Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park

Idaho

Bonneville County

Idaho Falls

Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park

Moderate

3.3

(29)

hikers

Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park

Q: How long does it take to hike the Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park?

This route typically takes around 2 hours to complete. While the terrain is generally flat and easy, the distance of nearly 8 kilometers makes it a good option for a leisurely stroll or a longer outing.

Q: What is the difficulty and terrain like on this trail?

The trail is predominantly paved and flat , making it an easy and accessible option for most hikers, including those with strollers. While komoot rates it as 'moderate' due to its length, the negligible elevation gain means the terrain itself isn't challenging. You'll find a mix of paved paths and some rolling hills within the broader Freeman Park area.

Q: Where can I park to access the trail?

You can find ample parking at Freeman Park itself, which serves as a convenient access point for this section of the Snake River Trail. The park offers various amenities, making it a good starting or ending point for your hike.

Q: Is the Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is beautiful year-round. However, spring and summer offer lush green scenery, and late May mornings are particularly pleasant with good smells from the plants. It's also less crowded than the downtown riverwalk, especially in the mornings, offering a more peaceful experience.

Q: Are there any permits or entrance fees required?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park. It is freely accessible to the public.

Q: What notable features or landmarks will I see along the route?

Along this route, you'll encounter several interesting spots. You'll pass by Ryder Park , the Idaho Falls Pier , and the serene Friendship Garden . You'll also get views of the iconic Idaho Falls and the Idaho Falls waterfalls .

Q: What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

The trail offers opportunities for observing local wildlife, particularly various bird species . Keep an eye out for eagles, hawks, and waterfowl that thrive along the riverbanks of the Snake River.

Q: Does this trail connect to other paths?

Yes, this route is part of the larger Idaho Falls Greenbelt system and intersects with several other well-known paths. You'll find sections of the Temple Loop , Memorial Loop , Sunny Side Connections , Freeman Loop , and Sunny Side Bridge along the way, allowing for extended exploration.

Q: What amenities are available near the trail?

Russ Freeman Park, which is central to this trail section, offers a variety of amenities. These include a giant playground for children, picnic tables, benches, a war memorial, a band shelter, and an 18-hole disc golf course. These facilities make it an ideal spot for a family outing.

02:01

7.90km

30m

Hiking

The Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park offers a delightful journey along the Snake River, following the paved paths of the Idaho Falls Greenbelt. You'll enjoy continuous river views, passing through lush green spaces and parks, with cottonwood trees and willows providing a verdant backdrop. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially various bird species like eagles and hawks, thriving along the riverbanks near the Idaho Falls Power Fishing Pond.

This moderate 4.9-mile (7.9 km) hike involves a minimal 93 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, making it an accessible option for most, and typically takes around 2 hours. Parking is available at the Idaho Falls Power Fishing Pond, accessed via U.S. Highway 91 and Canyon Road. Be aware that the fishing pond area is closed annually from March 1 to June 15 to protect nesting waterfowl.

This segment is part of the larger Idaho Falls Greenbelt, a popular 7- to 12-mile linear park system that winds along both sides of the Snake River. The route culminates at Freeman Park, a large 60-acre destination featuring amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and the Idaho State Vietnam Veterans Memorial, making it a great spot to relax after your walk.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

160 m

Ryder Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Large recreational park south of Idaho Falls. Trails, picnic areas, playground, and a long waterfront along the Snake River offer both hiking opportunities and rest areas. The park and the 1.05 acre fishing pond are open to the general public year round from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.

Tip by

3.62 km

Idaho Falls Pier

Highlight • Bridge

The Idaho Falls Pier is located along the Snake River and is connected with the Greenbelt trail system that runs to historic downtown Idaho Falls. This pier is very charming, with benches to sit in, it can be a nice place to stop by and appreciate the river as it flows. The pier can be rented through the Department of Recreation of Idaho Falls, for events such as weddings, birthdays, community events, and more.

Tip by

4.83 km

Friendship Garden

Highlight • Structure

good way, fantastic

Translated by Google •

Tip by

5.01 km

Idaho Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

A large river with a modified urban waterfall, surrounded by different species of plants composing the landscape near the river and the trail. This is one of the most tourist spots in Idaho Falls, with lots of restaurants around, nice gardens along the trail, and a public library close by. Behind the waterfall there’s also a dam, composing a beautiful and relaxing area to visit.

Tip by

5.09 km

Idaho Falls waterfalls

Highlight • Waterfall

In the center of the city of Idaho Falls, the Snake River tumbles over rocks and boulders and creates these picturesque waterfalls that span over the river – one of Idaho Falls' many landmarks. If you want to enjoy the view a little longer, take a hike along the Idaho Falls River Walk.

Tip by

7.90 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.40 km

2.06 km

301 m

137 m

Surfaces

3.01 km

2.21 km

1.22 km

724 m

626 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Monday 5 October

29°C

7°C

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Comments

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park?

This route typically takes around 2 hours to complete. While the terrain is generally flat and easy, the distance of nearly 8 kilometers makes it a good option for a leisurely stroll or a longer outing.

What is the difficulty and terrain like on this trail?

The trail is predominantly paved and flat, making it an easy and accessible option for most hikers, including those with strollers. While komoot rates it as 'moderate' due to its length, the negligible elevation gain means the terrain itself isn't challenging. You'll find a mix of paved paths and some rolling hills within the broader Freeman Park area.

Where can I park to access the trail?

You can find ample parking at Freeman Park itself, which serves as a convenient access point for this section of the Snake River Trail. The park offers various amenities, making it a good starting or ending point for your hike.

Is the Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is beautiful year-round. However, spring and summer offer lush green scenery, and late May mornings are particularly pleasant with good smells from the plants. It's also less crowded than the downtown riverwalk, especially in the mornings, offering a more peaceful experience.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Snake River Trail: Fish Pond to Freeman Park. It is freely accessible to the public.

What notable features or landmarks will I see along the route?

Along this route, you'll encounter several interesting spots. You'll pass by Ryder Park, the Idaho Falls Pier, and the serene Friendship Garden. You'll also get views of the iconic Idaho Falls and the Idaho Falls waterfalls.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

The trail offers opportunities for observing local wildlife, particularly various bird species. Keep an eye out for eagles, hawks, and waterfowl that thrive along the riverbanks of the Snake River.

Does this trail connect to other paths?

Yes, this route is part of the larger Idaho Falls Greenbelt system and intersects with several other well-known paths. You'll find sections of the Temple Loop, Memorial Loop, Sunny Side Connections, Freeman Loop, and Sunny Side Bridge along the way, allowing for extended exploration.

What amenities are available near the trail?

Russ Freeman Park, which is central to this trail section, offers a variety of amenities. These include a giant playground for children, picnic tables, benches, a war memorial, a band shelter, and an 18-hole disc golf course. These facilities make it an ideal spot for a family outing.

Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back?

The specific route from Fish Pond to Freeman Park is generally an out-and-back section of the broader Snake River Trail. However, within Freeman Park, there are various loop options, such as the 'Freeman Loop,' that allow for circular walks.