Porcupine Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Porcupine Creek Falls
Porcupine Creek Falls tumbles through the Bighorn Mountains on USFS-managed land, nestled within Bridger National Forest. The falls sit in a rugged, forested drainage and are most commonly reached via the USFS NEW FORK/PORCUPINE Trail (#7137). The approach threads through mixed forest and rocky benches, offering the kind of dramatic mountain scenery that makes a short outing feel remote and satisfying. Practical details from the Forest Service make this an easy hike to plan: the route to the falls is an out-and-back of about 2.0 miles with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The trail is listed in USFS records as Trail #7137 (NEW FORK/PORCUPINE) with 8.29 GIS miles in the system and is managed by the USFS. If you want to camp nearby, Green River Lake Lodge is about 4.29 km away, making an overnight stay or a longer exploration of the area convenient.
The Setting
Porcupine Creek Falls sits at 8,274 feet within Bridger National Forest, fed by the New Fork River, in the high alpine of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows New Fork/Porcupine (#7137), a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
NEW FORK/PORCUPINE #7137
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
8.29 miTrail Description
The NEW FORK/PORCUPINE Trail (USFS Trail #7137) is an out-and-back of approximately 2.0 miles with about 500 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The tread is native material (natural surface) and the Forest Service classifies the route as Class 3, so expect uneven, rocky sections and short steeper pitches that require sure footing. The trail winds through dense forest and along rugged terrain with intermittent mountain views; footwear with good traction is recommended and hikers should be prepared for native-surface conditions and variable grade.
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 Porcupine Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Porcupine Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Porcupine Creek Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is most accessible, and the water flow is strong.
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 Bridger National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Carry bear spray and know how to use it, as black bears are present in the area.
Current Water Conditions
43 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
2.86 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Porcupine Creek Falls is located in the Bighorn National Forest. The falls can be accessed via Forest Service roads, but the exact route may vary depending on seasonal conditions. Visitors are advised to check with the local ranger station for the most up-to-date information on road access.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at trailheads within the Bighorn National Forest. Specific parking locations depend on the chosen trail to access the falls.
Elevation
8274 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.276336° N, -109.838492° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail can become muddy or slippery after rain. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited in the area.
This trail sits at 8,274 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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.0 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
Trails end motel
Chinook Winds Lodge
Stagecoach Inn & Suites
Crooked Creek Guest Ranch
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
Green River Lake Lodge
2.7 miles away · 1 sites
Overview The Green River Lakes Lodge is located 50 miles north of Pinedale, Wyoming. The lodge is available as a rental for day use events such as weddings, family reunions, or meetings for up to 50 guests, or as an overnight rental for smaller groups of up to 12 guests. Recreation During the summer months, hiking and horseback riding into the Bridger Wilderness and Wind River Range are popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the area. The lake is open to small watercraft only, making it an exc
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Dubois, Wyoming on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Bighorn National Forest include Shell Falls, Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, and Cloud Peak Wilderness.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, black bears, and numerous bird species. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Porcupine Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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