Ouzel Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Ouzel Falls
Ouzel Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Wyoming, near the border of Yellowstone National Park. It is known for its serene setting and cascading waters, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Ouzel Falls sits at 6,654 feet within Yellowstone National Park, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Dunanda Falls (150 ft) lies 2.6 miles to the west. Also nearby: Colonnade Falls (100 ft, 1.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Ouzel Falls is a short and relatively easy hike, suitable for most visitors. It winds through a forested area with occasional views of nearby streams and wildlife. The path is well-maintained and clearly marked.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil hike through a wooded area leading to a beautiful waterfall. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, and the sound of cascading water creates a peaceful atmosphere. The area may be busy during peak seasons, so plan accordingly.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ouzel Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Pets aren't allowed on hiking trails, boardwalks or in the backcountry in Yellowstone; they must stay within 100 feet of roads, parking areas and campgrounds.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ouzel Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Ouzel Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is most accessible and the waterfall flow is at its peak. Winter visits may be possible but could require additional preparation for snow or ice.
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 42°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the waterfall, as rocks may be slippery. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and carry bear spray if hiking in bear country.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Firehole River, 17.3 miles away, not on Ouzel Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
38 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
2.43 ft
Water depth at gauge
42°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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. Water temperature is very cold at 42 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Firehole River at Old Faithful, YNP (28 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
39 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
39 cfs
5/10Sat
Low
42 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
44 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
43 cfs
4/10Best 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 Alta hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Ouzel Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Ouzel Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 49°F to 34°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 40 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Wyoming.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Ouzel Falls is located approximately 24.9 miles from Alta, 26.4 miles from West Yellowstone, and 27.0 miles from Drummond. The coordinates for the falls are 44.2349, -110.9758. Access is typically via a trailhead near Yellowstone National Park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
6,654 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.234927° N, -110.975772° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in some areas. Bring water and snacks, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail may be slippery after rain.
This trail sits at 6,654 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 27% 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.
This easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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
Blue Buffalo Resort
Pendleton Pointe
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch
Grandma's Home in the Woods. Yellowstone
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
Cave Falls Campground
7.6 miles away · 0 sites
This campgrond is situated on the banks of Fall River in Wyoming along the south border of Yellowstone National Park. Cave Falls Campground has 23 single site units and a terrific area for fishing. Each campsite has fire rings, grills and picnic tables. Located throughout the campground are vault toilets, water faucets, bear proof storage boxes, and a dumpster. The campground is located in grizzly bear habitat that requires special precautions be taken with food storage.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the town of West Yellowstone.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally bears. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Ouzel Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Ouzel Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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