Fairy Falls Trail (U.S. National Park Service)

Steam rises from a blue-, yellow-, and orange-colored hot spring.

Fairy Falls, 200 feet (61 m) high, is one of Yellowstone's most spectacular waterfalls. From the trailhead, walk 1.6 miles (2.6 km) through a young lodgepole pine forest to the falls. You can continue 0.6 miles (0.97 km) to Spray and Imperial geysers, which adds 1.2 miles (1.9 km) to the hike.

Safety notes: Trail opens in late May (Bear Management Area closure). Parking is very limited.

Trailheads: There are two trailheads and two different approaches to reach Fairy Falls. Either park at the end of Fountain Flat Drive or park 1 mile (1.6 km) south of Midway Geyser Basin at the Fairy Falls Parking Lot.

This is either a 5.4-mile (8.6-kilometer) or a 6.7-mile (10.7-kilometer) there-and-back trail that begins and ends at the same trailhead.

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

This trail is located in the western part of the park, with trailheads both north and south of Midway Geyser Basin.

Steam rises from a blue- and orange-colored hot spring. — Hot spring along the Fairy Falls trail.
NPS/Diane Renkin

More on Day Hikes in Yellowstone

Yellowstone Backcountry Situation Report

Current conditions for Yellowstone National Park trails & campsites.
Safety in Yellowstone

Prepare yourself to safely enjoy wildlife, hydrothermal areas, and other features of Yellowstone National Park.
Bear Spray

Read about this highly effective bear deterrent.