Are there fees or permits required for Glacier Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Glacier Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Glacier Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Glacier Falls.

Live Conditions · 3,140 ft³/s · About average

Glacier Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Glacier Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Glacier Falls.

Wyoming • Grand Teton National Park

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Grand Teton National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

afagen CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

tbone_sandwich CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

@CarShowShooter CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Tim Lumley CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

@CarShowShooter CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

4.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

800 ft

About Glacier Falls

Glacier Falls is a scenic waterfall tucked into Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park and managed by the National Park Service. The falls make a rewarding destination for hikers who want a taste of the park’s rugged beauty without committing to a multi-day trek — the setting feels wild and park-managed, with the protections and visitor expectations that come with an NPS unit. The most common approach to Glacier Falls is an out-and-back route of about 4.0 miles with roughly 800 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. That manageable length and gain make it a popular day-hike option for visitors to Grand Teton National Park looking to experience a striking cascade within the park’s boundaries.

The Setting

Glacier Falls sits at 7,667 feet within Grand Teton National Park, fed by the Snake River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Hidden Falls (100 ft) lies 2.6 miles to the north.

Hidden Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 4.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 800 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail statistics: 4.0 miles (out-and-back), approximately 800 feet elevation gain, difficulty: moderate. The route is listed as an out-and-back hike within Grand Teton National Park and is managed by the National Park Service. Official park trail information does not specify a detailed surface type, percent grade, or technical class for this route, so hikers should be prepared for typical park-trail conditions and a steady climb. The trail’s moderate rating indicates sustained uphill sections but no specialized technical gear is generally required for fit day hikers.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views of the waterfall and surrounding wilderness. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the area is known for its tranquility and natural beauty.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Glacier Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Glacier Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit Glacier Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is typically clear of snow and the waterfall flow is at its peak.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Grand Teton National Park for current conditions.

Safety Information

Water temperature is currently 48°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and changing weather conditions. Carry bear spray and be aware of wildlife in the area. Always let someone know your hiking plans.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Roaring

3,140 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1.6k 2.1k 5.1k 6.2k

Based on 30 years of record

10.34 ft

Water depth at gauge

48°F

Very cold

Expect numbness within minutes

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 48 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 8.4 and mineral content is typical.

Water Quality

9.7 mg/L

Dissolved Oxygen

Excellent

Supports aquatic life

8.4

Normal

Within healthy range (6.5-8.5)

168 µS/cm

Conductance

Dissolved minerals in the water

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

SNAKE RIVER AT MOOSE, WY

USGS 13013650

5.6 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 1,674 sq mi

Altitude: 6,450 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Glacier Falls can be accessed via a trailhead in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The exact trailhead and directions may vary depending on the route chosen, so consulting a detailed map or guide is recommended.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is typically available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Elevation

7667 feet above sea level

Coordinates

43.729108° N, -110.759298° W

Land Management

Grand Teton National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Start early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains.

This trail sits at 7,667 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV 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 4.0 miles and 800 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

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

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

TETON CANYON

8.2 miles away · 27 sites

Reservable

Overview Teton Canyon Campground is located in beautiful Teton Canyon at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet. Driggs, Idaho is just 11 miles away. Hiking, backpacking and horseback riding are popular activities in this scenic region.Recreation The towering Teton Range and Jedediah Smith Wilderness are adjacent to the canyon. Excellent hiking, backpacking and horseback riding opportunities abound, with trails leaving from the campground. A horse staging area is located at the trailhead parkin

Book on Recreation.gov