Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Garden Creek Waterfall
Tucked into Rotary Park just outside Casper, Garden Creek Waterfall is a compact but photogenic cascade framed by lush riparian vegetation and rocky outcrops. The falls are a favorite quick escape for locals and visitors alike — an inviting slice of nature where the sound of rushing water and a pocket of shade make for peaceful photography and short contemplative stops. You can reach the waterfall via a short 0.5-mile out-and-back route that climbs roughly 100 feet, making it an easy jaunt suitable for families and casual hikers. The trail threads through mixed parkland and leads directly to the base of the falls, offering close-up views and comfortable places to linger before returning to the park.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This is a short, well-maintained 0.5-mile out-and-back trail with about 100 feet of elevation gain and an easy grade, suitable for most visitors including families with children. The surface is a maintained park path with a gentle incline that winds through Rotary Park and finishes at the base of Garden Creek Waterfall; expect light footing and short, accessible approaches rather than steep or technical terrain.
What to Expect
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 Garden Creek Waterfall?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Garden Creek Waterfall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Garden Creek Waterfall is in the spring or early summer when the water flow is strongest. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the surrounding foliage turns vibrant colors.
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
Exercise caution on the trail, as rocks near the waterfall can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions, as storms can occur suddenly in the area.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Garden Creek Waterfall is located in Rotary Park, just a short drive from downtown Casper, Wyoming. From Casper, take Casper Mountain Road (WY-251) south for about 6 miles to reach Rotary Park. The waterfall is accessible via a short hike from the park's parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a parking area available at Rotary Park, which provides access to the trail leading to the waterfall.
Elevation
6437 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.765752° N, -106.333036° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends or holidays to secure parking, as Rotary Park can get busy. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring water and sunscreen, especially during warmer months.
This trail sits at 6,437 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 26% 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.
For this easy 0.5 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
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
AmericInn by Wyndham Casper Event Center Area
Quality Inn & Suites Casper near Event Center
Baymont by Wyndham Casper East
Best Western PLUS Casper Inn & Suites
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
Rim Campground
7.0 miles away · 0 sites
Nestled under the pine trees of Muddy Mountain and overlooking the valley below, Rim Campground provides 8 camping sites that include level tent pads and fire rings, with a few pull-through sites for large trailers/RVs. One double-vaulted toilet is provided for camper's comfort. Two trailheads provide access to Muddy Mountain's ADA accessible hiking trails linking campers to nearby Lodgepole Campground and to over a mile of single track trails for hikers and assistive devices only. Potable water
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Casper Mountain, Wyoming
Alcova Hot Springs
Alcova Hot Springs delivers water at 129°F—among Wyoming's hottest springs outside Yellowstone—in Natrona County near Mills. Th...
Horse Creek Springs
Horse Creek Springs emerges at 75 degrees Fahrenheit in central Wyoming's high desert, flowing 218.9 meters from the nearest ro...
Douglas Hot Springs
Douglas Hot Springs flows at 86 degrees Fahrenheit in Converse County near the town of Douglas in east-central Wyoming, where t...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Casper Mountain, Wyoming on SoakingSprings.
Explore Wyoming springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Casper Mountain trails, Beartrap Meadow, and the Casper Mountain Nordic Ski Area.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals in the area. Be cautious and avoid feeding or approaching wildlife.
Cities near Garden Creek Waterfall
Writing about Garden Creek Waterfall? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.