Mystic Falls

Mystic Falls is a waterfall in Yellowstone National Park where water drops about 70 feet (21 meters) over several tiers of rock. The creek feeding this cascade originates from the Madison Plateau and flows through layered stone formations on its way down.

In the 1930s, the waterfall site was a popular gathering spot where visitors swam in warm waters fed by nearby thermal springs. This bathing opportunity made the location a special draw for park visitors during that era.

The waterfall trail connects to the larger network of Yellowstone paths, allowing visitors to observe both water features and geothermal formations.

The trail starts at the Biscuit Basin parking lot and offers two route options: a shorter direct path or a longer loop that includes views of the basin. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven in places.

Steam rises near the top of the falls where geothermal springs mix with the river water, creating one of the largest thermal waterfall systems found anywhere. This rare combination of cascading water and natural heat makes the site truly one of a kind.