Gibbon Falls
Wyoming • 84 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Gibbon Falls
Gibbon Falls is a picturesque waterfall located along the Gibbon River in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It features a cascading drop of approximately 84 feet and is easily accessible from the Grand Loop Road, making it a popular stop for visitors.
The Setting
Gibbon Falls sits at 7,083 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Gibbon River, in the high mountains of Wyoming. The falls drop 84 feet.
Height: 84 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Fairy Falls (200 ft) lies 10.2 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Firehole Falls (40 ft, 4.9 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Gibbon Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
The trail to Gibbon Falls is a short, paved path leading from the parking area to a viewing platform. It is suitable for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 84 feet.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Gibbon Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Gibbon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Gibbon Falls is during spring, summer, or fall when the roads are open and the weather is pleasant. Spring offers higher water flow 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 the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Stay on designated paths and viewing platforms. Do not climb on rocks near the falls, as they can be slippery. Be aware of wildlife in the area and follow park safety guidelines.
Current Water Conditions
136 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
4.85 ft
Water depth at gauge
51°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 51 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Gibbon Falls is located along the Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park, between Madison Junction and Norris Geyser Basin. It is well-marked with signs and has a designated parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a dedicated parking area near the falls, which can accommodate cars and small RVs. Parking may be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Elevation
7083 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.654379° N, -110.770766° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Be cautious near the edge of the viewing platform.
This trail sits at 7,083 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 28% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 0.1 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.
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.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
Where to Stay
Yellowstone Lodge
Clubhouse Inn
Gray Wolf Inn & Suites
Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone
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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13.8 miles away · 0 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Norris Geyser Basin, Madison Junction, Firehole River Drive
Wildlife
Visitors may spot wildlife such as bison, elk, and various bird species in the surrounding area. Always maintain a safe distance from animals.
Cities near Gibbon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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