The 10 Commandments Of Box Canyon
Beautiful Box Canyon Hike
Box Canyon is definitely a hidden treasure of the Magic Valley, nestled in a small canyon near Hagerman. Here are the direction to the parking for Box Canyon. The hike can be difficult for some and the water is definitely chilly...it is also crystal clear! Here are the 10 Commandments of Box Canyon to help make your visit the best possible.
- 1
Thou Shalt Be Prepared To Hike
The beginning of the hike takes you through open fields to the edge of the canyon. Then you have to climb into the canyon (on a steep trail). The rest of the hike to the Box Canyon Springs Preserve is along a dirt trail in the canyon. Total hike distance is about 6 miles.
- 2
Thou Shalt Bring Lots Of Water
The Box Canyon hike isn't easy and for a good portion of it you are in the open sun. If you go in the summer you will need extra water.
- 3
Thou Shalt Swim
Box Canyon is home to the 11th largest spring in the United States. The waters are crystal clear...and ice cold! The small pond at the end of the canyon is an amazing site for the eyes and a welcome resting place on hot summer days.
- 4
Thou Shalt Take Pictures and Video
There is so much beauty in Box Canyon. Before you enter the canyon make sure to check out the overlook to see the beautiful waterfall flowing from the canyon wall. There is also a nice smaller waterfall about halfway through the canyon. The trees and towering canyon walls make for great picture opportunities.
- 5
Thou Shalt Pay the Required Park Fee
There is a parking fee of $5-10 per vehicle, so bring cash.
- 6
Thou Shalt Watch Out For Nasty Weeds
There is an abundance of Poison Ivy and Stinging Nettle in the canyon.
- 7
Thou Shalt Fish
There is great fishing in the crystal clear waters of the river and pond. There are also crawdad in the waters edge of the pond.
- 8
Thou Shalt Camp
If you can pack in your gear, camping near the pond is possible. There are no facilities so this is bare bones camping. A cool dip in the water in the evening or to wake you up in the morning is a nice perk. Remember - Pack out what you bring in.
- 9
Thou Shalt Not Don't Rush The Hike - Enjoy It
This goes along with the 4th Commandment to take pictures and video. Don't rush the hike. If you only focus on getting in and out you'll miss much of the beauty.
Also, depending on your physical abilities, rushing through the hike will wear you out quickly.
- 10
Thou Shalt Pack Out Your Trash
There are no trash cans in the canyon so you'll have to pack out what you pack in. This also includes is you have to go to the bathroom. There are restrooms outside the canyon if your body lets you plan ahead.
Keep the canyon beautiful and pack out your trash.