Clear Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Clear Creek Falls
Clear Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Wyoming, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil surroundings. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers seeking a serene outdoor experience.
The Setting
Clear Creek Falls sits at 8,035 feet within Bridger National Forest, fed by the New Fork River, in the high alpine of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Clear Creek (#7184), a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
CLEAR CREEK #7184
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.20 miTrail Description
The trail to Clear Creek Falls follows a well-maintained path through the Bighorn National Forest. Hikers will pass through lush forests and enjoy views of Clear Creek along the way. The trail has some moderate elevation gain but is manageable for most visitors with a reasonable level of fitness.
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 Clear Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Clear Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Clear Creek Falls is late spring through early fall when the trail is clear of snow and the waterfall flow is at its peak due to snowmelt.
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 Bridger National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and stay on marked trails. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for sudden rain or temperature drops.
Current Water Conditions
44 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
2.87 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
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
Clear Creek Falls is located near Buffalo, Wyoming, in the Bighorn National Forest. The falls can be accessed via US Highway 16, also known as the Cloud Peak Skyway. Follow signs for Clear Creek Trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Clear Creek Trailhead, which serves as the starting point for accessing the falls.
Elevation
8035 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.294722° N, -109.829167° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Check trail conditions before visiting, particularly in spring when snowmelt can make the trail muddy.
This trail sits at 8,035 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.
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With 4.5 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
Trails end motel
Chinook Winds Lodge
Stagecoach Inn & Suites
Crooked Creek Guest Ranch
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Bighorn National Forest include Shell Falls, Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, and Cloud Peak Wilderness.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds. Visitors should be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if hiking in the region.
Cities near Clear Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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