Located primarily in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park sprawls over 2.2 million acres of spectacular and wild beauty into parts of Montana and Idaho, making it one of the largest parks in the US National Park Service.
This geothermal hotspot is home to iconic sights such as Old Faithful geyser and Mammoth Hot Springs. Established in 1872, Yellowstone is the oldest national park in the United States. The park features an abundance of cold water in the form of cascades, curtains, and veils that gush down in varying intensities, making it an ideal destination for waterfall enthusiasts.
How Many Waterfalls Are There in Yellowstone National Park?
Quantifying the number of waterfalls within the park is challenging. Some may be minimal or seasonal, while others flow continuously throughout the year. However, it’s safe to say there are numerous waterfalls in the park. The beauty and appeal of each are subjective. Therefore, it’s advisable to approach your visit with an open mind and discover the waterfalls that resonate with you the most.
Best Waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park
Lower Falls: Best for the Highest Falls
Height: 308 feet
Best Viewing: The fastest way to see the falls is by driving along the one-way loop east of Canyon Village. There are several viewpoints, plus a strenuous walking trail leading to the top for a closer look.
Lower Falls is a true celebrity of Yellowstone National Park. It plunges down from a height of 308 feet, unleashing over 60,000 gallons of water per second during peak flow in springtime, dwindling to about 5,000 gallons per second in autumn.
Crystal Falls: Best Overlooked Waterfall
Height: 129 feet
Best Viewing: You can view Crystal Falls from the South Rim Trail, just east of the Upper Falls viewpoints.
This waterfall often goes unnoticed by visitors hurrying between more famous landmarks. However, this elegant, three-step cascade is one of the prettiest in the park, plunging dramatically towards the river below.
Mystic Falls: Best for Geothermal Surrounds
Height: 70 feet
Best Viewing: A 2.4-mile moderate hike along a trail will lead you to these falls. The trailhead is located .3 miles from the Biscuit Basin boardwalk.
Mystic Falls gushes from the Little Firehole River, surrounded by steam from geothermal features, creating a magical atmosphere. The journey to the falls is equally enchanting, as wildflowers bloom along the trail in summer.
Silver Cord Waterfall: Best Horsetail-Type Waterfall
Height: 1200 feet
Best Viewing: Hike along the Seven Mile Hole Trail for roughly one mile to see the Silver Cord Cascade.
This horsetail-style waterfall appears as a delicate line cascading down the sheer cliffs, creating a breathtaking sight fed by Surface Creek.
Firehole Falls: Best Falls for Swimming Downstream
Height: 40 feet
Best Viewing: Head down Firehole Canyon Drive (off the Grand Loop south of Madison) for an overlook view.
Surrounded by stunning canyon walls, Firehole Falls leads to tranquil waters suitable for swimming in warmer months, though the temperatures remain chilly.
Fairy Falls: Best Waterfall for a Day Hike
Height: 200 feet
Best Viewing: Walk 1.6 miles from Fairy Falls Parking Lot off Grand Loop Road.
The path leads through a picturesque forest to Fairy Falls, where the creek spills gracefully over rocky outcrops in a mesmerizing display.
Upper Falls: Best for Up-Close Views
Height: 109 feet
Best Viewing: Drive south from Canyon Village onto South Rim Drive and park at the first major area; a short walk to the Upper Falls lookout is required.
This waterfall offers dramatic views and is accessible via the steep Brink of the Upper Falls trail, allowing visitors to stand close to the cliff’s edge.
Undine Falls: Best for Families
Height: 60 feet
Best Viewing: View the falls from the roadside four miles east of Mammoth Hot Springs or hike the easy trail from Lava Creek Picnic Area.
Undine Falls, with its tiered cascade, is perfect for families, providing beautiful views and easy access through blooming wildflower paths.
Tower Falls: Best for Photography Fun
Height: 132 feet
Best Viewing: Walk a short distance from the parking area on Grand Loop Road to Tower Fall Overlook.
This waterfall is ideal for photography, offering ample opportunities to capture stunning pictures against a backdrop of lush scenery and distinctive rock formations.
Kepler Cascades: Best for Accessibility
Height: 150 feet
Best Viewing: Drive approximately 2.5 miles south of Old Faithful to reach the Kepler Cascade overlook.
This three-tiered roadside waterfall is easily accessible and presents an inviting sight for those who prefer minimal hiking.
