Niagara Springs Wildlife Management Area

In 1971 the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) obtained eight scattered islands in the Snake River from the BLM. The following year, IDFG personnel used Bureau of Outdoor Recreation funds to purchase the Niagara Springs Ranch, and today, Niagara Springs Wildlife Management Area (WMA) totals 957 acres. The area provides excellent views of whitewater rapids on the Snake River, steep canyon cliffs, and a well-developed riparian ecosystem. 

Management practices center around waterfowl nesting, feeding and wintering habitat preservation and development. Common birds seen in the spring and summer include canyon wren, common yellowthroat, yellow warbler, Bullock's oriole, yellow-breasted chat and Say's phoebe. Waterfowl use the area year-round but can blanket the area in winter. Other common species include American white pelican, great blue heron, double-crested cormorant, Caspian tern, golden eagle, mule deer and various small mammals.

Location: From Interstate 84, take Wendell exit 157 and go south for 7 miles. The entrance road is signed. Park and walk through the area. Niagara Springs and Pugmire Park are on the WMA's eastern side. Facilities are at the park.