Union Falls
Wyoming • 260 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Union Falls
Union Falls is a stunning two-tiered waterfall located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It is named for the way two streams converge into a single cascade, creating a unique and picturesque sight. The waterfall is considered one of the most beautiful in the park and is a popular destination for hikers seeking a more remote experience.
The Setting
Union Falls sits at 6,791 feet within Yellowstone National Park, in the high mountains of Wyoming. At 260 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Wyoming.
Height: 260 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Union Falls is a challenging but rewarding hike through the remote Bechler region of Yellowstone. Hikers will traverse dense forests, cross streams, and pass through meadows filled with wildflowers. The trail includes several creek crossings, which may require wading depending on water levels. The final approach to the waterfall offers breathtaking views of the cascading water.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 260 feet. Swimming is permitted.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Union Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Pets aren't allowed on hiking trails, boardwalks or in the backcountry in Yellowstone; they must stay within 100 feet of roads, parking areas and campgrounds.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A backcountry permit is required for overnight stays in the area. Day hikes do not require a permit.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Union Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Union Falls is during the summer and early fall, typically from July to September, when the trail is accessible, and water levels are lower for creek crossings.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is 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 47°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Hikers should be prepared for creek crossings, changing weather, and potential wildlife encounters. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Check trail conditions before starting your hike, as water levels can make crossings dangerous.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Snake River, 12 miles away, not on Union Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
308 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 43 years of record
2.51 ft
Water depth at gauge
47°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 47 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 SNAKE RIVER AB JACKSON LAKE AT FLAGG RANCH WY (19 km away).
Today
Moderate
308 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
313 cfs
9/10Thu
Strong
339 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
334 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
318 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
317 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
322 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid 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 Alta hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Union Falls Frozen?
Updated about 12 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
Union Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 40°F to 32°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 316 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Wyoming.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 219 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The listed height of 260 feet matches what the lidar sees. The ground at the falls is roughly 6,798 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 53 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 86 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 6,798 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 219 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Union Falls is located in the Bechler region of Yellowstone National Park, which is less visited compared to other areas of the park. The trailhead is typically accessed via the Grassy Lake Road, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on road conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak season. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
6,791 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.192708° N, -110.870770° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to allow plenty of time for the hike and to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the summer. Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and bring trekking poles for the creek crossings. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry bear spray, as this is bear country.
This trail sits at 6,791 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 27% 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.
Where to Stay
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch
Pendleton Pointe
Blue Buffalo Resort
Grandma's Home in the Woods. Yellowstone
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
8.4 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.
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Nearby Attractions
Ouzel Pool, Bechler Falls, and the Bechler Meadows area are nearby attractions worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, moose, and birds. Visitors should remain vigilant and follow park guidelines for wildlife safety.
Cities near Union Falls
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