Columbine Cascade
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Columbine Cascade
Columbine Cascade is a peaceful, easy-to-enjoy waterfall tucked inside Grand Teton National Park and managed by the National Park Service. The cascade offers a classic Tetons experience—framed by alpine forest and high-country ridgelines—and is a great option for hikers looking for a short nature break. Like many of the park’s cascades, its flow is seasonal and typically fattens with late-spring snowmelt from the surrounding high peaks, so visit in spring for the most impressive run.
Trail Description
The approach to Columbine Cascade is a short, easy out-and-back hike of approximately 1.0 mile with about 200 feet of elevation gain. Rated easy, the route is suitable for most visitors and makes a good half-day or afternoon outing from nearby trailheads in Grand Teton National Park. The trail is managed by the National Park Service; note that cascade flows are seasonal and are often highest in late spring and early summer. Colter Bay Campground is the closest developed campsite, roughly 8.8 km away, for those planning an overnight stay.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful setting with the sound of cascading water and beautiful natural surroundings. The waterfall is not particularly tall but is charming and photogenic, especially during the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak.
Accessibility
The trail may not be wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain.
Seasonal Closures
The Beartooth Highway is typically closed from late fall to late spring due to snow.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Always stay on marked trails and carry bear spray as the area is within bear country.
Location & Access
Getting There
Columbine Cascade is accessible via the Beartooth Highway (US 212), a scenic route that connects Wyoming and Montana. The waterfall is located near the Clay Butte Lookout area. Visitors may need to hike a short distance from the highway to reach the cascade.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available along the Beartooth Highway at designated pullouts or trailheads near the Clay Butte Lookout area.
Elevation
8438 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.916602° N, -110.749380° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Bring insect repellent during the summer months. Check road conditions for the Beartooth Highway before visiting, as it may be closed during winter or early spring.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.0 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
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
Colter Bay Campground
5.5 miles away · 360 sites
Overview The vast Colter Bay Campground at Colter Bay Village is set amidst towering lodgepole pines just a short, picturesque stroll away from Jackson Lake. The campground offers camping for tents and dry camping for RVs. (For full hookup RV sites, check out the Colter Bay RV Park.) Campsites include 338 individual campsites, 12 large group sites, 10 hiker-bicycler sites, and 13 electric-only ADA-accessible sites. Generator Loops are H, J, K M, & O. The campground is open from mid-May to late-Se
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Alta, Wyoming
Jackson Lake Hot Springs
Jackson Lake Hot Springs emerges at 162 degrees Fahrenheit along Jackson Lake's northwestern shore in Grand Teton National Park...
Abercrombie Warm Springs
Abercrombie Warm Springs flows at 81°F within Grand Teton National Park, requiring a 104-meter walk from Warm Springs Road. The...
Kelly Warm Spring
Kelly Warm Spring flows at 81 degrees Fahrenheit just 108 meters from Gros Ventre Road at 6,684 feet elevation in Grand Teton N...
North Buffalo Fork Springs
North Buffalo Fork Springs flows at 113 degrees Fahrenheit—76 degrees above the frigid 36-degree ambient—at 7,420 feet elevatio...
Boyles Hill Springs
Boyles Hill Springs emerges at 86°F near Wilson in Teton County's valley floor, flowing 45.8 degrees above ambient temperature ...
Boundary Creek Hot Springs
Boundary Creek Hot Springs flows at 181°F in one of Yellowstone's most remote backcountry locations, requiring a 3.8-mile hike ...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Alta, Wyoming on SoakingSprings.
Explore Wyoming springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Columbine Cascade?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Columbine Cascade?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when the Beartooth Highway is open and the water flow is strongest.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Beartooth Highway, Clay Butte Lookout, and other scenic spots in the Shoshone National Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to wildlife such as deer, elk, and various bird species. Visitors should be cautious of bears and carry bear spray.
