Firehole Falls Yellowstone National Park
A picturesque 40-ft. waterfall on the Firehole River, accessible via a scenic drive with easy pull-offs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Optimal lighting & fewer crowds
Firehole Falls Yellowstone National Park
Best Time
Optimal lighting & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque 40-ft. waterfall on the Firehole River, accessible via a scenic drive with easy pull-offs.
"A beautiful spot for a quick drive, offering a scenic and refreshing view without a long hike.
"🚫 No RVs on Canyon Road
RVs, campers, and buses cannot drive Firehole Canyon Road. Plan your route to avoid this restriction. :car:
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Lush greenery and unique rock formations surround the falls, making it a great spot for photos. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Firehole Falls
Firehole River
A stunning 40-ft. waterfall cascading over volcanic rock, offering picturesque views and a serene atmosphere.

Scenic Drive
Firehole Canyon Road
A picturesque drive along the Firehole River with multiple overlooks to admire the natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
RV Access Restrictions
Quick Scenic Stop
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Firehole Lake Loop Hike October 2023
🚫 No RVs on Canyon Road
RVs, campers, and buses cannot drive Firehole Canyon Road. Plan your route to avoid this restriction.
:car:📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Lush greenery and unique rock formations surround the falls, making it a great spot for photos.
:camerawithflash:Kid friendly swimming holes?
RV! Firehole Canyon?
🐾 Wildlife Awareness
Always keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter in the area.
:deer:🚗 Easy Pull-Off Access
The falls are easily accessible from the parking area, perfect for a quick, refreshing stop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No RVs on Canyon Road
RVs, campers, and buses cannot drive Firehole Canyon Road. Plan your route to avoid this restriction.
:car:📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Lush greenery and unique rock formations surround the falls, making it a great spot for photos.
:camerawithflash:🐾 Wildlife Awareness
Always keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter in the area.
:deer:🚗 Easy Pull-Off Access
The falls are easily accessible from the parking area, perfect for a quick, refreshing stop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Firehole Falls for its stunning beauty and easy accessibility, making it a highly recommended quick stop in Yellowstone. While not a major attraction, its picturesque waterfall and scenic drive offer a refreshing natural experience. Some note the road's narrowness and RV restrictions, but overall, it's seen as a worthwhile and beautiful addition to any Yellowstone itinerary.
"It is a small road, so you can't take campers through. It is a beautiful waterfall, its on a side loop that you drive, so you just pull over and step out of the car and it's there."
Sadie Kane
"4.5/5 Stars: Firehole Falls, Yellowstone
I recently visited Firehole Falls in Yellowstone National Park, and it was a breathtaking experience! This picturesque waterfall is nestled in the Firehole River and offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Scenic Views: The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and unique rock formations, making for a perfect photo opportunity.
- Easy Access: The falls are easily accessible via a short hike from the parking area, making it a great spot for families or those with mobility limitations.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: The sound of the rushing water and the surrounding natural beauty create a peaceful and calming atmosphere.
Tips:
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.
- Be Mindful of Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from any wildlife that may be in the area.
Overall Experience:
Firehole Falls is a must-visit destination in Yellowstone National Park. The scenic views, easy access, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot to relax and connect with nature. Don't miss this gem on your Yellowstone adventure!"
Abhay Gupta
"This is a cool area to drive to. There’s different overlooks are few places to stop"
Nelida Safrit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Firehole Falls is located along Firehole Canyon Road, a scenic loop off Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park. The road itself offers beautiful views and pull-offs.
No, RVs, campers, and buses are prohibited from driving through Firehole Canyon Road. You'll need to use a different vehicle or plan your visit accordingly.
No, Firehole Falls is easily accessible via a short walk from the parking area, making it a convenient stop for most visitors.
The best way is to drive the scenic Firehole Canyon Road, stopping at the designated overlooks to admire the falls and surrounding landscape.
Absolutely! Firehole Falls is a beautiful spot for a quick drive and offers a scenic view without requiring a long hike, perfect for those with limited time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Firehole Falls is located within Yellowstone National Park, so you will need a valid park entrance pass to access it.
Firehole Canyon Road is typically open seasonally, generally from late May or early June through October, weather permitting. Always check the official Yellowstone National Park website for current road status.
The entrance fee is for Yellowstone National Park itself, not specifically for Firehole Falls. The fee is per vehicle and valid for 7 days.
No, Firehole Canyon Road is a seasonal road and is closed during the winter months due to snow and ice.
There are no specific restrictions on photography, but always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the waterfall, take photos, enjoy the scenic drive, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Restroom facilities are typically available at designated pull-offs along Firehole Canyon Road.
Yes, it's a great spot for families as it's easily accessible and offers beautiful scenery without a demanding hike.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted directly at Firehole Falls due to strong currents and the nature of the falls.
You might see various animals common to Yellowstone, such as bison, elk, or birds. Always maintain a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to emphasize wildlife safety and keep a close eye on children near the overlooks. The scenic drive itself is also enjoyable for kids, offering changing views of the river and canyon. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited along this specific stretch of road.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Prioritize this stop if you're looking for scenic beauty that doesn't require extensive physical exertion. Just be mindful of the RV restrictions on Firehole Canyon Road and ensure your vehicle is suitable for the narrow, winding path.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Firehole Canyon Road
As you drive, you'll encounter several pull-offs and overlooks, each providing a unique vantage point of the river and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The most prominent feature is Firehole Falls, a beautiful cascade that plunges over dark, rugged rock formations. The sound of the water and the visual spectacle make it a memorable stop. Remember to drive cautiously and be aware of other vehicles and pedestrians.
Pro Tip: The best times to drive this road are early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These times offer softer lighting for photography and tend to have fewer visitors, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Always check the park's official website for the most current road opening and closing dates, as it's a seasonal route.
Photography at Firehole Falls
Consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The low-angled sunlight can create dramatic shadows and highlights, enhancing the textures of the rocks and the flow of the water. If you're visiting mid-day, look for shaded areas or use a polarizing filter to manage harsh sunlight and reflections on the water. The scenic drive leading to the falls also offers numerous opportunities for landscape photography, capturing the winding river and the vast Yellowstone scenery.
Key Photography Tips:
* Use a tripod for sharper images, especially with slower shutter speeds to capture water movement.
* Experiment with different angles from the various overlooks.
* Look for wildlife along the riverbanks – they can add an exciting element to your photos.
* Be patient and wait for the best light and fewer crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit