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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Balanced Rock

Castleford, Idaho · Owyhee County

South of Buhl in the Salmon Falls Creek Canyon stands world-famous Balanced Rock. Over 48 feet tall and 40 tons, the wind-carved rock balances precariously on a pedestal only 3 feet by 17 inches. Nearby Balanced Rock Park is a good spot for a picnic.

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42.57449, -115.08963
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Balanced Rock

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High85°F
Avg Low57°F
Peak Rain Chance1%
Humidity23%
UV (avg)5
Today
☁️
Overcast
82°/50°
🌬 10mph
↑ 7:38 AM ↓ 7:19 PM
Sat
☁️
Overcast
81°/55°
🌬 9mph
↑ 7:39 AM ↓ 7:17 PM
Sun
☁️
Overcast
88°/56°
🌬 7mph
↑ 7:41 AM ↓ 7:16 PM
Mon
🌦
Drizzle
88°/61°
💧 1%🌬 17mph
↑ 7:42 AM ↓ 7:14 PM
Tue
🌤
Mostly Clear
85°/61°
🌬 11mph
↑ 7:43 AM ↓ 7:12 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Balanced Rock

South of Buhl in the Salmon Falls Creek Canyon stands world-famous Balanced Rock. Over 48 feet tall and 40 tons, the wind-carved rock balances precariously on a pedestal only 3 feet by 17 inches. Nearby Balanced Rock Park is a good spot for a picnic.

How to Get There

This is a spur trip off the Thousand Springs Tour. Follow the signs from Buhl to Castleford, then drive six miles northwest through farmland to Balanced Rock.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Balanced Rock

Heading to Balanced Rock? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Balanced Rock?

No central reservation system listed for Balanced Rock. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2077) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Balanced Rock?

This is a spur trip off the Thousand Springs Tour. Follow the signs from Buhl to Castleford, then drive six miles northwest through farmland to Balanced Rock.

How do I contact Balanced Rock?

You can reach the park at phone: (208)736-2350 or email: [email protected].