Fairy Falls
A mostly flat, easy hike in Yellowstone leading to the vibrant Grand Prismatic Overlook and the serene Fairy Falls waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Fairy Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mostly flat, easy hike in Yellowstone leading to the vibrant Grand Prismatic Overlook and the serene Fairy Falls waterfall.
"Might be my favorite hike I’ve ever done. Easy with a huge waterfall payoff."
🐻 Carry Bear Spray
Essential for the Fairy Falls Trail. Always be prepared for wildlife encounters. :bear:
🚶♀️ Easy & Flat Hike
The Fairy Falls hike is mostly flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook
Trailhead junction
Witness the breathtaking, vibrant colors of Grand Prismatic Spring from a unique elevated perspective. A must-see!
Fairy Falls Waterfall
End of Fairy Falls Trail
A stunning, secluded waterfall offering a rewarding payoff after a pleasant walk. Perfect for photos.
Fairy Creek Trail Scenery
Fairy Falls Trail
Enjoy a peaceful, mostly flat walk alongside the scenic Fairy Creek, often with fewer people.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bear Safety is Paramount
Beat the Crowds for Grand Prismatic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Fairy Falls or Old Faithful in the morning?
🐻 Carry Bear Spray
Essential for the Fairy Falls Trail. Always be prepared for wildlife encounters. :bear:
🚶♀️ Easy & Flat Hike
The Fairy Falls hike is mostly flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
Do I need bear spray for fairy falls trail?
Fairy Falls is a great hike
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially near the creek. Pack repellent for comfort. :bug:
📸 Overlook First
Visit the Grand Prismatic Overlook before heading to the falls for the best views. :camerawithflash:
Fairy Falls in Yellowstone National Park. This was an easy 5 mile (round-trip) hike, and well worth it! I could have stayed at the falls all day. There is also a slight detour on the hike to see the Grand Prismatic from above which I'll post later.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐻 Carry Bear Spray
Essential for the Fairy Falls Trail. Always be prepared for wildlife encounters. :bear:
🚶♀️ Easy & Flat Hike
The Fairy Falls hike is mostly flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially near the creek. Pack repellent for comfort. :bug:
📸 Overlook First
Visit the Grand Prismatic Overlook before heading to the falls for the best views. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as there are no services on the trail. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Fairy Falls Trail, often calling it a favorite hike in Yellowstone. The easy, flat path leads to the stunning Grand Prismatic Overlook and the beautiful Fairy Falls waterfall, offering a rewarding experience with fewer crowds than other park attractions. Some note the prevalence of mosquitos and the need for bear safety precautions.
"First part of the trail goes past the trail to the Grand Prismatic Overlook. And the trail is mostly flat,"
Diane Meyers
"This was our favorite thing we did in five days at Yellowstone and might be my favorite hike I’ve ever done. The hike is very easy with a huge waterfall payoff. It was the only thing we did in the park that wasn’t crowded (we saw almost nobody after passing the grand prismatic overlook loop)"
Mary Morris
"Long flat trail."
kat hurst
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fairy Falls Trailhead is located off Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park, near Midway Geyser Basin. Parking can be limited, so arrive early.
Yes, there is a parking area for the Fairy Falls Trail. However, it fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider parking at Midway Geyser Basin and walking.
Yes, the trail to Fairy Falls starts just past the Grand Prismatic Overlook. You can combine both attractions into one hike.
The trail to the Grand Prismatic Overlook is separate, but the Fairy Falls Trail begins immediately after the overlook, allowing you to visit both.
The most common way is to drive to the Fairy Falls Trailhead. Alternatively, you can park at Midway Geyser Basin and walk to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fairy Falls is located within Yellowstone National Park, which requires an entrance fee per vehicle. No separate ticket is needed for the trail itself.
The park is open year-round, but the Fairy Falls Trail is best accessed during daylight hours. Winter access may be limited due to snow.
The only fee is the standard Yellowstone National Park entrance fee. The hike itself is free once inside the park.
No advance booking is necessary for Fairy Falls as it's a natural attraction within the national park. Pay the park entrance fee upon arrival.
Standard park regulations apply, including staying on marked trails, not feeding wildlife, and carrying bear spray.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Fairy Falls Trail is approximately 1.6 miles roundtrip to the waterfall, but can be extended to 5 miles if you continue to Imperial Geyser.
The hike to Fairy Falls and back typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the waterfall.
No, the Fairy Falls hike is considered easy. It's mostly flat with a well-maintained path, making it suitable for most visitors.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Layers are recommended as weather can change quickly in Yellowstone.
Restrooms are available at the trailhead parking area. There are no facilities along the trail itself.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the waterfall's beauty.
Yes, the trail passes by the Grand Prismatic Overlook, which is the prime spot for iconic photos of the spring.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in all national parks, including Yellowstone, to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
The base of the waterfall, the overlook of Grand Prismatic Spring, and along the scenic creek are all excellent photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities along the trail. Mosquito repellent is also a good idea, especially during warmer months. Most importantly, ensure children understand and follow wildlife safety guidelines, particularly regarding bear awareness.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own food and drinks for the day, as dining options within the park can be expensive. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when crowds are smaller and accommodations might be more affordable. Carpooling or using public transport options if available can also reduce travel costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Fairy Falls Trail
Beyond the overlook, the trail continues for another mile to reach the namesake Fairy Falls waterfall. This section is often less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience. The path meanders alongside Fairy Creek, adding to the scenic beauty. While the hike is generally easy, it's important to be prepared for potential wildlife encounters, especially bears.
Key Takeaways:
* The trail is mostly flat and easy, suitable for most visitors.
* It offers access to both the Grand Prismatic Overlook and Fairy Falls.
* Be prepared for crowds at the overlook, especially during peak hours.
* Always carry bear spray and be aware of your surroundings.
Wildlife Safety on the Trail
Redditors consistently emphasize the importance of bear safety. One user noted, 'The entire park is bear habitat, and you will be deep in the woods. The answer is yes. There's no reason not to have it with you anytime you're outdoors.'
Wildlife Safety Checklist:
* Carry bear spray and keep it accessible.
* Hike in groups if possible.
* Make noise (talk, sing) to alert animals of your presence.
* Maintain a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals).
* Never feed wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit