Fairy Falls Ski Trail

A skier looks up at the ice formations surrounding a frozen waterfall.

The Fairy Falls Ski Trail is a 10-mile winter ski mission in Yellowstone's Old Faithful area, ranked easy to more difficult depending on conditions and your route choice. Most of the terrain is level with manageable hills near the falls, but the real challenge is the exposure: open snowfields, thermal area crossings where you'll need to unstrap skis and walk, and constant wind. The payoff is icy views of one of Yellowstone's most popular waterfalls and, if you push further, rolling terrain and geyser basin scenery. Expect 6-8 hours of grit.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 10
Route Type: Round-trip
Difficulty Level: Easy to More Difficult
Elevation Gain Feet: 160

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 10
Route Type: Round-trip
Difficulty Level: Easy to More Difficult
Elevation Gain Feet: 160
Estimated Time: 6-8 hours
Trail Surface: Skier-tracked snow with thermal area crossings requiring foot travel
Trail Features: Fairy Falls waterfall in winter
Forested sections
Hydrothermal features
Geothermal thermal basins
Level to rolling terrain
Trail Highlights: Icy views of one of Yellowstone's most popular waterfalls. Optional Powerline Trail extension offers rolling hills and geyser basin views.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Access from Fountain Flats Drive or Upper Geyser Basin Trail. Ski 1.3 miles on Fountain Flats Drive, then turn left onto Fairy Falls Trail.
Shuttle Required: 1
Shuttle Details: Skier shuttle reservations may be required. One-way or round-trip shuttles are available. Reservations: 307-344-7311, Toll-free: 866-439-7375, TDD: 304-344-5395. Call the day before to confirm availability.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required: Yes
Permit Details: Shuttle reservations are required. Contact park hotels or call 307-344-7311, Toll-free: 866-439-7375, TDD: 304-344-5395.
Fees: No trail access fees. Shuttle costs vary; contact park for pricing.
Trail Status: Open winter season, snow-dependent
Seasonal Closures: Closed May - November (summer season); winter access only

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Melt snow carefully away from thermal features. Avoid drinking from geothermal springs—unstable ground and toxic mineral content.
Accessibility: Level terrain with some hills and bends near the falls. 160 feet elevation gain. Service dogs allowed.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Wildlife: bison, elk, bears, wolves
Thermal area ground instability
Winter exposure: cold, wind, snow blindness
Difficult snow conditions
Dehydration in cold
Hazard Details: Bison and elk frequent this trail. Federal regulations require 100 yards distance from bears and wolves, 25 yards from bison. Ground is unstable in hydrothermal areas—stay on trail and boardwalks. Thermal crossings require removing skis and walking. Winter wind chill and snow conditions demand constant awareness.
Cell Service: Spotty to none; assume no service. Carry a satellite communicator.
Crowd Level: Moderate to high in peak winter season
Peak Crowd Times: December - February
Best Season: Winter (December - March)
Best Time To Visit: Winter, typically December through early March when snow is consistent. Avoid late February thaws. Start by 6 AM to maximize daylight and secure a shuttle slot. Call 307-344-7311 the day before to reserve.
Tips Advice: Carry 3L water minimum; dehydration in cold is insidious.
Tighten boot straps before every thermal crossing.
Make noise constantly; bison are unpredictable.
Pack extra gloves and socks—wet extremities kill fast.
Layers: base, insulating, windproof. Snow blindness is real; wear sunglasses.
Know your escape route before thermal crossings.
If you slip on snow, self-arrest immediately.

More details

Park Area: Old Faithful Area
Trail Markers: Well-marked skier-tracked trail, but winter conditions can obscure markers; map and compass essential
Dogs Allowed: Qualified service animals only, must be leashed and under control at all times
Biking Allowed: No; winter skis and snowshoes only
Shade Level: Mixed; forested sections provide shelter from wind, open snowfields expose you to sun reflection and wind chill
Emergency Contacts: Call 307-344-7311 (park) or 866-439-7375 (toll-free) before heading out. In emergency, use satellite communicator or signal for ranger patrol.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Typically December - March, snow-dependent
Mud Season: Not applicable; winter trail
Wildflower Peak: Not applicable; winter trail
Fall Colors Peak: Not applicable; winter trail
Bug Season: Not applicable; winter trail
Insider Tips: The thermal area crossings are the real hazard—remove skis early and scout before committing.
Bison frequent this section; stay loud and alert.
The Powerline Trail return (more difficult) offers rolling terrain and fewer crowds if you're fit.
Winter days are short; be off the trail by 3 PM.
Call the shuttle service the morning of to confirm conditions.
Snow conditions vary weekly—early season is more stable.
Family Friendly Notes: Requires intermediate winter skiing or snowshoeing skills. Families must have experienced skiers. Children need close supervision near thermal features and wildlife.
Review Summary: Winter skiers report the waterfall is spectacular in icy conditions. Consensus: terrain is manageable, but thermal crossings and wildlife encounters demand respect and skills. Most finish in 6-8 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this as a beginner skier?

No. You need intermediate ski control to manage the terrain, especially near the falls and on the return. Snowshoers can manage, but they'll be slower. Beginners should try an easier winter trail first.

Are bears and bison really a problem?

Yes. Bison frequent this trail and are unpredictable. Stay 100+ yards away. Make constant noise. If a bear or wolf appears, back away slowly and leave the trail. This isn't paranoia—it's wildlife habitat.

What do the thermal crossings feel like?

You're walking in heavy boots on unstable ground with patches of bare earth and steam vents nearby. It's exposed and unnerving the first time. Scout the crossing before committing and step only where ground is solid.

Is the shuttle worth it?

Yes. The shuttle saves the brutal first miles and gives you more daylight for the falls and return. Pay for it. If it's full, self-propel by 6 AM, not later.

Do I need a map?

Absolutely. Snow covers trail markers and terrain landmarks. GPS or map + compass is mandatory. Cell service is nonexistent.

How cold does it get?

Expect 0–20°F with wind chill dropping it further. Layering is survival. Wet gear at 10°F will kill you. Pack spares.