Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Terraced Falls
Terraced Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It is part of the Fall River and is known for its unique terraced appearance, with water cascading over multiple layers of rock formations.
The Setting
Terraced Falls sits at 6,896 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Snake River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Union Falls (260 ft) lies 3.2 miles to the north. Also nearby: Cave Falls (20 ft, 6.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 5.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Terraced Falls follows Cascade Creek and offers scenic views of the surrounding forest and river. The path is well-marked but includes some uneven terrain and moderate elevation gain. Hikers will encounter a mix of wooded areas and open spaces before reaching the falls.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a less crowded area of Yellowstone National Park. The falls themselves are a beautiful sight, with water cascading over multiple terraces. Wildlife sightings, including birds and small mammals, are common along the trail.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Terraced Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Terraced Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Terraced Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is free of snow and the water flow is at its peak.
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
Water temperature is currently 39°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Hikers should be aware of potential wildlife encounters, including bears. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. The trail may be slippery near the falls, so exercise caution. Check weather conditions before starting your hike, as sudden storms can occur.
Current Water Conditions
3,120 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 42 years of record
5.49 ft
Water depth at gauge
39°F
Dangerously coldRisk of cold shock
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is dangerously cold at 39 degrees F, avoid prolonged contact.
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
Terraced Falls is accessed via the Cascade Creek Trail, which begins near the Bechler Ranger Station in the southwest corner of Yellowstone National Park. The trailhead is located off the Grassy Lake Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Cascade Creek Trailhead near the Bechler Ranger Station. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
6896 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.147153° N, -110.864103° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the summer. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven in places. Be prepared for potential encounters with wildlife, including bears, and carry bear spray.
This trail sits at 6,896 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 28% 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 5.5 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.
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
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch
Teton Peaks Resort
Heart Six Ranch
Colter Bay Village
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
7.6 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.
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Alta, Wyoming
Boundary Creek Hot Springs
Boundary Creek Hot Springs flows at 181°F in one of Yellowstone's most remote backcountry locations, requiring a 3.8-mile hike ...
Jackson Lake Hot Springs
Jackson Lake Hot Springs emerges at 162 degrees Fahrenheit along Jackson Lake's northwestern shore in Grand Teton National Park...
Imperial Geyser, Spray Geyser
Imperial Geyser and Spray Geyser emerge at 192 degrees Fahrenheit at 7,327 feet elevation, located two miles from road access v...
Rabbit Creek Group
Rabbit Creek Group emerges at 198 degrees Fahrenheit—161 degrees above the 36-degree ambient—at 7,284 feet elevation in Yellows...
Fairy Springs
Fairy Springs flows at 201 degrees Fahrenheit within Yellowstone National Park's Lower Geyser Basin, distinguished by its extre...
Excelsior Geyser Crater
Excelsior Geyser Crater discharges approximately 4,000 gallons per minute at 199 degrees Fahrenheit into the Firehole River, ma...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Alta, Wyoming on SoakingSprings.
Explore Wyoming springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Bechler Falls, Cave Falls, and the Bechler Meadows area, which is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, deer, and numerous bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from animals and follow park guidelines.
Cities near Terraced Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Terraced Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.