Wraith Falls
Discover Wraith Falls, a unique 79-foot cascade on Lupine Creek, accessible via an easy 1-mile hike through Yellowstone's sagebrush and firs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak water flow for falls
Wraith Falls
Best Time
Peak water flow for falls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Wraith Falls, a unique 79-foot cascade on Lupine Creek, accessible via an easy 1-mile hike through Yellowstone's sagebrush and firs.
"Easy 10 minute hike to a beautiful fall. The last portion of the hike can be slippery so make sure to wear good hiking shoes."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The last part of the trail can be slippery. Good hiking shoes are a must!
💧 Visit During Wet Season
Falls are much more impressive with higher water flow. Avoid fall if you want to see it at its best.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wraith Falls Cascade
End of the trail
A unique 79-foot waterfall cascading down a large rock face. Best seen when water flow is high.
Scenic Sagebrush Trail
Trailhead to falls
A pleasant 1-mile roundtrip hike through open sagebrush and fir forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Footwear for Wraith Falls
Timing Your Visit for Optimal Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Easiest Hike to a Waterfall in Yellowstone?
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The last part of the trail can be slippery. Good hiking shoes are a must!
💧 Visit During Wet Season
Falls are much more impressive with higher water flow. Avoid fall if you want to see it at its best.
Which 3 trails listed below are the most scenic and offer the most beautiful experience in your opinion
Best Yellowstone trails and hikes to really see the park, in your opinions and experiences
🚶♀️ Easy Family Hike
A short, 1-mile roundtrip trail suitable for most fitness levels.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The last part of the trail can be slippery. Good hiking shoes are a must!
💧 Visit During Wet Season
Falls are much more impressive with higher water flow. Avoid fall if you want to see it at its best.
🚶♀️ Easy Family Hike
A short, 1-mile roundtrip trail suitable for most fitness levels.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wraith Falls is praised for its easy, family-friendly 1-mile hike through scenic terrain. Visitors appreciate the unique cascade, though some find the falls less impressive during drier seasons. The trail's final section can be slippery, requiring good footwear.
"Easy hike for the whole family. Very unique waterfall at the end that cascades down a large rock."
Cameron Flewellen
"Take a short, 1 mile hike round trip through open sagebrush and fir forest to the long 79-foot cascade of Wraith Falls on Lupine Creek. A few staircases on the end of trail up to the overlook platform. There is no much water during fall."
J Y
"Easy 10 minute hike to a beautiful fall. The last portion of the hike can be slippery so make sure to wear good hiking shoes."
JP Bouchard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wraith Falls is located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area of Yellowstone National Park. The trailhead is accessible from the Grand Loop Road. It's a relatively short drive from Mammoth Hot Springs.
Yes, the trailhead for Wraith Falls is accessible by car. There is a parking area available near the start of the trail.
The closest major landmark to Wraith Falls is Mammoth Hot Springs. The falls are a short drive south of the Mammoth Hot Springs area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need a valid Yellowstone National Park entrance pass to access Wraith Falls. Passes can be purchased at park entrances or online in advance.
There are no additional fees specifically for the Wraith Falls trail beyond the general Yellowstone National Park entrance fee.
Wraith Falls is accessible year-round during park operating hours. However, trail conditions can vary significantly with weather, especially in winter.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Wraith Falls is approximately 1 mile roundtrip. It's a short and relatively easy walk.
The trail is considered easy, with some staircases at the end. The main concern is slipperiness after rain.
The elevation gain is minimal, making it suitable for most visitors, including those with moderate fitness levels.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted at most waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park due to safety concerns and park regulations.
The trail winds through open sagebrush and fir forest, offering a pleasant natural landscape before reaching the waterfall.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the falls are beautiful throughout the day. Consider the water flow for the most dramatic shots.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful to capture the full cascade and surrounding landscape.
Yes, there is an overlook platform at the end of the trail that provides a good vantage point for photographing the falls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Seniors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Cascade of Wraith Falls
Visitors often note that the falls are most impressive during the spring and early summer months, or after significant rainfall. During drier periods, particularly in the fall, the water flow can be considerably reduced, altering the visual impact. This seasonality is a key factor for those planning a visit specifically to witness the falls in their full glory.
Navigating the Wraith Falls Trail
However, the final section leading to the overlook platform involves a few staircases. This part of the trail can become quite slippery, especially after rain or during wet seasons. It's crucial for visitors to wear appropriate footwear with good traction, such as hiking boots or sturdy athletic shoes, to ensure safety and comfort.
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