by hiking trails only. The six-mile trail is in good condition and can be used for hikers, backpackers, bikers, or horses. Some moose frequent the area. Lower Palisades Lake is much smaller than Upper Palisades, which is about two miles further up the trail. The Upper Palisades Lake is in a beautiful valley surrounded by forest and is a favorite spot for camping. Both lakes and Palisades Creek are stocked with native cutthroat trout and provide good fishing. Wildlife viewing along the trails is a good possibility.

Experienced guides in the area offer fishing and scenic tours on the Palisades Reservoir, which extends from Palisades Dam 22 miles east to Alpine, Wyoming. The reservoir is in the Snake River Range of the Rocky Mountains and is a beautiful setting where wildlife thrives. The lake is 16,000 acres and is located on Highway 26. Vacationers will find nine campgrounds containing 181 family units. Boat-launching ramps are located at convenient points along the reservoir at Blowout, Calamity, Indian Creek, Little Elk Creek, McCoy, and Upper Bear Creek. All have boat docks and campgrounds except Upper Bear Creek.

Palisades Reservoir is ideal for water skiing in the summer and features many picnic spots and boat docks. In the warmer months, water sports enthusiasts take to the lake. Motorized and non-motorized boating is allowed on the reservoir. Bring the entire family and make your own wake for some Idaho-style water skiing and wake boarding!