Bechler Falls

Bechler Falls is a roughly 15-foot cascade on the Bechler River in Yellowstone’s southwest Cascade Corner. It is a worthwhile add-on if you are already heading to Cave Falls and want a river walk; this is a separate waterfall farther upstream, not the road-end Cave Falls itself. Expect roughly three miles round trip on foot, so this is not a roadside glance.

Start at the Cave Falls trailhead and follow the river corridor upstream. The route reaches the Falls River and Bechler River confluence before continuing along the Bechler; trip reports describe mostly level walking with gentle rises, shaded stretches and the sound of rapids along the way. Published estimates vary from about 2.6 to 3 miles round trip, so allow a little margin. One account describes a small meadow about 100 yards beyond the falls, a more open pause after the wooded river walk.

Reach the trailhead via Cave Falls Road from Ashton, Idaho. It is a remote drive, and the road’s current surface and seasonal status were not verified; check road conditions before setting out. The NPS warns that the nearby Fall River ford is wide, dangerous and not recommended. Stay on the maintained route and do not use that ford as a shortcut. The trailhead has an information kiosk and parking. Toilet availability is uncertain: one visitor account mentions restrooms at the parking area, but the NPS listing does not. Bring food and water; no services are listed here. Pets are not allowed on the trail.

These are broad, low falls divided by rock ledges and wooded islands, rather than one tall plunge. From near the water, leave some river in the foreground and frame the cascade across the channel; it shows how the flow splits around the islands and gives the modest drop context.

Explorers E. C. Gregg and C. H. Birdseye named the falls in 1921. The stream’s repeated cascades are part of the character of this remote corner of Yellowstone, where the waterfall is one stop in a larger river landscape.