Fairy Falls
Wyoming • 200 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
150 ft
About Fairy Falls
Fairy Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in the park, cascading approximately 200 feet into a serene pool below. The falls are accessible via a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding geothermal features and landscapes.
The Setting
Fairy Falls sits at 7,657 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Firehole River, in the high mountains of Wyoming. At 200 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Wyoming.
Height: 200 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Kepler Cascades (150 ft) lies 6.3 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Firehole Falls (40 ft, 7.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 5.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 150 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Fairy Falls Trail is a well-maintained path that begins near the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook. The trail is mostly flat with a gradual incline as you approach the falls. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the Grand Prismatic Spring and other geothermal features. The final stretch leads to a viewing area at the base of the falls.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 200 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Fairy Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fairy Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Fairy Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is free of snow and the weather is mild. Summer offers the most accessible conditions, but it is also the busiest season.
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
Be cautious of wildlife and stay on designated trails to avoid geothermal hazards. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain or cold temperatures even in summer.
Current Water Conditions
52 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
2.56 ft
Water depth at gauge
60°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 60 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Firehole River at Old Faithful, YNP (8 km away).
Today
Low
60 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
61 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
56 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
48 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
54 cfs
3/10Tue
Barely Flowing
42 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
5/10Best window: Tue — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late 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 West Yellowstone hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Fairy Falls is located in the Midway Geyser Basin area of Yellowstone National Park. The trailhead is accessible from the parking area near the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Fairy Falls Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
7,657 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.524377° N, -110.871045° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as conditions in Yellowstone can be unpredictable.
This trail sits at 7,657 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 31% 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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 5.0 miles and 150 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.
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.
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
Yellowstone Lodge
Gray Wolf Inn & Suites
Clubhouse Inn
Yellowstone Park Hotel
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
Old Faithful Inn
4.9 miles away · 0 sites
The Old Faithful Inn, built in 1903 and a member of Historic Hotels of America® since 2012 was designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels across America. Old Faithful Inn, a rustic-style lodge with a log and wood shingle exterior, is adjacent to the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser. The origina
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Nearby Attractions
Grand Prismatic Spring, Midway Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, Biscuit Basin
Wildlife
Bison, elk, bears, and various bird species may be spotted in the area. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Cities near Fairy Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Fairy Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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