Place · 0 mi away
Overview
This is a pleasant connector that links Roosevelt Lodge to the Tower Fall Campground/General Store area along a forested hillside. It’s 2 miles one way (about 4 miles total out-and-back). Expect a real trail: dirt underfoot, some climbs, and seasonal conditions. If you want to see Tower Fall without battling the parking lot, hiking in from the lodge is the move.
Route and distance
From Roosevelt Lodge, follow the signed trail toward Tower Fall Campground/General Store. It’s 2.0 miles one way through forest and meadow breaks. Once at the developed area, a short walkway leads to the Tower Fall overlook. If you return the same way, your total is about 4 miles. Optional add‑on: from the overlook, continue another 0.75 miles one way to where Tower Creek meets the Yellowstone River; the grade back up is steep and can feel strenuous.
What you’ll see
Tower Fall drops 132 feet from the edge of eroded volcanic rock—those “tower” pinnacles are its namesake. The broader area showcases Yellowstone’s volcanic past: ancient Absaroka volcanics, columnar basalt in the nearby canyon, and the erosive work of the Yellowstone River. Views are best at the overlook; along the connector, you’ll get a quieter forest walk with occasional peeks toward the river corridor.
Logistics
Parking is limited at Tower Fall Campground if you decide to stage a car shuttle. Vault toilets are available in the campground, and facilities operate seasonally near the General Store. There’s no official shuttle between the lodge and Tower Fall—plan on hiking both ways unless you arrange your own.
Best time to hike
Go early or late in the day to beat crowds at the overlook and for softer light on the falls. Shoulder seasons can be lovely, but conditions change fast—ask rangers about trail status and any closures. In winter, the area is popular for cross‑country skiing via the Tower Fall Ski Trail (a different route from this connector).
Safety and closures
The lower trail to the base of Tower Fall is closed due to erosion—do not descend. If you continue past the overlook toward the river confluence, expect a steep climb back. This is prime wildlife country: carry bear spray, make noise in brushy sections, and give animals space. Check current conditions before you go.
Pros
- Bypasses the busy Tower Fall parking scene with a scenic approach
- Easy add‑on to the river confluence if you want a bit more adventure
Cons
- Not a loop—without a car shuttle you’re hiking it both ways
- Steep grades near Tower Fall can be taxing on the return if you add the spur
Parking
Start at Roosevelt Lodge. If staging a shuttle, note limited parking at Tower Fall Campground; vault toilets at the campground and seasonal facilities near the General Store.
Caution
Area to base of Tower Fall is closed due to erosion; steep grade beyond the overlook. Carry bear spray and observe wildlife distance rules. Verify current trail and facility status before hiking.
