Moose Falls: 30-Foot Geothermally Heated Plunge Waterfall Near

Moose Falls cascades over a rocky ledge into a pool at Yellowstone National Park, framed by pines.

Foaming water spills 30 feet over Crawfish Creek, sending a mist across the spruce. View from above is possible near the trail exit, or you can descend a steep path to the base for a closer look. The drop results from hydrologic erosion, with geothermal warmth shaping the local habitat.

Access & viewing

GPS Coordinates: 44.1518910, -110.6727430
Accessibility: Steep, rugged trail; not wheelchair accessible

Conditions & safety

Permits Required: 0

Planning advice

Nearby Attractions: Lewis Falls; South Boundary Trail begins near the south entry
Nearby Facilities: South Entrance services; nearby lodging at Grant Village and Headwaters Lodge
Best Time To Visit: Late spring through early fall, when the weather is warmer and roads are open. In the early morning, mist over Crawfish Creek and low light create a soft glow for photography; evenings can also work as the falls sit in shade. Avoid midday sun for the best results. The South Entrance road closes in winter, so plan accordingly. The small parking area fills during peak seasons, so arrive early.
Tips Advice: Start from the overlook to assess footing, then decide on the base descent.
Sturdy footwear is essential—the trail to the base is steep and slick.
Bear spray is advisable in Yellowstone; stay alert for wildlife.
Check current conditions for geothermal water temps and closures before entering the base.
Insider Tips: Off-peak morning visits reveal quieter surroundings.
Slightly detour to alternate viewpoints for varied angles.
Temperature of the water varies with geothermal activity—avoid swimming.
Look for visible steam or warm eddies where Crawfish Creek meets the air.

More details

Park Area: Yellowstone National Park, South Entrance Area (Crawfish Creek vicinity)
Family Friendly Notes: Steep descent; footing can be slick; maintain distance from wildlife; supervise children
Recent Updates: No notable updates available
Attraction Type: Geological Formation
Elevation Feet: 6200
Distance From Entrance: 0.5 miles from the South Entrance pullout; 75-yard hike to the base
Accessibility Level: Steep, rugged trail; not wheelchair accessible
How To Get There: From the South Entrance Road pullout on the east side, proceed to the overlook. To reach the base, follow the steep trail down to Crawfish Creek for a close view.
Parking Availability: Small pullout; fills quickly in peak seasons
Road Type: Paved
Seasonal Access: Open late spring to fall; winter access is limited
Entry Fees: Park entrance fee applies
Main Features: Plunge waterfall, 30 ft height, geothermally warmed Crawfish Creek, moose-habitat context
What Youll See: 30 ft waterfall with spray, geothermally warmed water, surrounding spruce habitat, potential moose in the vicinity
Unique Characteristics: Geothermal heating of Crawfish Creek supports warm-water life at higher latitude; named for moose observed in 1885 by the Arnold Hague Geologic Survey
Safety Considerations: Steep, slippery descent; water temperature can be dangerously hot from geothermal activity; bear spray advised; maintain distance from wildlife
Best Viewpoints: Above the falls from the overlook; base viewpoint via the steep descent
Photo Opportunities: Early morning mist and warm light, spray drama from the 30‑ft drop
Photography Spots: Overlook for wide-angle; base for spray close-ups; early light preferred
Sunrise Sunset Quality: Alpenglow potential on clear mornings; spray adds atmosphere
Visitor Center Present: 0
Restrooms Available: 0
Picnic Areas: 0
Interpretive Signs: 0
Cell Service: Spotty
Water Available: 0
Guided Tours Available: 0
Trailheads Here: Trail to base starts at the overlook and continues to the base via a steep path
Connecting Trails: South Boundary Trail; nearby trails linking to Crawfish Creek area
Nearby Services: South Entrance facilities; Grant Village area; Headwaters Lodge nearby
Common Wildlife: Moose (historically abundant), Crawfish in warm waters
Best Wildlife Times: Dawn and dusk; moose activity varies with season
Geological Formation Type: Plunge waterfall (geothermal context)
Scientific Interest: Geothermal influence on habitat; hydrology of Crawfish Creek; moose ecology near warm-water systems
Road Opening Dates: Open late spring to fall; check current conditions
Snow Lingering: Snow can linger into late spring at higher elevations
Winter Access: Limited; snow-packed conditions require careful planning
Best Visit Times: Weekday mornings in shoulder seasons; early dawn for mist
Best Season: Late spring to early fall
Weather Patterns: Mornings cooler; afternoon warmth can increase spray visibility; weather shifts with elevation
Peak Fill Times: Parking fills quickly in peak season; arrive early or plan for overflow
Busiest Season: Summer weekends and holidays
Waterfall Height: 30 ft
Waterfall Flow Rate: Variable; higher in spring
Fishing Species: Crawfish
Fishing Nearby: 0
Swimming Allowed: 0
Boating Allowed: 0
Climbing Areas: 0
Review Summary: 4.9 stars from 33 reviews reflect a straightforward, accessible view of a geothermal-influenced waterfall. Visitors appreciate proximity to the road, the short hike to the base, and the misty atmosphere; warnings about slick trails and hot water are common.

Location

Photos

Moose Falls scene along a forested stream in Yellowstone National Park, with pine trees and a bright blue sky.

Moose Falls cascades beside a rocky overlook with sunlit pines in Yellowstone National Park.

Moose Falls waterfall drops from rugged rock ledges into a rocky pool, Yellowstone National Park.

Moose Falls in Yellowstone National Park cascades beside rugged rocks and lush alpine vegetation.

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Parking is limited and fills quickly in peak season; plan to arrive early or use the overflow areas and be prepared for a short walk from the lot.

Is it worth the 75-yard hike to the base?

Yes. The close-up view reveals spray and heat-enhanced habitat; the steep descent is part of the experience, but footing can be slick, so take your time.

Can I bring my dog to Moose Falls?

Dogs aren’t permitted on the trail to the base; they may be allowed in developed areas only—plan to keep pets secured away from the trail.

Is the water safe to touch or swim in?

Do not touch or swim. Geothermal activity can heat water unexpectedly and cause burns; stick to established overlooks and be mindful of hot eddies.

What is the best time for photography?

Early mornings during golden hour give soft light and enhanced mist; avoid harsh midday glare when possible.