About
Length (round trip)5.4 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain200 ft up
Typical time4 hr
TrailheadFountain Flat Drive
SurfaceSnow-covered road and trail
Best seasonJune to September. Most park roads close to cars from early November to late April, and higher trails hold snow into July.
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityThis skier-tracked easy to more-difficult trail provides level terrain with some hills and bends in the trail near the falls. The trail elevation gain/loss is 160 feet. Service dogs allowed.
What you'll see 💧 Waterfall🌄 Big views❄️ Winter use

The Fairy Falls Ski Trail is a 10 mile (16 km) (with ski drop) skier-tracked, round-trip, easiest to more dificult ski that provides icy views of one of Yellowstone's most popular waterfalls. Ski 1.3 miles (2.1 km) on the Fountain Flats Drive, then turn left on the Fairy Falls Trail. Most of the Fairy Falls Trail is level, but there are hills and bends in the trail near the falls. Return via the same route, then take the Powerline Trail or the snow vehicle road to Old Faithful. To reach the more difficult Powerline Trail, ski about 0.25 miles (0.4 km) south (right) along the snow vehicle road to the Mallard Creek trailhead on the left. Follow the Mallard Creek Trail and turn right at the first junction onto the Powerline Trail, which has rolling hills. The Powerline Trail leads to the Upper Geyser Basin Trail and Morning Glory Pool. Where the trail crosses thermal areas, you may need to remove your skis due to lack of snow. Notes: Bison and elk frequent this trail. Federal regulations require you to stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from bison and all other wild animals. Stay on boardwalks and designated ski trails. The ground is unstable in hydrothermal areas. Check out the ski trail details and accessibility information at the bottom of this page.

Tips
The falls freeze into a wall of ice and the whole basin steams. Winter access to this part of the park is by snowcoach or skis only.
Location

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