Natural AttractionFort Yellowstone Overlook
Travertine terraces from Mammoth Hot Springs; calcium carbonate deposition in action.
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Cave Falls
Last Updated: January 2026
Type
Geological Formation
Accessibility
Drive-up view with short trails; easy base and overlook; unpaved final approach may challenge some vehicles
Best Season
Summer to early fall
Busiest Season
Summer
Features
Widest waterfall in Yellowstone; 250 ft wide; 20 ft tall; Fall River; remote Bechler region; lava-flow terrain underlying
Elevation
7,000 ft
Overview
About This Attraction
Silvery water spills across a 250-foot-wide curtain, dropping 20 feet into a churned pool below, framed by forest along the Bechler River. Viewpoints at the base and above the falls give two angles on the long, shallow drop. The Fall River has carved Cave Falls through ancient lava-flow terrain from the Yellowstone caldera, a clear display of water's persistent erosive power.
Quick Facts
Type
Geological Formation
Elevation
7,000 ft
Access
Drive-up view with short trails; easy base and overlook; unpaved final approach may challenge some vehicles
Main Features
Widest waterfall in Yellowstone; 250 ft wide; 20 ft tall; Fall River; remote Bechler region; lava-flow terrain underlying
What You'll See
A broad 250 ft-wide curtain of water drops 20 ft into a swift pool; forested riverbanks frame the scene; two viewing points—base and overlook
What Makes It Special
Bechler’s widest waterfall; remote Bechler region setting; erosion of ancient lava-flow terrain by the Fall River; dual viewing platforms
Best Time to Visit
Summer to early fall for best road conditions; morning light is good for the base view, late afternoon for the overlook; avoid midday glare and heavy rain that roughens the road.
Safety Considerations
Beware of slippery rocks near the base; bears are common in this area—carry bear spray and make noise while hiking. The final gravel road can be rough after rain; stay off the edge and drive cautiously.
Visitor Tips
- Bear spray is highly recommended in this bear country.
- Wear sturdy footwear; wet rocks near the base can be slick.
- Final approach is gravel; a higher-clearance vehicle helps.
- Parking can fill; allow extra time and use both lots if needed.
- Cell service is unreliable; download maps offline before you go.
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ℹ️ Data Sources
trailsoffroad.com usda.gov world-of-waterfalls.com utahsadventurefamily.com youtube.com rexburgonline.com thedyrt.com yellowstone.co blogspot.com nps.gov wikipedia.org reddit.com Google Reviews YourNPGuide Editorial
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