Mystic Falls in Yellowstone National Park is a stunning 70-foot cascade waterfall that cascades down the Little Firehole River. The Mystic Falls Trail, which starts at the Biscuit Basin in the Upper Geyser Basin, offers a family-friendly hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, this trail is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Yellowstone.
Trail Details
The Mystic Falls Trail can be hiked as an out-and-back trip or as a loop that includes the Upper Geyser Basin overlook. The distance and elevation gain vary depending on the route you choose:
| Route | Distance | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Out-and-Back | 2.4 miles roundtrip | 250 feet |
| Loop | 3.4 miles roundtrip | 750 feet |
The trail is considered easy to moderately challenging, with some steep sections and loose gravel trails. It’s important to wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes with good traction to ensure your safety and comfort on the hike.
Trailhead Options
There are two main trailhead options for accessing the Mystic Falls Trail:
- Biscuit Basin Boardwalk: The trailhead is located 0.3 miles from the far side of the Biscuit Basin boardwalk.
- Upper Geyser Basin–Biscuit Basin Trail: Alternatively, you can park 0.25 miles south of Biscuit Basin and walk 0.5 miles north along the Upper Geyser Basin–Biscuit Basin Trail to the trailhead.
Safety and Preparation
When hiking the Mystic Falls Trail, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Bear Spray: Carry bear spray and know how to use it, especially in winter conditions when trails may be obscured by snow.
- Water and Shoes: Bring a full, reusable water bottle and wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes with good tread to ensure balance on the trail.
- Winter Access: In winter, access to the trailhead is only possible by snowmobile or snow coach from Old Faithful Snow Lodge. You can rent snowshoes or skis and arrange a shuttle to Biscuit Basin.
Additional Considerations
While hiking the Mystic Falls Trail, there are a few other factors to keep in mind:
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in early morning and late evening. Bring bug repellent to minimize their impact.
- Winter Conditions: The trail can be magical in winter, but it requires snowshoes or cross-country skis and a GPS software like GAIA GPS to navigate through the snow.
Conclusion
The Mystic Falls Trail in Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the park’s natural wonders. With its stunning waterfall, diverse landscapes, and family-friendly difficulty level, this hike offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re planning a summer adventure or a winter wonderland, be sure to add the Mystic Falls Trail to your Yellowstone itinerary.
References
- https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/hiking/mystic-falls-in-yellowstone/
- https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/yell-trail-mystic-falls.htm
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60999-d2324530-Reviews-Mystic_Falls_Trail-Yellowstone_National_Park_Wyoming.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystic_Falls
- https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wyoming/mystic-falls-fairy-creek-and-little-firehole-loop