Moose Falls
Wyoming • 30 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Moose Falls
Moose Falls is a picturesque 30-foot waterfall located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It is part of Crawfish Creek and is easily accessible, making it a popular stop for visitors traveling through the southern entrance of the park.
The Setting
Moose Falls sits at 6,975 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Snake River, in the high mountains of Wyoming. The falls drop 30 feet.
Height: 30 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Union Falls (260 ft) lies 10.2 miles to the west. Also nearby: Lewis Falls (30 ft, 8.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Moose Falls is very short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It leads directly from the parking area to the base of the waterfall, where you can enjoy close-up views and take photos.
What to Expect
The falls drop 30 feet.
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 Moose Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Moose Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Moose Falls is in late spring or early summer when the water flow is strongest. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, while winter access may be limited due to snow.
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
Water temperature is currently 43°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
The area around the waterfall can be slippery, especially after rain. Stay on designated trails and avoid getting too close to the edge. Be aware of wildlife and follow park safety guidelines.
Current Water Conditions
2,030 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 42 years of record
4.68 ft
Water depth at gauge
43°F
Very coldExpect 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 43 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Moose Falls is located just inside the southern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, along the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway. It is a short walk from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, located off the main road. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
6975 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.151829° N, -110.672692° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery near the waterfall. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
This trail sits at 6,975 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 0.6 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.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
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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Nearby Campground
Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch
3.1 miles away · 171 sites
Overview Availability will go live on Recreation.gov on a 6-month rolling basis for RV sites, Tent sites, and Camper Cabins. Located in the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, directly between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks and just minutes from both, Headwaters Campground offers the perfect basecamp for exploration. Situated in a spectacular wooded setting with rolling hills and Teton mountain views, this campground is the perfect place to unwind and unplug, as there is limi
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Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Lewis Falls, Yellowstone Lake, and the West Thumb Geyser Basin.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as elk, bison, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from animals.
Cities near Moose Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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