Cottonwood Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cottonwood Falls
Cottonwood Falls is a tucked-away waterfall in Wyoming that rewards a short hike with a peaceful cascade set among shady, forested surroundings. The approach is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderate outing that offers steady but manageable uphill stretches rather than technical climbing. Its quieter, less-trafficked character makes it a great choice for hikers seeking a mellow nature escape. The trail tracks a creek through wooded terrain, so you’ll enjoy dappled light and the sound of running water on the way to the falls. The route is generally well-marked and accessible to most hikers prepared for a moderate effort; the nearest developed campground, Friend Park Campground, lies about 20.8 km away, so plan logistics accordingly if you’re hoping to camp nearby.
The Setting
Cottonwood Falls sits at 5,499 feet along the North Platte River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail of approximately 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. The route follows a forested creek and is generally well-marked, with some steady uphill sections but no technical scrambling indicated. Specific USFS trail surface, grade, or official trail number/details were not provided in the available data.
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 Cottonwood Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cottonwood Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Cottonwood Falls is late spring through early fall when the trail is most accessible, 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.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before visiting, as sudden storms can occur. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 23.9 miles away
515 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 72 years of record
3.40 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 NORTH PLATTE RIVER AT ORIN, WY (38 km away).
Today
Low
587 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
530 cfs
6/10Sun
Barely Flowing
464 cfs
5/10Mon
Low
511 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
511 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
456 cfs
6/10Thu
Barely Flowing
430 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid June to late July, peaking in May.
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 El Rancho 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 99 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 5,489 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 148 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 115 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,489 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 99 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cottonwood Falls is located near the town of Centennial, Wyoming, within the Medicine Bow National Forest. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the trailhead. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
Elevation
5,499 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.312529° N, -105.244074° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or uneven in places. Check road and trail conditions before visiting, especially during spring when snowmelt can make access challenging. Bring bug spray during summer months.
This trail sits at 5,499 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 22% 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
Heartland Inn and Suites
Super 8 by Wyndham Wheatland Wyoming
Hudson House Bed and Breakfast
Best Western Torchlite
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 Campground
Friend Park Campground
12.9 miles away · 11 sites
Overview Situated at the base of Laramie Peak, the Friend Park Campground has 11 sites surrounded by firs, pines, and aspens with beautiful Friend Park to the southwest. A favorite of both tent and trailer campers, it is another great location for recreating within the Laramie Peak Unit of the Douglas Ranger District. The campground is popular for OHV riding, fishing, hiking, hunting, mountain biking, or just getting away to relax. Recreation The Laramie Peak area in the Medicine Bow National Fo
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Cottonwood Falls, Wyoming
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Cottonwood Falls, Wyoming on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Medicine Bow Peak, Snowy Range Scenic Byway, and the town of Centennial.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter deer, elk, and a variety of bird species. Be cautious of bears and other wildlife in the area.
Other waterfalls named Cottonwood Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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