Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Wagon Hound Falls
Wagon Hound Falls is a tucked-away cascade set within the spruce and fir of Medicine Bow National Forest in southeastern Wyoming. The waterfall offers a peaceful, photogenic scene amid rugged forested slopes—an easy-to-reach reward for hikers who want a short outing away from busier trailheads. The setting feels intimate and wooded, with the stream dropping through rock outcrops and mossy banks that are especially pretty after spring runoff. The walk to the falls is a pleasing moderate outing rather than a strenuous trek: the route is a 2.0-mile out-and-back with about 300 feet of elevation gain, making it a great half-day excursion for hikers with some experience. Camping options are not immediate to the falls; the nearest developed site, Curtis Gulch Campground, is roughly 16.95 km (about 10.5 miles) away, so plan any overnight stays accordingly.
The Setting
Wagon Hound Falls sits at 6,660 feet along the Deer Creek In Canyon,, in the high mountains of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail to Wagon Hound Falls is an approximately 2.0-mile out-and-back with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain. Rated moderate, the path follows forested tread through Medicine Bow National Forest and includes short inclines and occasional rocky sections—suitable for hikers who are comfortable on uneven singletrack. There is no USFS trail number provided for this route; expect a natural surface and typical mountain forest footing rather than paved trail.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Wagon Hound Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Wagon Hound Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and stay on marked trails. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden rain or storms.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 22 miles away
19 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 36 years of record
2.65 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 regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DEER CREEK IN CANYON, NEAR GLENROCK, WY (35 km away).
Today
Roaring
22 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
19 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
17 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
14 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
13 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
13 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
12 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, peaking in April.
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 Esterbrook hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Wagon Hound Falls is located in the Medicine Bow National Forest. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions. Directions should be confirmed with local ranger stations or reliable trail resources.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
6,660 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.558662° N, -105.648591° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can become slippery after rain. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience.
This trail sits at 6,660 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.
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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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.0 miles and 300 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Sleep Inn & Suites Douglas
The Blue Buffalo Motel
Hampton Inn & Suites Douglas
Plains motel
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
Curtis Gulch Campground
10.5 miles away · 6 sites
Overview Curtis Gulch Campground sits at an elevation of 6,640 feet, at the end of the long and scenic LaBonte Canyon. There are 6 sites along a bend in the creek with picnic tables, fire rings, pedestal grills, a vault toilet, pump water well, and trash bins. Recreation Recreation The canyon bottom is about 6,700 feet in elevation and has granite rock formations for technical rock climbing and photography. LaBonte Creek runs through the entire length of the canyon and offers anglers many opportu
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include other trails in the Medicine Bow National Forest and scenic drives through the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds. Visitors should be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if hiking in the region.
Cities near Wagon Hound Falls
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