Hiking To Fairy Falls And The Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook in Yellowstone National Park
The Fairy Falls Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Yellowstone National Park. This scenic trail takes hikers past open meadows and through a lush lodgepole pine forest before ending at one of Yellowstone’s most spectacular waterfalls.
The trail is situated in the southwestern part of Yellowstone National Park. Visitors can park one mile south of Midway Geyser Basin at the Fairy Falls Parking Lot.
This is a very popular hike so the lot can get full. Try going early in the morning or later in the day to beat the crowds.
This is an almost five mile out-and-back hike. It is relatively flat though so it’s an easy trail for the family. The trail doesn’t open until late May because it is part of the Bear Management Area.
Additionally, always be prepared and carry bear spray when exploring any hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park.
From the parking lot travel across the bridge and follow the wide paved (maybe gravel) path until you reach the woods. A trek through the forest will end at Fairy Falls.
It’s a tall waterfall that cascades over a rocky ledge plunging more than 200 feet down into a shallow pool below.
If you want to make the hike longer you can continue 0.6 miles to Spray and Imperial geysers. We decided to skip that part and just turned around and headed back to the trailhead.
The famous Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the largest hot springs in the world and you will pass the overlook for it during this hike. DO NOT skip the overlook!
You have to do a little climbing, but the view of Grand Prismatic Spring from the top is breathtaking.
The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, so keep an eye out for bison, elk, and various bird species.
Overall, Fairy Falls Trail is a beautiful and relatively easy hike that provides a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park and witness the enchanting Fairy Falls waterfall and Grand Prismatic Spring.
It’s a trail that absolutely should be added to your itinerary while visiting the park.
