Canyon Waters

Below the Harriman Park the Henry’s Fork quickly changes from its quiet, peaceful personality to a rugged, turbulent, angry place. The river drops in elevation over a thousand feet over a course of 15 miles. Access is very limited in certain areas due to the terrain. 

There are 3 major waterfalls rendering 6 miles of this water unnavigable for boating. Upper Mesa Falls is a majestic and powerful waterfall where the entire volume of the Henry's Fork plunges 114 feet over a dramatic, straight lip of resistant volcanic rock.  The surrounding area features accessible boardwalks and viewing platforms, including one right at the brink of the falls, providing breathtaking and close-up perspectives of this impressive natural wonder. 4 The historic Big Falls Inn (Mesa Falls Visitor Center) overlooks the falls, offering interpretive exhibits about the area's geology and history.   

Floating Cardiac Canyon, downstream from Lower Mesa Falls, is an exhilarating and demanding whitewater experience set against a backdrop of dramatic, steep basalt cliffs. It's a journey that combines the thrill of navigating challenging rapids with the opportunity to witness the raw power and beauty of the river. Access to this water requires launching a raft at the challenging boat slide below Lower Mesa Falls.  

Only the most experienced, physically fit, should attempt this trip. The steep trail from the parking area is rough, rocky and dangerous. It also requires an expert, qualified boatman. The dark basalt cliffs, the roar of the rapids, and the crystal-clear water create a sensory experience unlike any other on the Henry's Fork. The Cardiac Canyon experience is always in high demand, especially in June during Salmonfly time. Requests for this trip should be made well in advance.