Silver Scarf Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Silver Scarf Falls
Silver Scarf Falls is a quiet, scenic cascade tucked into the forests of Yellowstone National Park and managed by the National Park Service. The falls earned their name for the way the water pours in thin, silvery ribbons over exposed rock, creating a peaceful nook away from the park’s busier thermal basins. As part of Yellowstone — the nation’s first national park, established in 1872 and administered by the NPS — this spot offers a more intimate encounter with the park’s wooded backcountry. Access to the falls is via a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs about 350 feet through mixed forest. The trail is a great choice for hikers who want a shorter excursion in the park; Cave Falls Campground is the nearest camping option at roughly 13.0 km (about 8.1 miles) away, so plan overnight stays accordingly. Because the waterfall lies within Yellowstone, observe park regulations, stay on designated trails, and be prepared for seasonal trail conditions.
The Setting
Silver Scarf Falls sits at 6,631 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Firehole River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Dunanda Falls (150 ft) lies 0.1 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Colonnade Falls (100 ft, 3.7 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back, length: ~2.4 miles, elevation gain: ~350 ft, difficulty: moderate. The path to Silver Scarf Falls follows a natural forest tread that can be uneven and rocky in places and narrows through dense vegetation; hikers should expect some short, steeper pitches and seasonal stream crossings. Footwear with good traction is recommended. The route is managed as part of Yellowstone National Park by the National Park Service — follow posted signs and seasonal advisories while hiking.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike leading to a beautiful waterfall surrounded by natural scenery. The falls are most impressive during spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Silver Scarf Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Silver Scarf Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest during these seasons.
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
Hikers should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and avoid getting too close to the edge. Always stay on marked trails and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 17.7 miles away
37 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
2.46 ft
Water depth at gauge
54°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 54 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
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 (29 km away).
Today
Moderate
42 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
39 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 133 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 6,644 feet.
The ground changes about 155 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 37 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 6,644 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 133 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Silver Scarf Falls is located in a remote area of Wyoming. Access typically requires driving on unpaved roads and may involve a short hike. Exact directions should be confirmed through local resources or trail guides.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of informal pull-offs near the trailhead. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
6,631 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.246314° N, -111.022162° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail may become slippery or muddy after rain. Cell service may be limited in the area.
This trail sits at 6,631 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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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.
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
8.1 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 may include other hiking trails and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding area. Check local guides for more information.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if hiking in bear country.
Cities near Silver Scarf Falls
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