Tower Fall – Yellowstone’s Classic Waterfall

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Steep waterfalls cascading through a dense forest, viewed from a distance. — Admire the majestic waterfalls tumbling through lush forested slopes from afar.

Hidden among towering volcanic rock spires in Yellowstone’s northern region, Tower Fall is one of the park’s most picturesque waterfalls. Plunging 132 feet into the Yellowstone River, the fall is framed by striking basalt pinnacles that give the area its name. Easy to access and unforgettable in its beauty, Tower Fall has been a favorite subject for painters, photographers, and visitors since Yellowstone was first explored.

What Makes Tower Fall Unique?

Tower Fall stands out not only for its dramatic drop but also for its setting. The waterfall is surrounded by eroded volcanic spires—natural rock towers carved by thousands of years of wind, water, and ice. The combination of rushing water and jagged stone formations creates one of Yellowstone’s most iconic views.

Early explorers like Thomas Moran and William Henry Jackson captured Tower Fall in art and photography, helping inspire Congress to create Yellowstone as the world’s first national park in 1872.

Four people standing in a forest clearing near a wooden fence with a river flowing nearby. — Visitors explore a peaceful forest clearing, framed by a wooden fence and a gently flowing river.

Visiting Tower Fall

Tower Fall Overlook: A short, paved walk (less than 0.1 miles) from the parking lot leads to a viewpoint directly across from the waterfall.
Hike to the Base: A steep trail once led to the bottom of the falls, but it has been closed for safety and erosion concerns. You can still hike part of it for views of the Yellowstone River.
Photography: Morning light illuminates the spires, while late afternoon highlights the waterfall’s flow.

Things to Do Nearby

Tower Junction: A central crossroads leading to Lamar Valley, Canyon, and Mammoth Hot Springs.
Lamar Valley: Just east, offering some of Yellowstone’s best wildlife viewing.
Roosevelt Lodge: A historic lodge nearby with cabins, horseback rides, and chuckwagon dinners.
Calcite Springs Overlook: Scenic views of the Yellowstone River canyon just a short drive away.

Tower Fall cascading from a cliff, viewed from a distance in Yellowstone National Park. — Admire the dramatic Tower Fall from afar, where water plunges gracefully over the cliff.

Tips for Visiting Tower Fall

Arrive Early: Parking is limited, especially in summer.
Use Caution: Stay on designated trails—erosion has made some areas unstable.
Bring Binoculars: Birds of prey often nest in the cliffs around the falls.
Combine Stops: Tower Fall pairs well with a drive through Lamar Valley or a visit to Roosevelt Lodge.

Quick Facts

Height: 132 feet
Location: Near Tower Junction, on the road between Canyon Village and Roosevelt Lodge
Formation: Basalt rock spires created by volcanic activity and erosion
Accessibility: Short paved walk to viewpoint; base trail closed beyond river access

Tower Fall waterfall at ground level with surrounding forest and a rainbow arching over the scene. — Experience Tower Fall up close, where mist from the cascading water creates a vibrant rainbow amidst the forest.

Why Tower Fall Belongs on Your Itinerary

Tower Fall is a Yellowstone classic—beautiful, historic, and easy to visit. Its blend of natural drama and accessibility makes it a perfect stop, whether you’re on a quick park tour or a longer adventure. For many early visitors, this was one of the first glimpses of Yellowstone’s raw power and beauty, and it continues to inspire awe today.

Tower Fall is a reminder of why Yellowstone was preserved in the first place. Visit the Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Mega Hub