Tower Fall Yellowstone
Witness the majestic 132-foot Tower Fall in Yellowstone, accessible via an overlook or a rewarding hike to its misty base.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Tower Fall Yellowstone
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the majestic 132-foot Tower Fall in Yellowstone, accessible via an overlook or a rewarding hike to its misty base.
"Worth it's weight in gold. The falls are inspiring and if you leave out of the parking area and take a right, there are two quick stops on the back side of the falls."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail to the bottom is steep and uneven. Good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable descent.
🐻 Watch for Wildlife
Black bears are often spotted in the area. Keep a safe distance and never feed them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tower Fall Overlook
Admire the majestic 132-foot waterfall from a convenient, accessible viewpoint. Perfect for a quick stop and stunning photos.
Hike to the Base
Embark on a rewarding hike to feel the mist and get up close to the powerful cascade. A truly memorable experience.
Wildlife Spotting
Keep your eyes peeled for black bears and other animals in the surrounding trees and along the riverbanks. Always maintain a safe distance.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Tower Fall
Navigating Tower Fall Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The November 19th, 2023 view of Tower Falls from the overlook.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail to the bottom is steep and uneven. Good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable descent.
🐻 Watch for Wildlife
Black bears are often spotted in the area. Keep a safe distance and never feed them.
Tower Falls
Which Yellowstone National Park falls is this picture?
📸 Capture the View
The overlook offers a fantastic photo opportunity, but the hike to the base provides a more intimate perspective.
💧 Feel the Mist
Getting close to the falls on the lower trail means you'll get a refreshing spray of mist.
Can I access the Tower Falls Campground to hike up Tower Creek this year?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail to the bottom is steep and uneven. Good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable descent.
🐻 Watch for Wildlife
Black bears are often spotted in the area. Keep a safe distance and never feed them.
📸 Capture the View
The overlook offers a fantastic photo opportunity, but the hike to the base provides a more intimate perspective.
💧 Feel the Mist
Getting close to the falls on the lower trail means you'll get a refreshing spray of mist.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tower Fall for its impressive 132-foot cascade, accessible overlook, and the rewarding hike to its base. Many highlight the opportunity for wildlife sightings and the refreshing mist experienced on the lower trail. While the hike can be steep, most find it manageable and well worth the effort for the stunning views.
"Really fun hike up and down to see the waterfall here. Super grand and very memorable. We actually saw a black bear chase a couple out of the trail before he left the area and we opt for the hike ourselves. Weather was good and despite being busy it never felt super crowded. Trail is very well marked and child friendly enough if you have little ones. Would recommend for the whole family."
Andy
"How did I ever miss this spot in Yellowstone? I sure as heck don't know either. Worth it's weight in gold. The falls are inspiring and if you leave out of the parking area and take a right, there are two quick stops on the back side of the falls. Take the time to check it out."
david lamberti
"Worth a stop while visiting Yellowstone. Several places to look into the Canyons and see the waterfall. Pretty easy waln along paved paths. There is a harder trail with steep inclines if you want to head closer to the water. I wouldn't recommend that short hike unless you can handle steep inclines and uneven dirt paths. Look closely into the trees as there were several near sightings when we were there."
LeWayne Ballard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tower Fall is located in the Tower-Roosevelt area of Yellowstone National Park. It's accessible by car via Grand Loop Road. The parking area is near the general store, offering easy access to the overlook.
Yes, the overlook at Tower Fall is wheelchair accessible, providing a great view for all visitors. The trail to the bottom, however, is not.
You can see Tower Fall from the overlook, which is a short walk from the parking lot. For a more immersive experience, take the trail to the base of the falls, but be prepared for a steep hike.
Yes, after leaving the parking area and heading east, there are a couple of quick stops on the back side of the falls that offer different perspectives.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tower Fall is located within Yellowstone National Park, so you will need a valid Yellowstone National Park entrance pass to visit.
Tower Fall itself is a natural feature and is accessible year-round, weather permitting. The general store and facilities nearby typically operate during park season. Check the official Yellowstone National Park website for current hours.
There is no separate fee for Tower Fall; it is included with your Yellowstone National Park entrance fee.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visiting the overlook takes about 10-15 minutes. The hike to the bottom and back can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the base.
The hike to the bottom is considered moderately difficult due to steep inclines and uneven terrain. It's not recommended for those with mobility issues or young children who cannot handle steep paths.
For the overlook, casual wear is fine. If you plan to hike to the bottom, wear sturdy hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, and bring water.
Swimming is not permitted at Tower Fall due to the powerful currents and rocky terrain.
Restrooms are typically available near the general store and parking area at Tower Fall.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The mist can also add a dramatic effect.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scope of the falls from the overlook. If you hike to the bottom, a lens that can handle some moisture or a protective filter is advisable.
The hike to the bottom offers a unique perspective, allowing you to get close to the water. Some visitors have also found interesting sulfur effects in the water colors on the hidden trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye out for wildlife, as sightings are common in the area. Remind children to maintain a safe distance from any animals they encounter. The general store nearby can be a good spot for a snack or souvenir after your visit.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond the main trail, keep an eye out for the unique geological formations and the possibility of spotting wildlife like black bears. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for scenic drives and further exploration within Yellowstone's vast wilderness.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Tower Fall
Visitors can observe this geological marvel from the overlook, which is easily accessible. For those seeking a more intimate encounter, the trail to the base offers a chance to feel the spray and appreciate the sheer force of the water. The surrounding landscape also showcases the volcanic history of Yellowstone, with colorful mineral deposits visible in some areas.
Hiking to the Base of Tower Fall
Despite the exertion, many find the journey well worth it. Reaching the base allows you to experience the full power and grandeur of the waterfall, with the mist creating a refreshing atmosphere. It's a more immersive experience than viewing from the overlook and offers a different perspective on the falls' scale.
Some adventurous visitors have even discovered hidden trails off the main path, leading to areas with unique water colors due to sulfur deposits. However, these are unofficial and can be more hazardous, so sticking to the marked trail is generally advised for safety.
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