Cave Falls
Wyoming • 20 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cave Falls
Cave Falls is a picturesque waterfall located on the Falls River in the southwestern corner of Yellowstone National Park, near the Wyoming-Idaho border. It is known for its wide cascade and serene surroundings, making it a popular spot for visitors seeking a quieter experience compared to other Yellowstone attractions.
The Setting
Cave Falls sits at 6,283 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Snake River, in the high mountains of Wyoming. The falls drop 20 feet.
Height: 20 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Cave Falls is very short and easy, leading directly from the parking area to the waterfall. It is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 20 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cave Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cave Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Cave Falls, as the water flow is strongest during this period.
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 exercise caution near the water, as the rocks can be slippery. Be aware of wildlife in the area and carry bear spray if hiking in the surrounding region.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 16.7 miles away
242 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 42 years of record
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 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 (27 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
241 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
239 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
238 cfs
5/10Mon
Low
255 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
244 cfs
6/10Wed
Barely Flowing
235 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
236 cfs
5/10Best window: Tue — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
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
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 80 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 20 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 6,283 feet.
The ground changes about 73 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 46 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 6,283 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 80 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cave Falls is accessible via Cave Falls Road, which is located near the town of Ashton, Idaho. The road is unpaved and may be rough in certain sections, especially after rain. Visitors should check road conditions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, which provides easy access to the viewing area.
Elevation
6,283 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.144647° N, -110.997162° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring bug spray during the summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Check road conditions before visiting, especially after rain or during early spring when the road may be muddy.
This trail sits at 6,283 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.
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
Mesa Falls, Bechler Falls, and other attractions in the southwestern region of Yellowstone National Park.
Wildlife
The area around Cave Falls is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds. Visitors should remain cautious and avoid approaching any animals.
Cities near Cave Falls
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