Pros & cons
PROS
- Geothermal steam can create moody, photo‑friendly conditions in cool weather
- Two distinct viewpoints—brink and near‑base—within just a few minutes
CONS
- Pullout is easy to miss and parking is limited
- Steep, slick dirt path to the lower view can be treacherous
Two small roadside pullouts just north of the bridge; look for a subtle pullout marked “Moose.” The path starts on the east side.
Rocks near the water are slick; the short descent to the lower view is steep and unprotected. Crawfish Creek’s currents and changing thermal conditions make wading/swimming hazardous.
Overview
Moose Falls is the definition of quick payoff: a short, easy out‑and‑back that leads to a 30‑foot waterfall on geothermally warmed Crawfish Creek. The main walk is roughly 0.1 miles total (round trip) to the brink viewpoint. Many visitors add a brief, steeper descent to a lower vantage, which can make the total outing closer to a quarter mile. Expect a pretty, intimate falls and—on cool mornings—wisps of steam adding atmosphere.
Getting There
It sits just north of Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Look for small roadside pullouts near a short bridge and a modest path on the east side. Signage can be subtle (watch for a pullout marked “Moose”), and parking is limited, so be ready to turn in promptly when you spot it.
What to Expect
From the pullout, a gradual path leads to the top of the falls. For a better angle, a short, unstepped path drops to near the base—steep and often slick, especially if wet. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to descend. The scene is compact but photogenic, with viewpoints you can reach in minutes. In fall, surrounding foliage can really pop with color.
Best Time to Hike
This is an ideal early‑morning or late‑day stop: softer light for photos, fewer people, and a better chance to see steam rising off the creek. Access depends on the South Entrance road being open (generally late spring through fall). Expect crowds to swell during midday in peak season.
Know Before You Go
- Length: about 0.1 miles total for the upper view; add a short, steeper spur if you descend toward the base.
- Difficulty: easy to the brink; the lower path is steeper and can be slippery.
- Facilities: none at the pullout/trailhead.
- Pets: not permitted on this trail.
- Fees: standard park entrance fee applies.
- Safety: Rocks by the water are slick, and the short descent has exposure. Crawfish Creek can be swift and cold—conditions change; follow posted guidance and use caution near the water.
If You Want More
For another quick stop nearby, Lewis Falls is an easy add while you’re in the South Entrance corridor. If you’re chasing bigger waterfall drama, the Canyon area viewpoints offer grander scale but a longer detour.
Where it starts
44.1518, -110.6727Wildlife on this trail
Near Moose Falls Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayMoose FallsQuick roadside waterfall with easy top-and-bottom viewsPullout · Parking
1.1 mi awaySnake River Picnic AreaRiverside picnic spot with fire grates and big-sky viewsPicnic Table · Restroom
8.2 mi awayLewis FallsRoadside 30‑foot cascade you can admire right from the bridgePullout · Parking
8.2 mi awayLewis Falls TrailBlink-and-you’re-there stroll to a roadside river waterfallEasy · 0.1 mi · 3 min
9.3 mi awayLewis Lake CampgroundRustic, lakeside basecamp with boat ramp and quiet nightsCampground · Restroom
12 mi awayHeart Lake TrailBig lake views, quiet miles, and a brush with backcountry geysersModerate · 15.1 mi · 6 hr
12.2 mi awayShoshone Lake TrailGentle creekside stroll to Yellowstone’s largest wild lakeEasy · 6 mi · 2 hr
12.2 mi awayDogshead TrailForest stroll to Shoshone Lake with a quiet lakeshore payoff.Moderate · 10.8 mi · 4 hr
