Many of Wyoming’s most famous waterfalls are hard to get to. They involve long hikes, lots of stairs, or even worse, park entrance fees! You won’t have to sit in bison jams or shuffle down a hundred steps to see one of the state’s prettiest cascades, though, and chances are, you won’t even have to fight through a crowd! Visit Shell Falls in Bighorn National Forest for a real treat.
The Shell Falls Interpretive Site is a rest area located between the town of Shell and the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, along Route 14.
AllTrails / Scott Lemke
You’ll find a lot of information about the area’s strange geology as you read the information and placards scattered around the paved site, which is just a short walk from a large parking area.
Wikipedia / Public Domain
To see the falls themselves, head down a short flight of stairs to the viewing platform. The size of the canyon here is sure to drop your jaw!
Tripadvisor / a.h.
Shell Falls is an enormous cascade, tumbling 120 feet into a rocky ravine below.
Tripadvisor / a.h.
Even in the winter, these falls are easy to see - as long as Route 14 is clear and safe to drive!
AllTrails / Leah Williams
Spend some time wandering through the Bighorns when you think you’ve seen it all – and you’re sure to discover hidden gems that delight even the most jaded Wyoming explorer. Shell Falls is one of the most underrated places in the state, and it makes for a worthy detour or destination, no matter where you’re coming from.
AllTrails / Scott Lemke
Wikipedia / Public Domain
Tripadvisor / a.h.
AllTrails / Leah Williams
For a list of other beautiful and easy to find waterfalls in Wyoming, read 9 Unbelievable Wyoming Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight — No Hiking Required.
What’s your favorite cascade in the Cowboy State? Do you prefer to earn your views with a grueling hike, or are roadside stops your go-to? We’d love to hear in the comments below!
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Address: Shell Falls, Wyoming 82441, USA
