Mystic Falls and Overlook

Mystic Falls is a quick and easy hike behind Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone National Park that presents a stunning waterfall among thermal features. What many don’t realize however, is that you can make a great lollipop loop hike by heading up to the Fairy Creek Trail and including a stunning view from an overlook along that trail. The moderate hike clocks in at 3.8 miles, making it a great way to get off the beaten path and see some great scenery.

NOTE: Biscuit Basin is currently closed indefinitely. This is due to unpredictable hydrothermal explosions that have been going off since 2024. While the trail can be accessed from the backside of Biscuit Basin, this route is currently closed. The route below follows a nearby alternative.

Mystic Falls and Overlook Trail Description

Due to the ongoing Biscuit Basin closure, this route begins at the Daisy Trailhead. This is found immediately south of Biscuit Basin. Look for the trail to begin on the opposite side as the Daisy Geyser Trailhead (west side).

As you begin up the trail, you’ll quick cross the Little Firehole River as you make your way through a clearing. Off to the right, steam from thermal features at Biscuit Basin can be seen. Shortly after, you’ll head back into the forest. After a bit of meandering, you’ll connect with the back of Biscuit Basin at 0.4 miles in. The trail will bend westward here as you head deeper into the forest.

Continuing the easy journey through the woods, you’ll pass through a quick clearing below an igneous rock outcropping. Shortly after, back in the forest, you’ll reach another junction at 0.75 miles in. This is the beginning of the loop. There’s no right or wrong way to go, so this write-up reflects heading clockwise, heading left.

After the junction, you’ll drop down through the forest to reach another junction with the Summit Lake Trail. Stay right to begin going upstream along the Little Firehole River. Not long after, the trail will open up into a stunning view descending from the shallow canyon. Just ahead is Mystic Falls.

Mystic Falls creates a stunning landscape as the Little Firehole River cascades down 70 feet of cliffs. Multiple vantage points allow for a better view of the falls as thermal features nearby create steam on chillier days. It’s a stunning place for a relaxing break as the white noise of crashing water fills the landscape. The official overlook is just up the trail a little higher where a sign greets hikers to the dramatic vantage point. For many people, this makes a perfect destination. If that’s the case, feel free to head back out the same way you came in. For those wanting to include the overlook into their hike, continue up the trail as it ascends steeply.

The climb continues upward over switchbacks, and as it begins to level out, the rush of the water begins to fade, veering away from the creek and gently ascending into the woods. The deceptively high hill forces a few more steep spots to continue the ascent. But eventually, you reach another junction at just shy of 2 miles in. Head right to head to the overlook.

From the junction, you’ll descend through the forest. Along the way, an occasional view of the Upper Geyser Basin can be seen through the trees. The easy hiking weaves through the forest, ultimately dropping down to the overlook, marked by a wooden fence. Below are absolutely gorgeous views of Biscuit Basin and the Upper Geyser Basin. It’s a very welcoming place to stop and relax from the previous climb and to appreciate the view. When ready, continue down the trail.

There are a few steep parts along the descent. The rocky ridge however, provides great views down until you eventually wind down into the forest once again. You’ll continue steadily dropping through the forest until you rejoin the original junction at 3.1 miles in. This closes out the loop. From this point, you can continue back to the trailhead the same way you came in.

Getting There

From the Old Faithful area, head north on the Grand Loop Road for 1.6 miles. Look for the trailhead along a small parking area on your left.