West Tensleep Falls

Soak in the Scenery, Wander the Woods, and Discover West Tensleep Falls

Tucked deep in the Bighorn Mountains of northern Wyoming lies a hidden gem that feels worlds away from the noise of everyday life West Tensleep Falls. This cascading waterfall is a reward at the end of a peaceful forest trail, where alpine beauty, cool mountain air, and the soothing sounds of rushing water offer a rejuvenating escape into nature.

Whether you’re out for a day hike or setting up camp nearby, West Tensleep Falls is one of those places that invites you to linger, listen, and breathe it all in.

A Gentle Hike to a Soothing Cascade

Reaching West Tensleep Falls is part of the adventure. The falls are accessed via a short trail that begins near the West Tensleep Lake Campground, a serene spot already worth the drive. The hike to the falls is just under a mile and offers a gentle walk through pine forest and wildflower meadows, with occasional glimpses of craggy peaks rising in the distance. It is a fairly easy trail and can be hiked by people of most ability levels.

As you near the falls, the air cools and the sound of water grows stronger. Rounding the final bend, you’re greeted by a tall, multi-tiered waterfall cascading down smooth granite. It’s not thunderous it’s calming, like a lullaby set to the rhythm of the mountains. Still it is a sight to behold and if it’s a hot day and you’re feeling bold you can take a dip below the falls, so bring your swimsuit if you’d like to cool off.

Nature’s Calm in the Cloud Peak Wilderness

Though the falls themselves are just outside the Cloud Peak Wilderness, the area captures the same spirit rugged, pristine, and remarkably peaceful. Along the way, you’ll find bird songs echoing through the trees, chipmunks darting across the trail, and if you’re lucky, the occasional moose or deer grazing in the early morning light.

In summer, the nearby West Tensleep Lake is a destination in its own right. Crystal clear and nestled between forested slopes, it’s ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply dipping your toes in on a hot day. It’s also a great spot to throw your fishing line in and relax during the morning or evening when the fish are most active.

Camp, Picnic, and Stay Awhile

The West Tensleep Campground is a popular but well-spaced site, offering picnic tables, fire rings, and a peaceful basecamp for your visit. Whether you’re tent camping under the stars or spending the day with a picnic near the lake, it’s an ideal place to unplug and reconnect with nature and with yourself.

For those not camping overnight, pack a picnic and stay a while. The area around the falls has quiet nooks perfect for a book, a snack, or just a moment of stillness. If you’re staying in one of the many campgrounds in the area or at either of the lodges you would be missing out not taking the opportunity to visit the falls.

Gateway to High Mountain Adventure

West Tensleep Falls is a perfect stop for both casual visitors and serious adventurers. The nearby Tensleep Trailhead offers access to some of the most stunning backpacking in Wyoming, including the high alpine lakes and ridges of the Cloud Peak Wilderness. For those heading deeper into the backcountry, the falls mark the gentle beginning of more rugged exploration.

And if you’re road-tripping through the Bighorns, this detour off Highway 16 is well worth the extra miles especially in the summer months when the wildflowers bloom and the breeze carries the scent of pine. Enjoy the absence of a cellphone signal and immerse yourself in the rhythms of nature.

Find Your Quiet at West Tensleep Falls

Whether you’re hiking in, camping nearby, or just stopping to stretch your legs, West Tensleep Falls offers a peaceful, scenic experience in the heart of Wyoming’s mountain country. While there is a steady flow of visitors through the summer it’s not flashy or crowded and that’s what makes it special.

Come for the waterfall, stay for the silence. Let the sound of the falls carry your stress away and remind you of the quiet magic still waiting to be found in the serenity of nature.