Are there fees or permits required for North Fork Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit North Fork Falls.

Is swimming allowed at North Fork Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at North Fork Falls.

North Fork Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at North Fork Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at North Fork Falls.

Wyoming

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Teton National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

U.S. Geological Survey Public Domain · USGS

Ken Lund CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About North Fork Falls

North Fork Falls sits tucked into the high country of Wyoming’s Teton National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Nestled in a remote stretch of the North Fork of the Snake River and within reach of the small communities of Kelly, Dubois, and Alta, the falls are at their most dramatic during spring and early summer snowmelt. Expect a peaceful, forested setting with the steady roar of cascading water and plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing in a quieter corner of the forest. Access to the falls is most commonly made via the USFS North Buffalo Fork Trail (Trail #6047). The approach rewards hikers with a short, moderately strenuous outing and an uncrowded feel — a perfect half-day escape for those comfortable with rougher mountain trails. Note that the nearest developed camping is at the Blackrock Ranger District, about 25.5 km away, so come prepared for a remote experience and carry water and emergency supplies.

The Setting

North Fork Falls sits at 8,219 feet within Teton National Forest, in the high alpine of Wyoming.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate hike follows North Buffalo Fork Trail (#6047), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).

USFS Trail

NORTH BUFFALO FORK TRAIL #6047

Trail Class

Developed

Surface

Native Material

USFS Segment

9.62 mi

Trail Description

The most direct route to North Fork Falls uses the USFS North Buffalo Fork Trail, Trail #6047. USFS records show the trail system at roughly 9.62 GIS miles, while typical hiking access to the falls is described as a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain (moderate difficulty). The trail surface is native material and the route is rated Class 3, so expect uneven, rocky tread and some scrambling or steeper sections; route-finding can be required in places and conditions vary by season.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful and remote setting with a beautiful waterfall surrounded by Wyoming's rugged wilderness. The area may feature dense forests, rocky terrain, and wildlife sightings.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at North Fork Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at North Fork Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit North Fork Falls is during late spring through early summer when snowmelt enhances the waterfall's flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for exploration.

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 Teton National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Wildlife encounters, including bears, are possible, so carry bear spray and make noise while hiking. Weather can change rapidly in this region, so be prepared for sudden storms or temperature drops.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

North Fork Falls is located approximately 38.9 miles from Kelly, 41.7 miles from Dubois, and 48.6 miles from Alta, Wyoming. The coordinates for the waterfall are 43.9802, -110.1199. Access may require driving on unpaved roads and potentially hiking to reach the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated trailheads if a trail is required to access the falls.

Elevation

8219 feet above sea level

Coordinates

43.980226° N, -110.119909° W

Land Management

Teton National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a detailed map or GPS device, as the area may lack clear signage. Wear sturdy hiking boots and prepare for changing weather conditions. Check local reports for road and trail conditions before visiting.

This trail sits at 8,219 ft — the air is noticeably thinner

High Altitude

Some visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.

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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.

Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)

Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.

Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex

Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 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.

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

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Nearby Campground

Blackrock Ranger District

15.8 miles away · 0 sites

The Blackrock Ranger District is comprised mostly of the Teton Wilderness. It borders Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. It is home to the headwaters of the Yellowstone River and the Continental Divide.NEW: Teton Division Over Snow Vehicle Use Map October 2016Office hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday through FridayBlackrock Ranger DistrictHwy 26/287P.O. Box 278Moran, WY 83013307-543-2386Fax: 307-543-9149

Book on Recreation.gov