Yellowstone National Park 8 scaled

Mystic Falls Yellowstone National Park Park Wyoming United States: A Hidden Gem

by

Mystic Falls, located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, United States, is a captivating natural wonder nestled within the Old Faithful area. This 70-foot cascade offers visitors a serene escape from the bustling geyser basins. The falls are accessible via a moderate hiking trail that winds through picturesque forests and thermal features. With its stunning beauty and relatively easy access, Mystic Falls provides an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.

Where is Mystic Falls Located?

mystic falls yellowstone national park park wyoming united states
Image ‘File:Dead trees at Mammoth Hot Springs.jpg’ by Brocken Inaglory, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Mystic Falls is situated in the Old Faithful area of Yellowstone National Park, specifically within the Biscuit Basin region. The falls are part of the Little Firehole River and can be reached via a well-maintained trail that begins at the Biscuit Basin Trailhead.

What are the GPS Coordinates?

The Biscuit Basin Trailhead, which serves as the starting point for the hike to Mystic Falls, has the following GPS coordinates:

  • Latitude: 44.48498
  • Longitude: -110.85256

How Can Visitors Access the Trailhead?

There are two primary ways to access the Mystic Falls trailhead:

  1. Biscuit Basin Parking Area:
  2. Park in the designated lot
  3. Walk 0.3 miles to the far side of the Biscuit Basin boardwalk

  4. Locate the trailhead at the end of the boardwalk

  5. Alternative Parking:

  6. Use pullouts 0.25 miles south of Biscuit Basin
  7. Walk 0.5 miles north along the Upper Geyser Basin–Biscuit Basin Trail
  8. Connect to the Mystic Falls trailhead

What is the Trail Difficulty and Distance?

mystic falls yellowstone national park park wyoming united states
Image ‘File:Yellowstone Castle Geysir Edit.jpg’ by user: Flicka, Edited (Sharpening – Downsampled) by Arad Mojtahedi., licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Mystic Falls Trail offers options for hikers of different skill levels:

  1. Out-and-Back Option:
  2. Difficulty: Easy to moderate (3.05 rating)
  3. Distance: 2.4 miles roundtrip

  4. Elevation Gain: Approximately 250 feet

  5. Loop Option (including Upper Geyser Basin overlook):

  6. Difficulty: Slightly more challenging
  7. Distance: 3.4 miles roundtrip
  8. Elevation Gain: Roughly 750 feet

How Long Does the Hike Take?

The estimated hiking time for a round trip to Mystic Falls is about 2-3 hours, depending on which option you choose and your hiking pace.

What Gear Should Hikers Bring?

For a safe and enjoyable hike to Mystic Falls, consider packing the following essential items:

  • Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
  • Water and snacks
  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • Bear spray (recommended for all Yellowstone hikes)
  • Layered clothing for varying weather conditions
  • Camera and extra batteries
  • Map and compass or GPS device

When is the Best Time for Photography?

To capture the best images of Mystic Falls and its surroundings, consider the following:

  1. Optimal Lighting Times:
  2. Early morning: Soft, golden light

  3. Late afternoon: Warm, directional light

  4. Avoid Midday: Harsh shadows and high contrast

  5. Composition Elements:

  6. Use the canyon and forest as foreground elements
  7. Capture the falls from various angles (base, switchbacks, overlook)
  8. Include thermal features like Sapphire Pool in wider shots

What Amenities are Available Near Mystic Falls?

Visitors to Mystic Falls can take advantage of the following amenities:

  1. Parking:
  2. Biscuit Basin parking area (can be crowded during peak season)

  3. No specific parking fees, but a valid Yellowstone National Park pass is required

  4. Restrooms:

  5. Available at the Biscuit Basin Trailhead

  6. Picnic Areas:

  7. Located near Old Faithful, a few miles from the trailhead

Are There Any Seasonal Considerations?

When planning your visit to Mystic Falls, keep in mind:

  1. Trail Conditions:
  2. Check current conditions before hiking

  3. The trail can be narrow and steep in some areas

  4. Closures:

  5. Biscuit Basin was closed in 2024 due to a hydrothermal explosion

  6. Always verify accessibility before your trip

  7. Wildlife Awareness:

  8. Be cautious of wildlife encounters, especially bears
  9. Carry bear spray and know how to use it

How Does Mystic Falls Compare to Other Yellowstone Attractions?

Mystic Falls offers a unique experience compared to other Yellowstone attractions:

Feature Mystic Falls Old Faithful Grand Prismatic Spring
Type Waterfall Geyser Hot Spring
Crowd Level Moderate Very High High
Hiking Required Yes (2.4-3.4 miles) No Optional
Viewing Time 2-3 hours 1-2 hours 30 min – 1 hour
Photography Natural scenery Predictable eruptions Colorful thermal features

What Makes Mystic Falls a Must-Visit Destination?

Mystic Falls stands out as a must-visit destination in Yellowstone National Park for several reasons:

  1. Natural Beauty:
  2. 70-foot cascading waterfall

  3. Scenic canyon and forest views

  4. Diverse Experience:

  5. Combines hiking, thermal features, and waterfall viewing

  6. Less Crowded:

  7. Offers a more serene experience compared to popular geyser basins

  8. Photography Opportunities:

  9. Varied landscapes and lighting conditions for stunning shots

  10. Accessibility:

  11. Moderate trail suitable for most hikers
  12. Close proximity to other Yellowstone attractions

By visiting Mystic Falls, travelers can experience a perfect blend of Yellowstone’s famous thermal features and its lesser-known natural wonders, all within a manageable hike that showcases the park’s diverse beauty.

References:
1. Teton Hiking Trails – Mystic Falls
2. U.S. National Park Service – Mystic Falls Trail
3. Yellowstone Park – Mystic Falls Hike

Leave a Comment