Twister Falls
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Twister Falls
Twister Falls is a photogenic cascade tucked inside Yellowstone National Park, managed by the National Park Service. The falls are framed by classic park scenery—conifer stands and rugged rock—and make a rewarding destination for hikers looking to pair waterfall views with Yellowstone’s backcountry atmosphere. Visitors will experience a sense of remoteness compared with the park’s more heavily trafficked thermal basins. The hike to Twister Falls is commonly approached as an out-and-back route of about 4.0 miles with roughly 800 feet of elevation gain, and it’s generally rated moderate. While there are no nearby campgrounds within a 10 km radius, the well-known Old Faithful Inn is approximately 18.2 km (about 11.3 miles) from the falls if you’re planning an overnight stay in the area.
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back; length: ~4.0 miles; elevation gain: ~800 feet; difficulty: moderate. This route is managed by the National Park Service as part of Yellowstone National Park rather than by the USFS; no USFS trail number or formal surface/grade/class data were provided in the supplied information. Expect a moderately sustained climb over the course of the hike and typical park trail conditions—trail maintenance and routing are handled by NPS staff, so check current park alerts before you go.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene hike through nature, culminating in views of the cascading Twister Falls. The area is known for its tranquility and natural beauty.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible and may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Seasonal Closures
The trail may be inaccessible during winter months due to snow and ice.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Always stay on marked trails and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Location & Access
Getting There
Twister Falls is located within a remote area of Wyoming. Access typically requires driving to a trailhead followed by a hike. Specific directions may vary depending on the trailhead used.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
8054 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.297431° N, -110.861880° 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 after rain or snow.
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With 4.0 miles and 800 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
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
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
Old Faithful Inn
11.3 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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Explore Wyoming springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Twister Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Twister Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Twister Falls, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other hiking trails and natural landmarks in the area may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if required.