Popo Agie Falls

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

A gorgeous hike to spectacular waterfalls. There are two waterfalls of interest on this trail. The first is a waterslide with a swimming hole, located on the way to the main falls. The swimming hole is generally safe to enjoy mid-July through the end of the summer, but is very dangerous during peak snowmelt (June - early July). The second point of interest is the main Popo Agie Falls, located farther down the trail. The first half of the trail is far less strenuous than the second half.

There are some tree roots and loose rocks along the trail. Watch your footing. Minimal phone signal along the trail. Be careful during peak snowmelt season (June - early July); the river is very fast moving and sometimes flooded.

The first ¾ mile of the trail is easy, the second ¾ is moderate (rocky trail/elevation gain). Wear sturdy shoes, take water, use sunscreen. In the summer afternoon thundershowers are common, so a rain jacket and hat might be a good idea.

Horse and bikes are allowed on the trail so watch for other users.

Nestled in the Shoshone National Forest is a trail which you'll never forget. The trail doesn't have a bad view and will provide some of the most scenic vistas you have ever seen. The trail isn't well known (one of the area's best-kept secrets, in fact), so you won't see too many people on it. The trail offers something for everyone whether you're a runner, horseback rider, biker, hiker or just want to go on a casual nature walk...this trail is for you!

The hike to the falls begins at Bruce's Parking area on the Shoshone National Forest (3 miles up the road from the Sinks Canyon State Park Visitor Center). Park in the large lot on the left and take the footbridge across the Popo Agie River (pronounced puh-POE-zha) to the trailhead kiosk. At the kiosk, you'll go left and follow a well-maintained dirt path.

The first part of the path is gorgeous in its own way, there are numerous boulders and rocks in the field to your right. As you make your way down the trail, it begins to get more lush. The trail parallels the Popo Agie River, so you'll never be without the gorgeous view of the water and sound of the falls. As you continue on you'll occasionally get hit with a mist from the rapids (which is very refreshing!). Your journey will take you in some covered areas from trees, but it is mostly open (wear sunscreen in the summer!).

The trail will take you through a 8% grade and at times you'll feel the burn in your legs. You'll encounter a trail junction: the right path takes you to the Middle Fork Trail and the Stock Connector, the left path takes you to the Popo Agie Falls. The trail becomes more technical at this point, with occasional roots sticking out, and some loose rocks. If you want to visit the waterslide and swimming hole, there is a lower trail that branches off early after the junction. The higher path continues to the main Popo Agie Falls. You'll wind your way through a small switchback and will cross another footbridge. As you cross the bridge, you'll come upon an open area on your left. This view overlooks the Sinks Canyon and is absolutely stunning! Continuing along the trail, you'll go up a slight hill and will hear the roar of the Popo Agie Falls. As you summit this hill, you'll be awe-stricken by the beauty that lies ahead. I don't want to spoil it, but you'll truly be at a loss of words at the beautiful sight.

You'll take the same trail back, but I can assure you it will feel like an entirely different trail. The vistas on your return trip are entirely different than your hike to the falls.

For an even more beautiful experience...take this trail at sunset or sunrise. The views are truly breathtaking.

Recommendations:
- If you're a runner, hike the trail first. Take the time to appreciate the beauty this trail offers.
- Bring a camera/smartphone to take pictures. Even if you have no photography experience/expertise, you are guaranteed a gorgeous photo, no matter what you are pointing at.
- If you have a fear of heights, you may not want to take this trail. Portions of it are elevated which no railing/fall protection
- If you do have a fear of heights, the first half of the trail is low and you'll still be able to enjoy the scenic/panoramic vistas
- Enjoy!