Bridal Veil Falls via Cow Creek

Overview

This is a moderate out-and-back to a compact, photogenic waterfall in the Lumpy Ridge corner of the park. Expect about 6.2 miles total (round trip) with roughly 1,000 feet of gain, topping out below 9,000 feet—great for acclimating. The first miles cruise through open meadows with big-sky views, summer wildflowers, and frequent elk sightings. The second half tucks into forest along Cow Creek, where you’ll pass small cascades before a short, steep finale to the falls.

Bridal Veil Falls itself drops around 20 feet over broad granite slabs—the namesake “veil” effect is best when flow is higher. It’s a rewarding destination, but the last bit is no casual stroll: you’ll climb rock steps and slabby granite, which can be slick when wet.

Route Guide

Start from the Cow Creek Trailhead by McGraw Ranch. Walk through the historic ranch area on easy track that narrows to singletrack as you follow Cow Creek through meadows. Around 1.2 miles, pass a junction toward Balanced Rock/Gem Lake—continue straight. Near 1.9–2.0 miles, meet the Dark Mountain Trail; turn right toward Bridal Veil Falls as the grade and rockiness increase and the route hugs the creek.

At roughly 2.9–3.1 miles, you’ll reach a horse hitching post and a small cascade. This is the tricky spot: skip the tempting left spur toward the creek; instead, stay right and head up the steep rock steps and slabs to reach the main falls.

Best Times to Hike

Late spring into early summer is prime for water volume, though snowmelt can mean mud and tricky, wet rock near the falls. Fall brings aspen color without the slop. In winter, this lower-elevation route is a popular snowshoe when conditions allow. Crowds are typically lighter than the park’s marquee corridors, but the small lot still rewards an early start.

What You’ll See

• Meadows with wildflowers and recurring elk and mule deer activity.
• Stands of aspen and mixed conifers, plus granite outcrops classic to Lumpy Ridge.
• Cow Creek’s smaller cascades leading to the tiered rock of Bridal Veil Falls.

Logistics and Tips

• Parking is limited at the Cow Creek Trailhead off Devils Gulch Road via McGraw Ranch Road; arrive early and expect a short walk through McGraw Ranch to reach the signed trail.
• The final 0.1–0.25 miles are steep and can be slick—grippy footwear and trekking poles help.
• Cell service is spotty; download your map before you go.
• Backcountry campers can make this an overnight to catch the falls at dawn via the permitted Peregrine or Rabbit Ears sites (advance reservations required).
• During the park’s seasonal timed-entry period, a reservation may be required for this area during controlled hours; check current details before you go.