Dogs are not specified for this trail; check current park rules before bringing a dog.

Wraith Falls Trailhead: Short Hike to a Waterfall View

Q: Is a permit required?

No permit for day hiking; pay the park entrance fee.

Q: How long is the hike?

0.8-1 mile round trip; 15 minutes to 1 hour depending on pace.

Q: Is the waterfall view accessible for all ages?

Short hike with stairs; the viewing area is fenced and may be less suitable for extremely young children who need close supervision.

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Overview

About This Trail

Wraith Falls Trail is an easy out-and-back stroll of roughly 0.8–1 mile with about 79–100 ft of gain. The surface shifts from packed dirt to boardwalks and a few stairs, with partial shade from a Douglas-fir forest and meadows. High reward for the effort: a short, family-friendly stop at a waterfall with a fenced viewing area. Stay alert for bears and changing weather, and carry adequate water and bear spray.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy Stroll

Trail Highlights

Wraith Falls cascade from a rocky cliff; short, fenced overlook with opportunities to get closer with safe scrambling around the edge

Insider Tips

- There’s a short climb with a few stairs near the viewpoint; strollers and wheelchairs may have trouble. - In spring, the waterfall flows most powerfully; midday sun offers good photography light. - The fenced viewpoint keeps kids close; supervise children at all times.

Best Season to Hike

Spring through Fall (May–October)

Hiking Tips

Carry 2L water minimum.
Bear spray is strongly recommended in bear country.
Start cold and move steadily; the trail is short but uneven in places.
Use the fenced overlook and mind the stairs when bringing kids or older travelers.

Family Info

Short length and fenced viewpoint make it suitable for children

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 90 ft

Duration: 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on pace

Difficulty: Easy Stroll

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Packed dirt, sagebrush, boardwalks, with some stairs

Getting There

Trailhead: Grand Loop Road, ~5 miles southeast of Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone NP

Parking: Decent-sized parking lot

Fills Up: Arrive before 9:00 AM to secure parking

Requirements

Permit Required

National Park Entrance Fee

Fees: $35 per vehicle entrance (valid for 7 days). America the Beautiful Pass accepted.

Shuttle Available

Not applicable

Trail Rules

Dogs: Dog policy not published here; verify on-site signage for leash rules before hiking.

Biking: Bike access isn’t documented for this trail; it’s primarily a hiking route.

Trail Markers: Well-marked with boardwalks and stairs

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable water sources on the trail; carry sufficient water

Shade: Partial shade from forest and open meadows

Cell Service: Cell service is usually limited or unavailable near the trailhead; don’t rely on your phone for navigation.

Hazards:

Bear country—keep noise, travel in groups when possible, and carry bear spray; thunderstorms bring lightning risk; water crossings can be treacherous; stairs can be slick when wet

Emergency: In emergencies, call 911; contact Yellowstone National Park rangers

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate

Peak Times: Summer mornings

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs

Family Notes:

Short length and fenced viewpoint make it suitable for children

Nearby Facilities

Parking: paved lot adjacent to the trailhead with space for several vehicles. Restrooms and drinking water are not confirmed on site.

Reviews

★★★★★

5.0 /5

Based on 20 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Fairly easy hike to the view point. Across the creek and up a couple hundred yards after you hike in around a mile. It’s not too steep.Birds and marmots(or something?) in abundance.

The short hike to the waterfall is worth the views.

Short trail with some wildlife. Beautiful falls at the end

Showing 3 of 20 reviews

FAQs

Are bears a concern on this trail?

Yes. Bear country is present; stay on trail, make noise, and carry bear spray.

Is a permit required?

How long is the hike?

Can I bring my dog?

Is the waterfall view accessible for all ages?

📖 hikespeak.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 liveandlethike.com 📖 utahsadventurefamily.com 📖 annestravels.net 📖 10adventures.com 📖 hike734.com 📖 yellowstone.net 📖 americansouthwest.net 📖 quora.com 📖 wereintherockies.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Wraith Falls Trailhead