Silver Cord Cascade

Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park NP · National Park Service

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Silver Cord Cascade

Silver Cord Cascade is a striking horsetail waterfall on Surface Creek, tucked along the South rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone in Yellowstone National Park. Surface Creek flows out of Ribbon Lake and plunges roughly 1,200 feet (370 m) to the Yellowstone River, making Silver Cord Cascade the tallest waterfall in the park. The narrow, ribbon-like drop and its dramatic canyon setting create one of Yellowstone’s most memorable rim views. Managed by the National Park Service, the falls were first recorded by members of the Washburn–Langford–Doane Expedition, who described it as “Silverthread Falls.” Its combination of geological drama and historical note makes Silver Cord Cascade a rewarding stop on canyon overlooks; seasonal flow and weather can greatly affect views, so check park conditions before visiting.

Trail Description

Trail: 2.4 miles (out-and-back) with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: Out-and-back. This route is inside Yellowstone National Park and managed by the National Park Service. No USFS trail number or detailed USFS surface/grade/class data is provided in the available records.

Location & Access

Elevation

7861 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.726050° N, -110.451591° W

Land Management

Yellowstone National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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.

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

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

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

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Campground

Tower Fall Campground

11.7 miles away · 33 sites

Reservable

Overview Tower Fall Campground—elevation 6,600 feet (2012 m)—is on the north side of the steep, winding, road to Dunraven Pass. The campground is near the Tower General Store and Tower Fall. The Lamar Valley, with spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, is nearby as are several Day Hikes in the Tower and Northeast Area. Roosevelt Lodge, a short drive from the campground, offers dining and horseback riding. For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Fishin

Book on Recreation.gov