Local Guides World

TJ Wilson

5 reviews on 1 places
This was more impressive than expected. It appeared to have very little fanfare so we weren't sure about it. There was limited parking inside the gates so we ended up parking along the street and apprehensively entered. There is no fee to enter and, as we began walking around, we quickly understood what we were experiencing.

This place was an incredible little slice of heaven hidden in plain sight. There were so many plants everywhere. Pathway after pathway had new varieties of desert plants and flowers to take in. It was much much larger than expected and lovingly planned out.

Like Cleo's Ferry Museum, you could tell that this place was a labor of love. The time and energy put into this garden, privately, and without any government subsidizing or control, was incredible. In some ways it exceeded the Boise botanical garden.

You should definitely take in this wonderful garden if you're in Twin Falls, on a weekend in the Summer. Be sure you check to make sure it will be open. They keep very minimal hours. If you like it, as we did, they do take donations in two boxes near the entrance/exit.
Wilson Creek Trails
2023 Apr 24
First time hiking this area and it was awesome. We hiked the China Ditch Trail with the Hiking Idaho Facebook group. The trail is a little more than 7 miles long and is mostly gentle ups and downs on a week defined trail. There are several other trails in the area so if you have not been here before I recommend a good trail tracking app to keep you on track.

There is a step section when you leave the canyon, but it is maybe 100 yards of somewhat step climbing. This is a longer trail and preparation is key. If you are not in the best of shape or have other hiking difficulties, plan to take 4-5 hours rather than 2-3 hours to complete.

The views are gorgeous, the history is interesting, the canyon and mini Moab section is fascinating. I definitely recommend this hike for anyone with the ability to complete it.

There is lots of parking, with even an overflow parking area. Both parking areas have Vault toilets.

These trails are used by hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Be prepared to share the trails with everyone. If you take dogs, keep them on a leash and under control. If they spook a horse or chase a bicyclist, it would not be good for anyone. There are lots of cattle in this area too and the ranchers will not be happy if your dogs harass their castle. This entire area is available thanks to the cooperation of the ranchers, the local and state agencies, and responsible people respectfully using the land. Don't be the one to ruin it for everyone else.
Celebration Park
2023 Apr 11
What a cool park in the middle of nowhere along the snake river about 6 miles south of Melba, ID. There are petroglyphs, picnic tables, camping spots, the snake river, hiking trails, a visitor center, informational signs boards, and an atlatl range to try your hand at an ancient hunting tool. (If you can hit the mammoth in the target you get a cute sticker.)

A few things to keep in mind:
1) The visitor center is open from 10am - 2pm.
2) In order to use the atlatl range the visitor center has to be open since they provide the tools and the instruction.
3) There is almost no shade. Be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat.
4) Bathrooms at the visitor center may not be open year round so plan accordingly.
5) The hiking trails are rugged, so good shoes or hiking boots are recommended if you're going to hike.

Overall, this park is really great. Lots to do and fun to be had. The people who service the park are wonderful. You should really check it out and take the whole family.
Lochsa Falls Park
2018 May 08
A cute park in Lochsa Falls subdivision. It has settings and play equipment with sufficient green space for kids to run around or have a nice picnic. Lots of mature trees for shade. Also had a covered picnic area that can be used for larger groups, but scheduling may be required.
DeMeyer Park
2017 Nov 30
Fun wildlife, lots of open grass to play, a beautiful water feature, sand volleyball court, covered area with several picnic tables, and a large playground area. This park is one of the best in the area. A hidden gem.