Are there fees or permits required for Wahhi Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Wahhi Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Wahhi Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Wahhi Falls.

Live Conditions · 91 ft³/s · About average

Wahhi Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Wahhi Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Wahhi Falls.

Wyoming

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Yellowstone National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

National Park Service Public Domain · National Park Service

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Wahhi Falls

Wahhi Falls is a tucked-away cascade within Yellowstone National Park, managed by the National Park Service. Though the falls themselves are not widely documented in published sources for exact height or seasonal flow, the site offers a peaceful, less-trafficked alternative for visitors who want a quieter slice of Yellowstone backcountry. The falls sit inside the boundaries of the nation’s first national park (established 1872), so visitors should follow park regulations and backcountry etiquette while exploring the area. Access to Wahhi Falls is achieved via a short, steady hike: the established route is a 2.4-mile out-and-back that gains roughly 350 feet and is rated moderate. Park records do not list a formal USFS trail number for this route since it lies on NPS land; hikers should be prepared for natural tread and occasional steep sections, carry good footwear and basic navigation, and note that the nearest developed camping is Cave Falls Campground, about 19.6 km away.

The Setting

Wahhi Falls sits at 7,680 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Firehole River, in the high mountains of Wyoming.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail type: Out-and-back. Length: 2.4 miles (round-trip). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Managing agency: National Park Service (Yellowstone National Park). USFS trail number: not applicable—this route is on NPS land. Surface/grade/class: not specified in park documentation; the trail is an unpaved park path (natural tread) with short steeper pitches consistent with the listed elevation gain. Expect uneven footing in places and carry appropriate footwear and navigation tools.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful and remote natural setting. The waterfall may vary in flow depending on the season, and the surrounding terrain may be rugged.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Wahhi Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Wahhi Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer may offer the best views of the waterfall due to higher water flow from snowmelt.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.

Safety Information

The terrain around Wahhi Falls may be rugged and remote. Visitors should prepare for uneven ground, potential wildlife encounters, and changing weather conditions. Always inform someone of your plans before visiting remote areas.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 34 minutes ago Roaring

91 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

56 60 116 187

Based on 19 years of record

2.83 ft

Water depth at gauge

51°F

Warm

Very comfortable

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 51 degrees F, limit your time in the water.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

Firehole River at Old Faithful, YNP

USGS 06036805

13.0 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 40 sq mi

Altitude: 7,352 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

The exact location and directions to Wahhi Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or guides for accurate directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability near Wahhi Falls is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or no designated parking areas.

Elevation

7680 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.275208° N, -110.877714° W

Land Management

Yellowstone National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the area may lack clear signage. Check weather conditions before visiting, and wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.

This trail sits at 7,680 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV radiation is roughly 31% 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 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

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

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Cave Falls Campground

12.2 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.gov