Hiking The Fairy Falls Trail

Hiking the Fairy Falls Trail in Yellowstone National Park

Some hikes are about the destination, others about the journey. On the Fairy Falls Trail, you get both—a peaceful walk through Yellowstone’s forests and the reward of standing before a 200-foot cascade that feels like nature’s own lullaby.

Your adventure begins near the Midway Geyser Basin, where the trail starts with a straightforward path along open terrain. Early on, a side trail beckons you to the Grand Prismatic Spring overlook. From this elevated vantage point, Yellowstone’s most iconic hot spring comes alive in vivid detail. Its fiery reds and oranges fade into emerald greens and cobalt blues, a masterpiece of geothermal artistry spread across the land like a painter’s palette.

Back on the main trail, the landscape shifts. The lodgepole pine forest wraps around you, its cool shade and the gentle rustle of leaves creating a serene cocoon. The air carries the earthy scent of pine and the distant promise of water.

And then, Fairy Falls appears, its graceful stream tumbling down a sheer cliff. The mist hangs delicately in the air, refreshing and light, while the sound of cascading water drowns out all distractions. The base of the falls is a sanctuary, inviting you to linger. Whether you pause for a picnic, snap photos, or simply sit and take it all in, Fairy Falls leaves an impression as soft and enduring as its mist.

For the intrepid, the trail extends to Imperial and Spray Geysers, where bubbling pools and steaming vents offer a quieter glimpse of Yellowstone’s geothermal magic. But even without these detours, the Fairy Falls Trail reminds you that in Yellowstone, beauty can be found in both the grand and the serene.

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Adventure Guide Summary

Fairy Falls Trail

• Trailhead: Near Midway Geyser Basin, 6 miles north of Old Faithful.
• Distance:
  • 5 miles round trip to Fairy Falls.
  • 7.6 miles round trip with Imperial and Spray Geyser extensions.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; flat and well-marked paths.
• Features: Grand Prismatic Overlook, serene forest trails, Fairy Falls, and optional geyser views.
• Tips:
  • Visit early for fewer crowds at Grand Prismatic.
  • Carry bear spray and stay alert.
  • Bring water, snacks, and a camera for capturing the magic.