The Twin Falls Idaho Temple is the 128th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Twin Falls, Idaho, the temple sits just south of the spectacular Snake River Canyon and serves members throughout southern Idaho. Inspired by nearby Shoshone Falls, often called the "Niagara of the West," the temple incorporates beautiful waterfall themes throughout its architecture, landscaping, and artwork.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Twin Falls Idaho Temple during the October 2004 General Conference on October 2, 2004. For many years before the announcement, Church members throughout southern Idaho had traveled two hours or more to attend temples in Boise, Idaho Falls, or neighboring states. In fact, in 1996, fourteen stake presidents from the Magic Valley jointly wrote President Hinckley expressing their hope that a temple might someday be built in Twin Falls.
President Hinckley personally visited Twin Falls in June 2004 to select a temple site from several properties under consideration. The Church ultimately purchased part of the former Candleridge Golf Course, retaining just over 9 acres for the temple and an adjacent meetinghouse. Groundbreaking services were held on April 15, 2006, with Elder Neil L. Andersen presiding.
The temple welcomed visitors during a 36-day public open house from July 11 through August 16, 2008. Nearly 160,000 visitors toured the temple—about 10,000 more than expected. President Thomas S. Monson dedicated the temple on August 24, 2008, making it the 128th operating temple of the Church and the fourth temple built in Idaho.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Twin Falls Idaho Temple was intentionally designed to reflect the area's most famous natural landmark—Shoshone Falls. Waterfall motifs appear throughout the exterior stonework, stained-glass windows, landscaping, and even the entrance, where a pair of waterfall features welcome visitors. The temple's murals, painted by Idaho artist Leon Parson, also showcase local landscapes, including Shoshone Falls itself.
The temple contains approximately 31,245 square feet and features two progressive instruction rooms, three sealing rooms, and one baptistry. The exterior is finished with precast concrete panels with a quartz rock finish, and the 152-foot, 10-inch single attached end spire rises above the surrounding landscape, making it visible from the nearby Perrine Bridge and Snake River Canyon.
Another distinctive feature is the extensive use of Idaho's state flower, the syringa, throughout the temple. Artist Tom Holdman created approximately 200 stained-glass windows containing nearly 12,000 individual pieces of glass, many featuring syringa blossoms. Fine materials from around the world—including African wood, Indian granite, and Montana stone—were used throughout the temple's interior.
Visiting the Temple
The Twin Falls Idaho Temple is located at:
1405 Eastland Drive North
Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. Temple clothing rental is not available, although baptistry clothing is provided. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds and peaceful setting overlooking the surrounding area.
Fun Facts
- 128th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Fourth temple built in Idaho.
- Announced on October 2, 2004.
- Groundbreaking held on April 15, 2006.
- Dedicated by President Thomas S. Monson on August 24, 2008.
- Public open house lasted 36 days.
- Nearly 160,000 people attended the open house.
- Built on a 9.1-acre site.
- Approximately 31,245 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, three sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Stands 152 feet, 10 inches tall.
- Inspired by nearby Shoshone Falls and features Idaho's syringa flower throughout its design.
Final Thoughts
The Twin Falls Idaho Temple beautifully captures the natural beauty of southern Idaho while providing a sacred place for worship and family ordinances. Its waterfall-inspired architecture, stunning stained glass, and location near the Snake River Canyon make it one of Idaho's most distinctive temples. Whether you're attending an ordinance or simply enjoying the peaceful grounds, the Twin Falls Idaho Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
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