Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Mystic Falls
Mystic Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It is part of the Little Firehole River and is known for its scenic beauty and accessibility via a moderate hiking trail. The waterfall cascades over multiple tiers, creating a stunning natural feature surrounded by lush forest.
The Setting
Mystic Falls sits at 7,480 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Firehole River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Fairy Falls (200 ft) lies 2.8 miles to the north. Also nearby: Kepler Cascades (150 ft, 4.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile loop trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Mystic Falls begins at Biscuit Basin and follows a well-maintained path through a forested area. The trail includes some moderate elevation gain and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Hikers can choose to take the loop trail for a slightly longer route with additional scenic overlooks.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views of Mystic Falls. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Wildlife sightings, such as birds and small mammals, are common along the trail.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mystic Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mystic Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Mystic Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is clear of snow and the weather is mild. Summer offers the most accessible conditions, but it can be crowded.
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
Be cautious of wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Carry bear spray and know how to use it, as bears are present in the area. The trail can be slippery after rain or snow, so proper footwear is essential.
Current Water Conditions
54 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
2.57 ft
Water depth at gauge
60°F
WarmVery comfortable
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 60 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Firehole River at Old Faithful, YNP (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
54 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
59 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
61 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
55 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
48 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
53 cfs
3/10Tue
Barely Flowing
42 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly 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 West Yellowstone hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Mystic Falls is located in Yellowstone National Park, near the Biscuit Basin area. Visitors can access the trailhead from the Biscuit Basin parking lot, which is approximately 3 miles north of Old Faithful along the Grand Loop Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Biscuit Basin parking lot. It can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
7,480 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.484099° N, -110.873823° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven in some sections. Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may be slippery after rain.
This trail sits at 7,480 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 30% 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 2.4 miles and 300 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
Yellowstone Lodge
Gray Wolf Inn & Suites
Clubhouse Inn
Yellowstone Park Hotel
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
Old Faithful Inn
2.7 miles away · 0 sites
The Old Faithful Inn, built in 1903 and a member of Historic Hotels of America® since 2012 was designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels across America. Old Faithful Inn, a rustic-style lodge with a log and wood shingle exterior, is adjacent to the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser. The origina
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near West Yellowstone, Wyoming on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Biscuit Basin, Old Faithful, and the Upper Geyser Basin.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area may include bison, elk, deer, and various bird species. Visitors should maintain a safe distance from all wildlife.
Cities near Mystic Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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