The hike to Little Gibbon Falls is an easy 1.6 mile round-trip hike up the Wolf Lake Trail in Yellowstone National Park. The hike can either be done on its own, or you could throw in a trip to Ice Lake for just two more miles round trip.
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Little Gibbon Falls Trail Description
From the Wolf Lake Trailhead, cross the road and head east a short distance to find the signed trail. Head into the peaceful woods where you’ll soon begin paralleling the Gibbon River. It winds through a large meadow while the trail stays just inside of the forest, allowing for glimpses of the serene landscape through the trees.
You’ll soon reach a large meadow where the trail cuts across. Continue across the meadow where you’ll then begin an easy ascent up a hill. As you near the crest of the hill, you’ll begin to hear the roar of Little Gibbon Falls. Rounding a bend, the beautiful waterfall comes into view. Found far below the cliff you’re standing on, the beautiful addition to the Gibbon River cascades over a large slab of rock, much like its larger counterpart on the Grand Loop Road.
The area features plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view, but common sense and caution should be used along the ledge. When you’re ready, head out the same way you came in. If you’d prefer to add on a couple more miles, consider doing the Little Gibbon Falls to Ice Lake Loop.
Getting There
From Canyon Village, head west on Norris Canyon Road for 7.75 miles. Look for the Wolf Lake Trailhead on your left and park there.