LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
West Dell Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainTrail Length
0.4 miles
About West Dell Falls
West Dell Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked into Teton National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are a great pick for hikers seeking a peaceful, lesser-known destination: flows swell in spring and early summer with snowmelt, and the pool and surrounding vegetation make it a pleasant spot to pause and enjoy the forested setting. Because it sits on National Forest land, the setting feels open and wild rather than developed. Access is via the USFS Dell Creek Trail (Trail #2124). The route’s moderate difficulty and forested corridor make West Dell Falls an inviting half-day adventure for locals and visitors alike.
The Setting
West Dell Falls sits at 8,648 feet within Teton National Forest, in the high alpine of Wyoming.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Dell Creek (#2124), a 0.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
DELL CREEK #2124
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.43 miTrail Description
Dell Creek Trail (USFS Trail #2124) is the official approach to West Dell Falls. USFS trail data lists the route as Class 3 with a native material surface; the GIS segment length is recorded as 0.43 miles on Forest Service maps. Hikers should expect a natural tread (native soil) and a moderate-grade ascent—check current Forest Service conditions for any seasonal changes before heading out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil environment with scenic views of the waterfall and surrounding wilderness. The area may have uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at West Dell Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at West Dell Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have the highest flow 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. Check with Teton National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 49°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and potential wildlife encounters. Carry bear spray if hiking in bear country and inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Hoback River, 18.5 miles away, not on West Dell Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
218 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 18 years of record
4.82 ft
Water depth at gauge
49°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is very cold at 49 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 HOBACK RIVER NEAR JACKSON, WY (30 km away).
Today
Low
254 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
269 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
241 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
229 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
223 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
236 cfs
3/10Wed
Barely Flowing
224 cfs
5/10Best window: Sat — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late 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 Bondurant hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 184 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 8,628 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 191 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 153 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 8,628 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 184 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of West Dell Falls is not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking resources or contact nearby ranger stations for directions and trailhead information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and consider carpooling if traveling with a group.
Elevation
8,648 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.331050° N, -110.313515° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the area may become muddy or slippery after rain.
This trail sits at 8,648 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.
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.
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.
Where to Stay
Crooked Creek Guest Ranch
Studio Cabin with Mtn Views by the Green River!
Cozy Cora Studio Cabin w/ Wind River Mtn Views
Rustic Bondurant Cabin Fish, Hike, and Bike!
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
HOBACK GUARD STATION
9.7 miles away · 2 sites
Overview Water & Power are NOT GUARANTEED, Hoback Guard Station was built in 1935 by the CCC to be used as a working Ranger Station, and is considered eligible to the National Register of Historic Places. About 34 miles from Jackson, Wyoming, This guard station beckons guests who want a scenic backcountry experience with the convenience of electricity and running water and great mountain scenery. Water is NOT available until Mid June or July and will be turned off Mid Sept due to freezing temps a
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but the surrounding area may offer additional hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
Wildlife
The area may be home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with larger animals such as bears.
Cities near West Dell Falls
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