Moose Falls

Moose Falls drops 30 feet in a broad curtain over a dark basalt ledge on Crawfish Creek, just inside Yellowstone's South Entrance. The falls spread wide across the rock face, the water warmed slightly by upstream thermal features that give it an unusual tepid quality — a novelty among the park's waterfalls. The pool below is popular for wading on warm days, and the surrounding meadow and forest attract the moose that gave the falls their name.

The trail is a mere 75-yard walk from a pulloff on the South Entrance Road, making this arguably the easiest waterfall to access in all of Yellowstone. A short path descends to the base of the falls and the wading pool. The entire visit takes less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect first or last stop when entering or leaving the park from the south.

The falls flow from May through October when the road is open. The thermal input keeps the water slightly warmer than other park streams, extending the wading season. Morning visitors often spot moose grazing in the meadows near the trailhead. This is an excellent quick stop to stretch your legs after the drive from Grand Teton National Park.