Waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, renowned for its geothermal wonders and vast wilderness, is also home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the United States. These cascading wonders, formed by the park’s numerous rivers and streams, add to the dramatic scenery and provide visitors with unforgettable views. 

From towering drops that thunder into deep canyons to more serene and hidden falls nestled in lush forests, Yellowstone's waterfalls are as varied as they are beautiful. Each waterfall offers a unique glimpse into the park's geological history and natural splendor, making them must-see attractions for anyone exploring this iconic landscape.

1. Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River

The Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River is one of Yellowstone National Park's most impressive and accessible waterfalls. Located just upstream from the more famous Lower Falls, the Upper Falls drops 109 feet (33 meters) as the Yellowstone River plunges over a rugged cliff into the dramatic canyon below. The sheer power of the water as it crashes down creates a thundering roar that can be heard from various vantage points around the falls.

The Upper Falls is easily accessible from several viewpoints, with one of the most popular being the Brink of the Upper Falls Trail. This short trail leads visitors to a platform that offers a close-up view of the waterfall’s crest, where the river narrows and surges over the edge with incredible force. Another excellent viewing spot is from Uncle Tom's Trail, which provides a more distant perspective, allowing visitors to appreciate the falls within the context of the surrounding canyon.

The Upper Falls, along with the Lower Falls, plays a significant role in shaping the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, carving out the steep, colorful walls of the canyon over thousands of years. The falls are a testament to the raw power of nature and are a must-see for anyone visiting Yellowstone National Park.

Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River

2. Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River

The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River is the most iconic and dramatic waterfall in Yellowstone National Park. Plunging 308 feet (94 meters) into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, it is nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls, making it the tallest waterfall in the park. The immense power of the water as it crashes into the canyon below creates a mesmerizing spectacle, with mist rising from the base and a rainbow often visible in the spray.

The Lower Falls is a central feature of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a striking landscape characterized by its steep, colorful walls that have been eroded over millennia by the relentless force of the river. The combination of the waterfall's sheer drop and the vivid hues of the canyon makes this one of the most photographed and painted scenes in the entire park.

Several viewpoints offer breathtaking perspectives of the Lower Falls. Artist Point, perhaps the most famous, provides a panoramic view of the waterfall framed by the canyon's dramatic cliffs. The Lookout Point and Red Rock Point trails offer closer views, allowing visitors to experience the falls' power and beauty up close. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail takes hikers to the very edge of the falls, where they can watch the river plunge over the precipice.

The Lower Falls is not only a natural wonder but also a symbol of Yellowstone's rugged beauty and geological history. It draws millions of visitors each year, all eager to witness the awe-inspiring power and grandeur of this magnificent waterfall.

Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River

Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River

3. Gibbon Falls

Gibbon Falls is a picturesque waterfall located on the Gibbon River in Yellowstone National Park, offering a serene and accessible natural wonder for visitors to enjoy. Situated between Norris Geyser Basin and Madison Junction, this 84 feet (26-meter) waterfall cascades down a gently sloping rock face, creating a wide and graceful flow that contrasts with the park's more dramatic waterfalls.

The falls are easily accessible from the road, making it a popular stop for visitors traveling through this section of the park. A short, paved walkway leads to a viewpoint that offers excellent views of Gibbon Falls as it tumbles over the edge and continues its journey downstream. The surrounding landscape, characterized by rugged cliffs and dense forests, adds to the scenic beauty of the area.

Gibbon Falls is also historically significant, as it was named by early park explorers in honor of Colonel John Gibbon, a military officer who played a role in the protection and management of Yellowstone during its early years as a national park. Today, the waterfall remains a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers, offering a tranquil and easily accessible glimpse of Yellowstone's natural splendor.

Gibbon Falls

Gibbon Falls

Gibbon Falls

4. Tower Falls

Tower Fall is one of Yellowstone National Park's most captivating waterfalls, known for its dramatic setting and unique geological features. Located in the northeastern part of the park near Tower Junction, Tower Fall drops 132 feet (40 meters) as it cascades down a steep rock face into the Yellowstone River below. What makes this waterfall particularly striking are the towering volcanic rock spires, known as hoodoos, that frame the falls, giving the area its name.

The waterfall has been a source of inspiration for visitors since the early days of Yellowstone's exploration. Thomas Moran, the renowned landscape artist, was so captivated by the beauty of Tower Fall that he included it in his paintings, which played a significant role in promoting the establishment of Yellowstone as the first national park in the United States.

Tower Fall is easily accessible from the road, with a short trail leading to an overlook that provides a stunning view of the waterfall and the surrounding canyon. Though the trail that once led to the base of the falls is no longer maintained due to erosion, the overlook still offers a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the falls' power and the scenic beauty of the area.

The nearby Tower General Store and campground make this area a convenient stop for visitors exploring the northern part of Yellowstone. Tower Fall, with its dramatic drop and the striking rock formations that surround it, remains one of the park's most beloved and photographed waterfalls.

Tower Falls

Tower Falls

5. Firehole Falls

Firehole Falls is a beautiful and somewhat lesser-known waterfall in Yellowstone National Park, offering visitors a chance to experience the park's natural beauty in a more secluded setting. Located on the Firehole River in the park's western region, Firehole Falls drops about 40 feet (12 meters) as the river flows through a narrow canyon of dark volcanic rock.

The waterfall is situated along the scenic Firehole Canyon Drive, a one-way road that winds through the canyon, offering several pullouts where visitors can stop and admire the falls. The narrow, twisting canyon walls surrounding Firehole Falls create a dramatic backdrop, while the river’s rushing water adds a sense of wild energy to the scene.

The area around Firehole Falls is known for its geothermal activity, with the river often warmed by hot springs and geysers in the upper basin. This warm water creates a unique ecosystem, allowing certain species of fish to thrive even in the cold winter months.

In the summer, a popular swimming area is located downstream of the falls, where visitors can enjoy a dip in the warm waters of the Firehole River. Though the swimming area is not directly at the falls, it adds to the attraction of this picturesque spot, making Firehole Falls a favorite among those seeking both beauty and adventure in Yellowstone National Park.

Firehole Falls

6. Mystic Falls

Mystic Falls is a captivating waterfall located in the Biscuit Basin area of Yellowstone National Park, offering a blend of scenic beauty and tranquility that makes it a favorite among hikers and nature enthusiasts. The falls are formed by the Little Firehole River as it cascades down a series of rock terraces, dropping about 70 feet (21 meters) in a multi-tiered waterfall that is as enchanting as its name suggests.

Mystic Falls is accessible via a moderate hike along the Mystic Falls Trail, which begins in Biscuit Basin, just a few miles from Old Faithful. The trail, approximately 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers) round trip, winds through a diverse landscape, including geothermal features, dense forests, and open meadows, before arriving at the falls. Along the way, hikers are treated to views of Biscuit Basin’s colorful hot springs and geysers, adding to the overall experience.

The falls are set in a secluded location, surrounded by tall pine trees and rocky cliffs, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere. The sound of the cascading water and the cool mist in the air make Mystic Falls a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat, away from the more crowded areas of the park.

For those seeking an even more expansive view, a loop trail continues from the falls up to a ridge, where hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Upper Geyser Basin and the distant mountains. Whether as a destination for a short hike or as part of a longer adventure, Mystic Falls offers a wonderful combination of natural beauty and solitude in Yellowstone National Park.

Mystic Falls

7. Lewis Falls

Lewis Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the southern part of Yellowstone National Park, near the park's South Entrance. The waterfall is formed by the Lewis River as it flows over a rocky ledge, dropping about 30 feet (9 meters) into a wide pool below. While not as tall or as dramatic as some of Yellowstone's other waterfalls, Lewis Falls is charming in its own right, offering visitors a serene and easily accessible natural attraction.

The falls are situated just off the road along the highway between Grant Village and the South Entrance, making them a convenient stop for travelers entering or leaving the park. A short trail leads from the parking area to a viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy close-up views of the waterfall and the surrounding forest.

The area around Lewis Falls is known for its lush greenery, with dense forests of pine and spruce trees lining the riverbanks. The falls are especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight filters through the trees and creates a peaceful, almost ethereal atmosphere.

In addition to its scenic beauty, the Lewis River is a popular spot for fishing, with anglers often seen casting their lines in the waters near the falls. The proximity of Lewis Falls to other attractions in the southern part of the park, such as Lewis Lake and the Snake River, makes it a great addition to any Yellowstone itinerary. Whether as a quick stop or a place to linger and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Lewis Falls provides a lovely glimpse of the natural beauty that defines Yellowstone National Park.

Lewis Falls

8. Undine Falls

Undine Falls is a striking waterfall located in the northern part of Yellowstone National Park, near Mammoth Hot Springs. The falls are formed by Lava Creek as it cascades down a series of three distinct drops, totaling about 60 feet (18 meters) in height. The waterfall is named after the mythical water spirits known as "undines," which, according to legend, inhabit waterfalls and other bodies of water.

Undine Falls is easily accessible from the road, with a viewing area located just off the Grand Loop Road between Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower Junction. From the overlook, visitors can admire the waterfall as it tumbles over the rugged, basaltic rock formations into the wooded canyon below. The setting is serene, with the surrounding forest and canyon walls creating a picturesque frame for the cascading water.

The falls are particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the landscape. The area around Undine Falls is also rich in wildlife, and visitors may spot elk, bison, or even black bears in the vicinity, adding to the allure of this peaceful spot.

Undine Falls is a relatively quiet and less crowded destination compared to some of Yellowstone's more famous waterfalls, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a more tranquil and intimate experience with the park's natural beauty. The falls can be visited year-round, with the changing seasons bringing different perspectives and moods to this enchanting waterfall.

Undine Falls

Undine Falls

9. Kepler Cascades

Kepler Cascades is a captivating waterfall located in the southwestern part of Yellowstone National Park, along the Firehole River. Known for its cascading series of drops, Kepler Cascades offers a picturesque and relatively easy-to-access natural attraction for visitors.

The waterfall is named after the 17th-century astronomer Johannes Kepler, reflecting the tradition of naming Yellowstone’s features after notable figures in science and exploration. The cascades descend about 150 feet (46 meters) in a series of steps over a rocky ledge, creating a multi-tiered effect that is both dramatic and beautiful.

Kepler Cascades is conveniently located along the Firehole Canyon Drive, a scenic one-way road that runs through the Firehole River Canyon. A short walk from the parking area leads to a viewpoint overlooking the falls, providing a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the waterfall's full splendor. The surrounding landscape, characterized by lush forests and rugged canyon walls, adds to the scenic beauty of the area.

The waterfall is particularly striking in the summer and early fall when the surrounding foliage is at its peak, and the river's flow is strong. In the winter, the area takes on a serene, snowy landscape, offering a different kind of beauty.

Kepler Cascades is a great stop for those exploring the southwestern region of Yellowstone, offering a blend of natural beauty and accessibility that makes it a memorable part of any visit to the park.

Kepler Cascades

10. Union Falls

Union Falls is one of Yellowstone National Park's more remote and lesser-known waterfalls, located in the park’s southwestern corner near the boundary of the Thorofare region. This hidden gem is notable for its scenic beauty and the rugged, relatively untouched environment that surrounds it.

The Union Falls waterfall is formed by Mountain Ash Creek, which is a tributary of the Fall River. The unique fan-shaped cascade occurs as the creek descends 250 feet (76 meters) over a rocky ledge. Union Falls is the second tallest waterfall in Yellowstone, surpassed only by the famous Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. 

The waterfall gets its name from the confluence of a tributary that joins Mountain Ash Creek right at the brink of the falls, creating a "union" of waters before they plunge down in a dramatic and visually striking descent.

Getting to Union Falls requires a hike of around 6 to 7 miles (10 to 11 kilometers) round trip from the trailhead at the end of the Two Ocean Lake Road. The trail to the falls traverses a variety of landscapes, including forested areas, open meadows, and the banks of the Snake River. The hike can be challenging due to the uneven terrain and elevation changes, but it rewards visitors with spectacular views of the waterfall and its surrounding scenery.

Due to its more remote location, Union Falls receives fewer visitors compared to Yellowstone's more famous waterfalls. This relative solitude allows for a more peaceful and immersive experience, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path exploration of the park.

Union Falls

11. Crystal Falls

Crystal Falls is a hidden gem in Yellowstone National Park, located between the renowned Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. This striking 129-foot waterfall is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but offers its own serene beauty. Tucked away along the South Rim Trail, just east of Uncle Tom’s Trail, Crystal Falls provides a peaceful retreat amid the park's grandeur.

The South Rim Trail offers a 4.1-mile hike where you can experience all three waterfalls—Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and Crystal Falls—on a single journey. The trail is of moderate difficulty, making it accessible to most hikers while still offering a rewarding adventure through some of Yellowstone’s most stunning landscapes. Crystal Falls, with its cascading waters and tranquil setting, is a must-see for those looking to explore beyond the park's main attractions.

Crystal Falls

12. Fairy Falls

Fairy Falls is a stunning and relatively accessible waterfall located in Yellowstone National Park, just south of the Midway Geyser Basin. The falls cascade about 200 feet (61 meters) over a series of rocky ledges, creating a striking and picturesque drop. Named for its ethereal beauty, Fairy Falls is a favorite among visitors for its impressive height and the scenic setting in which it is found.

To reach Fairy Falls, visitors can take a relatively easy hike from the Fairy Falls Trailhead, which is located along the road between the Old Faithful area and the Midway Geyser Basin. The round-trip hike to the falls is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. The trail begins through a forested area and eventually opens up to reveal views of the surrounding landscape, including the Grand Prismatic Spring overlook, which offers a fantastic perspective on one of Yellowstone's most famous geothermal features.

As you approach Fairy Falls, the sound of the cascading water becomes more pronounced, enhancing the sense of tranquility and natural beauty. The falls are particularly striking in the summer when the surrounding meadows are in full bloom, and the sunlight creates vibrant rainbows in the mist.

For those looking for a longer hike, the trail continues past Fairy Falls to the Imperial Geyser and the more remote Black Sand Basin, providing additional opportunities to explore Yellowstone's diverse geothermal and natural landscapes.

Fairy Falls is a must-visit destination for those exploring the southwestern part of the park, offering a blend of natural beauty and ease of access that makes it a memorable part of any Yellowstone adventure.

Fairy Falls

13. Cave Falls

Cave Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the southeastern corner of Yellowstone National Park, near the park's boundary with Grand Teton National Park. This relatively remote and scenic waterfall is formed by the Falls River as it cascades over a series of rocky ledges. 

It is a unique waterfall in Yellowstone National Park, standing at 20 feet tall and spanning an impressive 250 feet in width. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense forests and the rocky terrain of the Falls River Canyon, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting.

To reach Cave Falls, visitors need to travel along the Cave Falls Road, which is a gravel road that runs through the park's backcountry. The road is accessible from the Bechler Ranger Station area, and a short hike from the road leads to the falls. The trail to Cave Falls is relatively easy, making it a pleasant destination for those looking to explore the park's less-traveled regions.

Due to its remote location and less frequented nature, Cave Falls provides a more secluded and tranquil experience compared to some of Yellowstone's more famous waterfalls, making it a great spot for those seeking solitude and a closer connection with the park's natural beauty.

Cave Falls

14. Bechler Falls

Bechler Falls is a captivating waterfall located in the southwestern part of Yellowstone National Park, within the Bechler region. This beautiful and somewhat remote waterfall is formed by the Bechler River as it cascades over a series of rocky ledges, creating a picturesque and multi-tiered drop. It is a 15 feet (4.6 meters) tall waterfall.

To reach Bechler Falls, visitors typically start from the Bechler Ranger Station, located in the southern part of the park. The hike to the falls is part of the Bechler River Trail, which is known for its scenic views and relatively remote setting. The trail to the falls is approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers) round trip, and it traverses through a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, and river valleys.

Bechler Falls is a hidden gem within Yellowstone, offering a peaceful and immersive experience in the park's less-visited backcountry. The falls are particularly beautiful during the summer months when the surrounding meadows are in full bloom, and the water flow is strong, creating a stunning visual and auditory experience.

Due to its remote location and the length of the hike required to reach it, Bechler Falls is less crowded than some of Yellowstone's more famous waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with the park's natural beauty.

Bechler Falls

15. Rustic Falls

Rustic Falls is a bell-shaped waterfall that gracefully cascades down a 47-foot basalt cliff in Yellowstone National Park. This delightful waterfall is formed by the stream that cascades down a series of rocky steps, creating a graceful and multi-tiered drop.

Rustic Falls

Rustic Falls

16. Wraith Falls

Wraith Falls is located about 5 miles east of Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park, making it easily accessible for most visitors. Wraith Falls cascades 100 feet (30 meters) down the mountain.

The hike to the falls is short and suitable for almost everyone, although it’s not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. There is a small turnout where you can park, and the hike itself is about 0.5 miles one way, totaling 1 mile for the round trip. Due to its short length, the trail can see significant foot traffic.

Wraith Falls