Colonnade Falls

Welcome to the wild heart of Wyoming! For those who truly want to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of nature, the backcountry of Yellowstone National Park offers an unparalleled experience. Colonnade Falls, more than just a place, is a destination for the adventurous spirit. It is not a traditional drive-up campground with developed sites and amenities, but rather a significant and spectacular landmark along a renowned backcountry hiking route. The name “Colonnade Falls” refers to a stunning set of two waterfalls on the Bechler River. Camping in this area means embracing a truly primitive and rewarding experience, where the journey itself is as significant as the destination. This guide is designed to help you understand what makes Colonnade Falls and its surrounding backcountry area a premier choice for your next outdoor adventure in Wyoming.

The region, often called the "Cascade Corner" of Yellowstone, is famous for its abundant waterfalls, lush meadows, and pristine wilderness. Unlike the highly trafficked main roads and geyser basins of the park, the Bechler River area offers solitude and a profound connection with nature. It is here, nestled deep within this remote landscape, that you will find the magnificent two-tiered Colonnade Falls. The upper falls drop about 35 feet, while the lower cascades plunge approximately 67 feet. The name, given by an 1885 geological survey team, was inspired by the falls’ resemblance to a row of columns at regular intervals. Visiting this area requires a commitment to backpacking and self-sufficiency, but the rewards—from incredible scenery to a deep sense of accomplishment—are well worth the effort.

A trip to this area is about leaving the paved world behind. The experience is about waking up to the sound of rushing water, watching wildlife in their natural habitat, and navigating a landscape that has changed little over time. It is a place for those who prefer a sleeping bag under the stars to a hotel room, and the quiet rustle of the forest to the bustle of a crowd.

This article will provide you with factual, public information to help you plan your journey to this extraordinary part of Wyoming. From the necessary permits to the unique features of the area, we will cover the essential details to ensure your adventure is both safe and unforgettable. Prepare to lace up your boots and explore one of Yellowstone’s most secluded and beautiful secrets.

Colonnade Falls is located within the vast expanse of Yellowstone National Park, specifically in its southwestern quadrant known as the Bechler River backcountry. The address provided, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA, is a general location for the park itself. It is crucial to understand that Colonnade Falls is not accessible by car. There are no roads leading directly to it, and a significant backpacking journey is required to reach the area.

The most common access point for the Bechler River Trail, which leads to the falls, is from the Cave Falls Road, accessible from Ashton, Idaho. The trailhead is situated near the ranger station and a corral. While this is the most direct route for hikers, some visitors may choose to access the area from other trails within the park, such as from trailheads near Old Faithful, though this would involve a much longer trip. Regardless of the entry point, all visitors must be prepared for a multi-day backpacking excursion, as reaching the falls typically requires at least a full day's hike and an overnight stay in the backcountry.

The accessibility of this area is highly dependent on the season. The Bechler River is notorious for its numerous fords, where hikers must wade through the river. During the spring melt-off, the water levels can be dangerously high, making the trail impassable. Therefore, the best time to undertake this hike is typically in late summer and early fall when water levels are lower and biting insects like mosquitoes and flies are less of an issue. The remoteness and challenging nature of the trail mean that a high level of physical fitness and preparedness is required. The trail itself is generally a gradual descent through forests and meadows, but proper navigation and awareness of the wilderness environment are essential.

As a backcountry destination, Colonnade Falls is part of a primitive camping environment. This means there are no developed services like campgrounds with picnic tables, restrooms, or running water. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient and prepared for a true wilderness experience.

• Backcountry Permits: All overnight stays in the Bechler backcountry require a permit. These permits are crucial for managing the use of the area and ensuring the wilderness remains protected. They must be obtained in advance through the National Park Service. Without a valid permit, camping is prohibited.

• Designated Campsites: Camping is only allowed in designated backcountry campsites. These are not developed sites with amenities but rather marked areas where camping is permitted. They are often located near water sources and other key landmarks. The sites near Colonnade Falls offer a unique opportunity to camp within earshot of the cascades.

• Parking: On-site parking is available at the trailheads, such as the one at Cave Falls. However, visitors should be aware that these are typically unmonitored parking areas, and it is a multi-day journey from your vehicle. It is important to secure your vehicle and not leave any valuables inside.

• Ranger Stations and Information: While there are no facilities at the falls themselves, the backcountry is patrolled by park rangers. Information and permits can be obtained at various ranger stations or visitor centers, such as the one at the Cave Falls entrance or other main visitor centers within Yellowstone. This is where you can get the latest trail conditions and bear safety information.

• Food Storage: Bear boxes may be available at some designated campsites, but hikers are required to bring bear-resistant food storage containers or bags and know how to properly hang food. The Bechler area is prime grizzly and black bear habitat, so proper food storage is not just a recommendation—it is a mandatory safety measure.

The journey to Colonnade Falls is filled with incredible natural features that make it a standout destination. The Bechler River backcountry is often referred to as a "hiker's paradise" for good reason.

• The Waterfalls: The main highlight is, of course, the waterfalls. Colonnade Falls itself is a majestic two-tiered cascade. However, the Bechler River trail is a waterfall lover's dream, with other notable falls like Iris Falls, Ouzel Falls, and the majestic Union Falls also located in the vicinity. The abundance of falling water in this area is truly unique within the park.

• Natural Thermal Features: One of the most unique and sought-after features of the Bechler area is its secluded thermal pools. Near the base of some falls and along the river, you can find small hot springs that create natural "hot tubs" where the hot water mixes with the cold river water. These are a rare treat for a weary hiker and are one of the region's most famous secrets.

• Wilderness and Solitude: Unlike the often-crowded frontcountry areas of Yellowstone, the Bechler backcountry offers a profound sense of solitude. The experience of hiking for miles without seeing another person, listening to the sounds of the wilderness, and enjoying a campfire in a remote site is a highlight that many visitors cherish.

• Wildlife Viewing: The Bechler River is a haven for wildlife. It is not uncommon to see moose, elk, and various bird species. The area is also part of a crucial ecosystem for bears, so being wildlife-aware is an important part of the experience. The remoteness increases the chance of seeing animals in their natural, undisturbed state.

• Stunning Scenery: The trail winds through beautiful pine and fir forests and crosses vast, open meadows. The views of the surrounding mountains and the Bechler River valley are spectacular. The lush, verdant landscape of this wet corner of Yellowstone is a stark and beautiful contrast to some of the park's more geologically active areas.

For information regarding backcountry permits, trail conditions, and general park inquiries, you should contact the official sources for Yellowstone National Park. There is no direct phone number or contact for a "Colonnade Falls Campground" as it is a primitive backcountry location.

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA

For the most current and accurate information, visitors are advised to check the official National Park Service website for Yellowstone or call the park's main information lines. The park's main phone number can be a starting point for general questions about permits, regulations, and trail conditions. However, the most effective way to secure a permit and get detailed backcountry information is to use the official online reservation system or speak with a ranger in person at a visitor center.

Choosing Colonnade Falls and the Bechler River backcountry for your camping trip is a choice for an authentic and deeply rewarding wilderness experience. It is not for everyone, but for those who are prepared, it offers a kind of adventure that is increasingly rare to find. What makes this area truly worth choosing is its unique combination of natural features and the seclusion they provide.

This is the perfect destination for experienced backpackers or those looking to challenge themselves with a multi-day trip. The effort required to reach the falls means that the rewards are truly earned. You will not be sharing the stunning views with a crowd of tourists. The chance to soak in a natural hot spring after a long day of hiking is an experience that cannot be replicated in a frontcountry park.

For photographers, the area offers endless opportunities to capture incredible landscapes and unique thermal features. For nature enthusiasts, it is an opportunity to see a part of Yellowstone that few people ever get to witness. It is a place where you can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the natural one, sleeping under a sky full of stars and waking up to a world of sound and sight that is entirely your own.

In a state known for its rugged beauty, the Bechler River backcountry stands out as a jewel. Colonnade Falls serves as a highlight and a symbol of the wild, untamed spirit of Wyoming. If you are looking for more than just a place to park your RV, but a true adventure that will create lasting memories, then this journey is for you.

Colonnade Falls

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA