Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Twilight Falls
Twilight Falls tumbles through a quiet canyon in Wyoming’s Shoshone National Forest, offering a peaceful reward after a short, steady climb. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the falls sit along Twilight Creek and are reached via the signed TWILIGHT CREEK TRAIL (USFS Trail #821). The setting is classic Rocky Mountain backcountry — spruce and aspen fringes, rocky outcrops, and the steady sound of falling water — making it an ideal half-day escape for hikers looking for scenery without a long commitment. The hike is rated moderate and gains about 350 feet in elevation over a relatively short distance, so expect a bit of steady uphill but not technical scrambling. Because the route is on National Forest land, trail etiquette and Leave No Trace principles apply; the trail is maintained by the USFS and marked on local maps as the official approach to the falls. Pack water, a layered jacket for changing weather, and a camera: the cascade and surrounding forest make for great photos in morning or late-afternoon light.
The Setting
Twilight Falls sits at 8,953 feet within Shoshone National Forest, fed by the Wind River, in the high alpine of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Twilight Creek Trail (#821), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
TWILIGHT CREEK TRAIL #821
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
7.99 miTrail Description
TWILIGHT CREEK TRAIL (Trail #821) is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles (USFS-listed) with about 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. According to USFS trail data, the tread is native material, the route is class 2 (non-technical hiking with possible use of hands for balance), and typical grade ranges from 12–20%. The Forest Service’s GIS records also include this trail in its dataset (7.99 GIS miles entry). Expect a singletrack dirt surface, occasional root and rock exposure, and standard National Forest signage and trail maintenance levels.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be remote and less developed, offering a peaceful experience away from crowds.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Twilight Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Twilight Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have a stronger flow due to snowmelt and rainfall.
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 Shoshone National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The area may be remote, with limited cell service. Visitors should inform someone of their plans, carry a first aid kit, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Wildlife encounters are possible, so proper precautions should be taken.
Current Water Conditions
320 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 72 years of record
3.24 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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
The exact location and directions to Twilight Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or experienced guides for accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near Twilight Falls is unclear. Visitors may need to park at a nearby trailhead or designated area and hike to the waterfall.
Elevation
8953 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.781979° N, -109.664317° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device, as the location may be difficult to find. Wear sturdy footwear and prepare for varying trail conditions. Check weather conditions before visiting.
This trail sits at 8,953 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 2.4 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.
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
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
Pinnacles Campground
16.7 miles away · 0 sites
This campground hosts 21 campsites with dramatic views near Brooks Lake. Angling and flyfishing opportunities are nearby, with a boat ramp at Brooks Lake. Fantastic geologic formations at Pinnacle Butte can be seen on the drive in to the campground. Maximum spur 32 feet.Picnic tables, fire rings, bear boxes, and garbage collection are available.This site is not accessible to those with mobility impairments.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural landmarks or trails in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area may be home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and potentially bears. Visitors should practice proper wildlife safety.
Cities near Twilight Falls
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