Slide Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Slide Falls
Slide Falls is a tucked-away cascade set within Bridger National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are reached via the USFS Slide Lake Trail (Trail #7147), a peaceful route that rewards visitors with a quiet, natural setting away from busier corridors. Its lesser-known status makes Slide Falls a great choice for hikers seeking solitude and photo-worthy scenery. The approach is a moderate out-and-back hike of roughly 2.0 miles (USFS GIS records list ~2.33 miles) with about 300 feet of elevation gain on the Slide Lake Trail. If you want to extend your visit, Green River Lake Lodge campground sits about 4.6 km away and provides nearby overnight options. The trail and waterfall are on National Forest land and maintained by the USFS, so standard backcountry etiquette and Leave No Trace practices apply.
The Setting
Slide Falls sits at 9,101 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 Slide Lake (#7147), a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 300 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
SLIDE LAKE #7147
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
2.33 miTrail Description
Access: USFS Slide Lake Trail (Trail #7147), Bridger National Forest. Surface: native material. Class: 3. Length: ~2.0 miles (USFS GIS ~2.33 miles). Elevation gain: ~300 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Route type: out-and-back. The trail follows a natural, native-material tread (roots, rocks, and packed soil are common) and is rated Class 3 on USFS records, so expect sections that require steady footing and occasional scrambling over uneven ground. Sturdy footwear and basic route-awareness are recommended for a comfortable visit.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through natural surroundings, culminating in a view of Slide Falls. The waterfall may vary in flow depending on the season, with higher flows in spring and early summer due to snowmelt.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Slide Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Slide Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Slide Falls is during late spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
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 prepared for changing weather conditions and carry appropriate gear. The trail may be slippery near the waterfall, so caution is advised. Always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Current Water Conditions
65 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
3.02 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
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
Slide Falls is located in a remote area of Wyoming. Access typically requires driving on unpaved roads, and directions may vary depending on the starting point. Visitors are advised to use a reliable map or GPS device.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of small pull-off areas near the trailhead. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
9101 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.283281° N, -109.817381° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
This trail sits at 9,101 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 2.0 miles and 300 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
2.9 miles away · 1 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and natural landmarks in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area around Slide Falls is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with larger animals such as bears.
Cities near Slide Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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