Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Bechler Falls
Bechler Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the southwestern corner of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It is part of the Bechler River and is known for its serene beauty and accessibility.
The Setting
Bechler Falls sits at 6,342 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Snake River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Dunanda Falls (150 ft) lies 6.8 miles to the north. Also nearby: Cave Falls (20 ft, 0.7 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Bechler Falls is a short and relatively flat hike along the Bechler River. It is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding forest.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a forested area leading to a small but beautiful waterfall. The area is less crowded compared to other parts of Yellowstone, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bechler Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bechler Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Bechler Falls is late spring through early fall when the trail is accessible and the weather is pleasant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Visitors should be aware of potential wildlife encounters, including bears. Carry bear spray and make noise while hiking. Check weather and trail conditions before visiting, as the area can be muddy or inaccessible during certain times of the year.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 17.3 miles away
925 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 42 years of record
3.54 ft
Water depth at gauge
61°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 61 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SNAKE RIVER AB JACKSON LAKE AT FLAGG RANCH WY (28 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
917 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
1010 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
979 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
992 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
942 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
837 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
786 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Alta hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Bechler Falls is accessed via the Bechler River Trail, which starts near the Bechler Ranger Station in the southwest region of Yellowstone National Park. The trailhead is located off Cave Falls Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the Bechler Ranger Station. Visitors should check for seasonal road conditions as Cave Falls Road may be closed during winter or after heavy rains.
Elevation
6,342 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.149091° N, -111.009940° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially in spring. Bring insect repellent during summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Check road conditions before visiting, as access roads may be closed during certain seasons.
This trail sits at 6,342 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 25% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch
Teton Peaks Resort
Heart Six Ranch
Colter Bay Village
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Cave Falls Campground
1.4 miles away · 0 sites
This campgrond is situated on the banks of Fall River in Wyoming along the south border of Yellowstone National Park. Cave Falls Campground has 23 single site units and a terrific area for fishing. Each campsite has fire rings, grills and picnic tables. Located throughout the campground are vault toilets, water faucets, bear proof storage boxes, and a dumpster. The campground is located in grizzly bear habitat that requires special precautions be taken with food storage.
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Nearby Attractions
Cave Falls, Bechler Meadows, and other waterfalls in the Bechler region of Yellowstone National Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and birds. Visitors should carry bear spray and follow park guidelines for wildlife safety.
Cities near Bechler Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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