Big Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Big Creek Falls
Big Creek Falls tumbles through a forested gorge in Wyoming’s Shoshone National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Framed by lodgepole and mixed-conifer stands, the falls are reached via the Big Cr Trail (USFS Trail #761.5), and make a rewarding destination for hikers looking for a relatively short, scenic outing in a less-developed corner of the national forest. The most common approach is an out-and-back day hike of about 3.0 miles with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. Follow the signed Big Cr Trail into quiet woods to reach viewpoints of the cascade; the route is popular with local day-hikers and offers a peaceful, backcountry feel while still being managed and maintained by the Forest Service.
The Setting
Big Creek Falls sits at 9,754 feet within Shoshone National Forest, fed by the North Fork Shoshone River, in the high alpine of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Big Cr Trail (#761.5), a 3.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is minimally developed (Class 1).
USFS Trail
BIG CR TRAIL #761.5
Trail Class
Minimally Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
8.48 miTrail Description
Trail: BIG CR TRAIL (USFS Trail #761.5). Type: out-and-back. Distance: 3.0 miles (round trip as commonly hiked). Elevation gain: ~500 ft. Difficulty: Moderate. Surface: native material (natural tread). USFS trail class: 1 (foot trail). Typical grade: 12–20% on the steeper pitches. USFS GIS record lists 8.48 miles for the trail alignment; the frequently used route to the falls is a 3.0-mile hike with uneven, natural tread and short steep sections.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when the trail is clear of snow and the waterfall flow is at its peak.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Shoshone National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
1,190 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 36 years of record
4.43 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Creek Falls is accessible via the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The trailhead is located near the town of Pinedale, Wyoming. Visitors should follow signs for the Big Sandy Trailhead, which provides access to the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
9754 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.582921° N, -109.599495° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
This trail sits at 9,754 ft — the air is noticeably thinner
High AltitudeSome visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.
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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.
Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)
Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.
Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex
Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 3.0 miles and 500 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.
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
Green Creek Inn and RV Park
The Historic Wapiti Lodge
Bill Cody Ranch
Cody Cowboy 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.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Fremont Lake, the Wind River Range, and the town of Pinedale.
Wildlife
The area is home to wildlife such as deer, elk, and various bird species. Be cautious of bears and carry bear spray.
Cities near Big Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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