Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Ouzel Falls
Ouzel Falls tumbles through a quiet canyon of Wyoming’s Wind River country, offering a peaceful reward for hikers who follow the Popo Agie River to its cascade. Nestled within Teton National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the falls sit in a scenic stretch of native forest and rocky outcrops that make for excellent photography and a mellow day hike. The most common route uses the OUZEL FALLS CONNECTOR (USFS Trail #4098A), a native‑surface spur that links into the longer access route. Expect a moderate outing: the full hike is an approximately 4.5 mile out-and-back with about 500 feet of elevation gain. The setting is inviting for day hikers who want a relatively short, scenic trek managed by the USFS and framed by the Popo Agie’s canyon landscape.
The Setting
Ouzel Falls sits at 8,458 feet within Teton National Forest, in the high alpine of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Ouzel Falls Connector (#4098A), a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
OUZEL FALLS CONNECTOR #4098A
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
1.34 miTrail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Total distance: ~4.5 miles with ~500 ft elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The USFS connector segment — OUZEL FALLS CONNECTOR (Trail #4098A) — is recorded at 1.34 GIS miles, Class 2, and composed of native material. The route follows the Popo Agie through forested canyon and open rock sections; footing is primarily native dirt and stone with some rocky approaches near the falls. Class 2 terrain and the moderate elevation change make sturdy footwear recommended and the trail suitable for hikers comfortable with uneven, natural surfaces.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
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 allowed
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 clear of snow and the waterfall is flowing at its fullest.
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 and stay on marked trails to avoid accidents. Weather can change rapidly, so check forecasts before heading out.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Ouzel Falls is located near Lander, Wyoming, within the Shoshone National Forest. The trailhead is accessible via the Bruce's Parking Area, which is part of the Sinks Canyon State Park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Bruce's Parking Area, which serves as the starting point for the trail to Ouzel Falls. The lot may fill up during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
8458 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.413831° N, -110.213236° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure a parking spot. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be sunny in some sections. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in spring and fall.
This trail sits at 8,458 ft — the air is noticeably thinner
High AltitudeSome 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 4.5 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.
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
Crooked Creek Guest Ranch
Studio Cabin with Mtn Views by the Green River!
Cozy Cora Studio Cabin w/ Wind River Mtn Views
Abode at Grand Teton Vista
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
Whiskey Grove Campground
14.8 miles away · 10 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Sinks Canyon State Park, Popo Agie Falls, and the town of Lander offer additional recreational opportunities and amenities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, marmots, and birds. Visitors should be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if hiking in the region.
Cities near Ouzel Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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