Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Tendoy Falls
Tendoy Falls is a tucked-away cascade within Yellowstone National Park, managed by the National Park Service. This lesser-known drop offers a peaceful, wooded setting where mossy banks and rocky outcrops frame the stream—an inviting escape for hikers who prefer quieter corners of the park. Reaching the falls rewards a short but satisfying walk: the route is an out-and-back that climbs about 350 feet over roughly 2.4 miles and is rated moderate in difficulty. As part of Yellowstone National Park, the area is overseen by the NPS, so plan your visit according to park guidelines and seasonal access; the hike makes for a pleasant half-day outing for visitors with moderate fitness looking to experience a quieter waterfall in the park.
The Setting
Tendoy Falls sits at 7,444 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Firehole River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail type: Out-and-back. Length: 2.4 miles. Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. The route is a relatively short hike with steady elevation change—suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate uphill sections and typical park trail conditions. (Trail surface, grade class, and a USFS trail number are not provided for this park-managed route.)
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic experience at Tendoy Falls. The area is likely to be quiet and less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls. The surrounding landscape may include forested areas and rocky outcrops.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tendoy Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tendoy Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Tendoy Falls is typically in the spring or early summer when water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall can also be a beautiful time to visit, with colorful foliage in the surrounding area.
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
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Carrying a first aid kit is recommended.
Current Water Conditions
54 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
2.57 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 about average 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Firehole River at Old Faithful, YNP (20 km away).
Today
Low
61 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
63 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
61 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
55 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
50 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
54 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
48 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny then slight chance showers and thunderstorms (trip score 3/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to mid July, peaking in June.
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 West Yellowstone hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Tendoy Falls is located in a remote area of Wyoming. Access may require driving on unpaved roads, and visitors should ensure their vehicle is suitable for such conditions. Specific directions to the falls are not well-documented, so consulting local resources or maps is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near Tendoy Falls is unclear. Visitors may need to park along the roadside or at a nearby trailhead, depending on the access point.
Elevation
7,444 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.284653° N, -110.878547° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check local weather conditions before visiting, as the area may become difficult to access during heavy rain or snow. Bring a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited.
This trail sits at 7,444 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 30% 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.
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
Cabin Village
Sawtelle Mountain Resort
Blue Buffalo Resort
Pendleton Pointe
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
Old Faithful Inn
12.3 miles away · 0 sites
The Old Faithful Inn, built in 1903 and a member of Historic Hotels of America® since 2012 was designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels across America. Old Faithful Inn, a rustic-style lodge with a log and wood shingle exterior, is adjacent to the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser. The origina
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Nearby Attractions
The surrounding area may include other natural attractions such as hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife
The area around Tendoy Falls may be home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of wildlife.
Cities near Tendoy Falls
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