Summary
Renowned for Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming is characterized by majestic mountains, oil rigs, and expansive plains, where visitors may still witness cowboys rounding up cattle, continuing age-old traditions.
While most of Wyoming’s waterfalls are situated within the aforementioned park, there are exceptions.
Please bear in mind that both the state and the park feature regions inhabited by wild predators including mountain lions, wolves, and bears. Therefore, it is advisable to create noise and carry a can of bear spray as a precaution.
Presented below are 15 of Wyoming’s most remarkable waterfalls.
1. Lower Falls
Yellowstone National Park attracts over four million visitors annually from various corners of the globe, with many coming to witness Lower Falls on the Yellowstone River.
At nearly 310 feet tall, these impressive falls are enveloped by a picturesque natural setting, serving as a splendid introduction to the park’s offerings.
Situated in an area known as ‘The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone,’ the falls are readily accessible from both edges of the gorge through which they flow.
The light-colored rock faces of the canyon provide a striking contrast to the surrounding pine trees and the rushing water.
2. The Wilderness Falls and Columbine Falls
For explorers seeking value without sacrificing quality, Wilderness Falls and Columbine Falls offer a dual experience within Grand Teton National Park.
Measuring 250 feet in height, their sheer scale is impressive; however, close proximity requires meticulous planning and effort.
If boating, hiking, and climbing are not preferred options, visitors can opt to view the falls from a distance, which is the choice of many.
The falls exhibit their most captivating form during early spring when they are invigorated by snowmelt.
3. Kepler Cascades
Located along Yellowstone’s Firehole River, Kepler Cascades descend over multiple tiers, totaling nearly 150 feet in elevation.
Due to their closeness to Old Faithful Village, these falls are included on numerous travel itineraries. Nonetheless, as they are easily visible from the roadway, most visitors simply capture a few photographs from their vehicles before continuing on to their next destination.
The falls bear the name of the son of a former governor of the Wyoming Territory from the late 19th century.
Although the base of the falls is reachable, it requires navigating a somewhat treacherous trail that may not be suitable for all.
4. Upper Falls
Similar to the Lower Falls, the Upper Falls are positioned within the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park.
While they are less frequented than their counterparts, the Upper Falls stand at nearly 110 feet tall and are truly impressive, especially in early spring when the water volume peaks.
The viewpoint offers a breathtaking perspective of the river above the falls as it meanders through dark rock before cascading into the expansive pool below.
With ample trails and parking available, there is no reason to overlook these falls.
5. Hidden Falls
Situated within Wyoming’s Grand Teton Mountains, Hidden Falls are distinguished by their grandeur and accessibility, attracting numerous visitors to the area.
Visitors can take advantage of the boats operating from Lake Jenny three times an hour for passage to the falls.
Alternatively, for those who prefer a more active approach, the falls are accessible via a 5.5-mile round trip hike.
Regardless of the mode of transport chosen, both the falls and the surrounding landscape will leave a lasting impression.
6. Terraced Falls
If you seek an uncharted experience reachable only by four-wheel drive, then Terraced Falls, located in the remote southwest section of Yellowstone National Park, are ideal for you.
The falls cascade nearly 130 feet in a stepped manner, with the tallest tier measuring approximately 50 feet.
These falls are found on Fall River in an area of the park known as Cascade Corner, celebrated for its abundance of waterfalls.
The journey to reach the falls consists of nearly 14 challenging miles, making planning essential for safe arrival.
7. Undine Falls
Situated in the illustrious Yellowstone National Park, Undine Falls descend approximately 60 feet from the edge of Lava Creek, cascading down a series of tiers into the pool below.
The falls are conveniently located near Mammoth Springs, featuring a pull-out area alongside the road for quick photographs before you proceed to your next destination.
Due to the falls’ visibility and accessibility from the road, minimal effort is required to view them; however, a closer look is attainable via a walking trail.
8. Firehole Falls
Located on the Firehole River in the southwestern part of Yellowstone, Firehole Falls plunge approximately 45 feet through significant lava rock formations that define the canyon walls.
There are several pull-out areas along the road for those who wish to walk to the falls, which are within a short distance.
The region below the falls is one of only two permitted swimming areas within Yellowstone National Park.
Firehole Falls presents an excellent location for swimming, picnicking, or simply enjoying the natural environment.
9. Tower Fall
Nestled along Tower Creek, Tower Fall cascades nearly 130 feet and derives its name from the tower-like rock formations that rise above it.
Despite their impressive stature, the falls often freeze during winter months when temperatures drop significantly and water flow diminishes.
Viewpoints surrounding the falls are easily accessible; visitors interested in a closer inspection may use a short but moderately challenging trail leading to the base.
For those present in the park during winter and equipped with calories to spare, the falls are viewable via cross-country skis or snowshoes.
10. Shell Falls
Cascading nearly 120 feet over a solid granite base, Shell Falls in Wyoming’s Bighorn National Forest should be prioritized during a visit to the region.
The falls are positioned on Shell Creek; the park features facilities, a visitor center, and a small museum dedicated to explaining the area’s history and geology prior to your exploration.
Some rock formations within the park are among the oldest on Earth, spanning nearly three billion years.
The falls and park are situated between Cody and Sheridan, Wyoming. In the event that the park is closed, accessing the falls remains an easy endeavor.
11. Gibbon Falls
With a drop of around 85 feet, Gibbon Falls is located just above the convergence of the Firehole and Gibbon Rivers along Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park.
Despite the presence of numerous grand waterfalls in the park, Gibbon Falls is frequently overlooked, making it a hidden treasure for those in pursuit of tranquility and natural beauty.
The majority of visitors who pause to observe the falls do so from the roadway or designated observation points, subsequently continuing on.
The scenic view of the granite constriction through which the water flows and the gorge behind the falls merits at least a few photographs.
12. Mystic Falls
Mystic Falls, also located along the Little Firehole River in Yellowstone, is a cascading waterfall with a drop of 70 feet.
The falls were officially discovered by a survey team in the late 19th century, although they were known to local Native Americans long before that timeline.
Access to the falls is available via Mystic Falls Trail, which is slightly longer than a mile. The trail runs above the water, so it is advisable to wear shoes with adequate grip and exercise caution.
During late fall and winter, the surrounding forest presents a sparse and striking appearance.
13. Iris Falls
Named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow, Iris Falls can be found on the Bechler River within Yellowstone National Park.
While these falls may not exhibit the majesty seen in other waterfalls at just under 50 feet, their beauty more than compensates for their modest height.
Situated between Colonnade Falls and Treasure Island in the park’s southwestern corner close to Idaho, the falls often form enchanting rainbows as sunlight refracts through the mist.
14. Moose Falls
Nestled on Crawfish Creek in Yellowstone, Moose Falls earned their name from the herds of moose frequently spotted in the vicinity.
Located near the park’s southern entrance, the falls are easily accessed from roadside parking and short trails leading towards them.
Standing 30 feet tall, both the crest and base can be reached effortlessly if you prefer a closer encounter rather than viewing from the roadside.
Trails leading by Moose Falls also connect to other nearby waterfalls, some of which are located miles away.
These paths are excellent for stretching your legs and avoiding the crowds.
15. Duck Creek Falls
Located within the Laramie Mountains in the isolated Laramie Peak Wildlife Habitat Management Area, Duck Creek Falls represent a hidden gem reachable only by determined adventurers.
This reserve nurtures populations of antelope and bighorn sheep, thriving in a challenging environment, relatively undisturbed by humans.
Situated a few hours from Cheyenne, Duck Creek Falls is not designated as a tourist location, resulting in a lack of signage.
The trek to the falls requires several hours, and given the presence of various wildlife, including potentially dangerous species, visitors are encouraged to exercise caution.
