Cave Falls to Bechler Falls

Tucked deep in the Yellowstone National Park backcountry lies a unique but easy hike featuring two fantastic waterfalls.

Getting there

Located in the extreme SW corner of Yellowstone, this area is pure wilderness. To reach Cave Falls it will be necessary to travel from Idaho on a gravel forest service road. With patience any vehicle is capable of making this trip weather permitting. Please note that this road can have snow as late as June so check the weather before heading out.

The closest town is Ashton, Idaho. Ashton, nestled in the shadows of the Grand Tetons, is small town located near Mesa Falls. Ashton, it is only a 25 miles drive to the park entrance. However, due to the roads conditions it will take approximately 2 hours to reach. Did I mention that this place is really out there?

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Besides it natural wonders Yellowstone is famous for its large crowds and lack of parking. So I opted out of the hustle and bustle of the park and went in search of a little solitude. I was glad I did as I saw only 1 family the entire hike.

At the Trailhead

Once at the parking area you will find an information board and a self pay station. It also has restrooms, picnic tables and the trailhead to the falls. The trail itself is well marked and the path is worn. A National Forest campground is located just outside the park if you want to spend the night. There is also a Ranger Station near by incase you run into trouble.

Cave Falls to Bechler falls is a 2.5 mile out and back trail rated easy.

Bechler Falls

After a short 1.2 mile jaunt Bechler Falls comes into view. Bechler Falls is a cascade type falls as the river glides across the stones. It is a relaxing stop with several places to take pictures or have lunch. It also looks like a great place to see the water dipper.

The trail continues beyond Bechler Falls and it looks awesome. This would be a great place for an over night backpacking trip as the star gazing and animal sightings would be amazing.

There are several other notable waterfalls beyond Bechler Falls such as Ouzel Falls (235′), Dunanda Falls (110′) and Colonnade Falls (100′) that would provide great destinations while exploring this remote corner of the park, but I will save that for a future adventure.

After spending a few minutes enjoying Bechler Falls, it was time to head back and discover the second waterfall on this epic hike, Cave Falls. The walk back was just as spectacular. With every step I watch with apprehension along the rivers edge in hopes to get a glimpse of a Moose, Elk or Bear but unfortunately none were up for a pose.

Cave Falls

Once reaching Cave Falls there is a designated viewpoint about 200 yards from where I parked. Cave Falls in its natural setting is bracketed by evergreen trees on both banks and is breathetaking. At 35 feet, Cave Falls is not the highest waterfall in Yellowstone, however it does hold the record for being the widest waterfall in the park, spanning an impressive 250 feet.

Cave Falls is well worth the long drive. The viewpoint provides a couple of great angles of the falls. It also offers beautiful shot of the Fall River as it makes it tranquil journey out of the park and too the sea. This is a must hike to those who love waterfalls, nature and solitude.

If you are open to a long drive on country washboard roads and prefer small crowds then Cave and Bechler Falls (or beyond) is well worth your time. I promise once there you will completely lose track of time exploring them both. Bring your lunch or tent and stay awhile!

Hope to see you on the trail!

~Slow-LEE Hiking