Meppen – Idaho Canal Trail

The trail starts (or ends, depending on which direction you go) just across the street from Chuck-A-Rama and Walmart in Ammon. You can start on the path right there, and it follows the Meppen Canal and then the Idaho Canal. From there, it continues all the way to the other end, which finishes just across the street from The WAREhouse in Idaho Falls. It’s a good stretch of uninterrupted, beautiful pathway. What’s nice is that many road crossings have a lighted cross-walk to notify oncoming traffic of pedestrians crossing. 

There are a few ways to plan your adventure. If you have two cars, you can park one at each end and do a one-way trip. The about halfway point is by Woodruff Avenue, near Logan Glass, kind of by WinCo Foods. That’s a great area to park one car if you want to do half the trail instead of the whole thing. Even if you just have one car, it’s still a great out-and-back trail —you can go as far as you want whether it’s halfway or the whole thing.

This trail is made for all kinds of human-powered vehicles. It’s wide and smooth, so whether you’re out for a relaxing evening stroll or training for a 10k, it’s perfect.

It’s a great option if you want to get the kids out to burn off some energy. Be sure to watch really little kids closely since the path is not fenced from the canal. There is quite a distance from the trail to the canal but be watchful of where they go.

One of the things I really love about this trail is how well done the bridges and crosswalks are built. You’re never stuck trying to cross a busy road—almost all road crossings have pedestrian lights, even the small and less busy roads. There are multiple bridges that cross over the canals. The bridges themselves are beautiful and well-built but it’s also a really peaceful place to gaze at the canal water flowing. The bridges are built wide and sturdy so you can cross them easily and not worry about the kids while on the bridge looking at the water.

Everything is so well thought out. It’s also open and visible—no dark, creepy corners or isolated areas. You’re usually around other people, which adds a layer of comfort. That said, I would only use this trail during the day.

See our experience in the video below.

The trail runs right alongside the Meppen Canal at first, then transitions to follow the Idaho Canal. Walking next to the water gives it a peaceful vibe. But, you’re not allowed to get in the water. There are signs posted along the way with rules that are important to follow.

Path Rules:

1.  NO MOTOR VEHICLES, Except as authorized by Idaho Irrigation District.
2. NO SWIMMING, WADING, OR BOATING.
3. NO littering.
4. NO walking in the canal or on the canal banks.
5. Users must remain on the pathway.
6. Users must yield to Irrigation District workers.
7. Violators shall be fined and prosecuted.

Because it connects the busy parts of town, you can fit in some time to use this trail whenever you decide to take a little stroll. You can work it into your day before picking up your Walmart grocery order, before shopping at WinCo, or after shopping at Home Depot. 

It’s especially nice in the summer when you want a change of scenery without driving too far. The trail is open year-round, but you’ll want to be careful in winter since it can get icy.

When I use this trail, I’m reminded how we’re lucky to have something like this in the middle of town. It’s well maintained, beautifully laid out, and feels safe and accessible for anyone.

If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend giving it a go. Bring your bike, grab a friend for a walk, or take the kids out on their scooters. However you use it, the Meppen–Idaho Canal Trail is one of those spots that just makes everyday life feel a little bit better.

Meppen – Idaho Canal Trail

📍 Multi-purpose trail in Idaho Falls, Idaho

🥾 Difficulty: Easy, paved trail