Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.9 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
90 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Circuit is a gorgeous route in Yellowstone National Park. This trail can be done as a long day hike or a leisurely backpacking trip. This route is a great way to explore the flora and fauna of the Wyoming wilderness with loved ones.

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Route Description for Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Loop

The Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls circuit is a gorgeous route in the eastern section of Yellowstone National Park. This hike is not overly challenging, but it is reasonably long. If you plan to hike this whole route in one day, be sure to begin your hike early in the morning to avoid finishing in the dark.

Featuring Fairy Falls, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and a variety of geothermal features, the Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Circuit are incredible. With 10 miles of varying terrain and breathtaking views, this trail is a great way to spend quality time exploring the beauty of Yellowstone National Park.

Beginning at the Fountain Flats Drive Trailhead, follow the path south for 0.5 km to a divide. This divide marks the beginning and end of the Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Circuit. Take the path on your right to hike the circuit counterclockwise. 9.7 km in, you will pass by Fairy Falls: a stunning 61 m tall waterfall that is one of Yellowstone’s most impressive water features. From Fairy Falls, continue east along the Fairy Falls trail for 2.4 km to a divide. Here, we recommend hiking a quick out-and-back on the trail to your right to check out the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook before hiking north along the Fountain Flat Drive Trail back to the Trailhead where you began.

Getting to the Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Loop Trailhead

This hike begins at the Fountain Flats Drive/Freight Road Trailhead at the south end of Fountain Flat Drive off of Grand Loop Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Sentinel Meadows East, Imperial Meadows, Fairy Meadows, Goose Lake

  • When to do

    May to October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Loop Elevation Graph

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Sentinel Meadows and Fairy Falls Loop Reviews

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