LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Melody Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Melody Falls
Melody Falls is a quietly beautiful waterfall tucked into a forested pocket of public land in Wyoming. The cascade and its tranquil pool sit on BLM-managed ground, overseen by the Bureau of Land Management’s Cody Field Office, so visitors should treat the area as dispersed public recreation. Specifics such as the falls’ exact height aren’t well-documented, which helps preserve the site’s off-the-beaten-path feel and makes discovering it a rewarding small adventure. The hike to Melody Falls is an approachable day outing: the popular route is a 3.0-mile out-and-back with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The trail winds through shaded woods with occasional open viewpoints and is generally well-marked, though you’ll encounter some rocky or uneven sections. Cottonwood Creek Trailhead/Campground sits about 1.74 km away, making overnight options convenient for those who want to turn the visit into a multi-day trip.
The Setting
Melody Falls sits at 5,774 feet within Cody Field Office, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Bucking Mule Falls, the tallest waterfall in Wyoming at 600 feet, lies 6.5 miles to the east. Also nearby: Porcupine Falls (70 ft, 6.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail length: 3.0 miles round-trip (out-and-back); elevation gain: ~500 feet; difficulty: moderate. The path is mostly a forested singletrack that is well-marked and offers occasional open views of the surrounding landscape. Expect some rocky or uneven footing in places and a steady but moderate grade over the climb; good footwear is recommended. The route lies on public BLM land managed by the Cody Field Office, and Cottonwood Creek Trailhead/Campground is approximately 1.74 km away for nearby camping.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil hike through nature, culminating in a view of Melody Falls cascading over a rocky ledge. The area around the waterfall is lush and green, particularly in spring and early summer. Wildlife sightings are possible, so hikers should remain alert.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Melody Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Melody Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Melody Falls is during late spring or early summer when the water flow is at its peak, and the surrounding vegetation is vibrant. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather for hiking.
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
Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry sufficient supplies. The trail may become slippery after rain, and wildlife encounters are possible. Always stay on marked trails and inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Bighorn River, 9.8 miles away, not on Melody Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
754 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
1.93 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BIGHORN RIVER AT KANE, WY (16 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
754 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
749 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
735 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
799 cfs
3/10Wed
Barely Flowing
779 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
745 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
745 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, 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 Lovell 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 438 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,761 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 411 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 213 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,761 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 438 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Melody Falls is located in a remote area of Wyoming. Access typically involves driving to a nearby trailhead, followed by a hike through forested terrain. Exact directions may vary depending on the starting point, so consulting a reliable map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
5,774 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.866214° N, -108.050044° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a camera to capture the scenic views. Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail may become slippery after rain.
This trail sits at 5,774 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 23% 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 3.0 miles and 500 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Cattlemen Motel
Horseshoe Bend Motel
Western Motel
My Studio
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
Cottonwood Creek Trailhead/Campground
1.1 miles away · 0 sites
The Cottonwood Creek Trailhead/Campground features an interpretive kiosk, five campsites with fire rings, picnic tables toilet facility, four horse corrals, a horse watering trough and food storage boxes.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and local wildlife areas. Visitors should research the surrounding region for additional activities.
Wildlife
The area around Melody Falls is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Hikers should be cautious and avoid feeding or approaching animals.
Cities near Melody Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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