We'll say it time and time again - there's truly no place on earth like the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. If you think that Yellowstone is all tourists and crowded trails, you just have to get a little more creative in your exploring! Take Dunanda Falls Hot Springs, for example. This remote Yellowstone National Park backcountry hot spring is one place where you can truly get away from it all in a magical setting.

To discover more incredible off-the-beaten-path destinations across America, Destination Detour has you covered.

What Makes Dunanda Falls Special?

Dunanda Falls is one of many Yellowstone backcountry cascades. Shown here is Boundary Creek, which tumbles 150 feet and is a stunning waterfall that belongs on every hiker's bucket list. However, you must keep in mind it's a long trek to get here — nearly 17 miles round trip. But it's worth it, and you'll see why!

How To Get To Dunanda Falls

Hiking

Heading into Yellowstone's backcountry can be a daunting experience, but if you truly want to get to know the greater ecosystem, there's no better way to do it. For a truly rewarding adventure, hike from the Lone Star Geyser Basin or Bechler Ranger Station to Dunanda Falls Hot Springs.

The most common route to Dunanda Falls in Yellowstone departs from the Bechler Ranger Station and takes you 17 miles out and back through some of the most remote wilderness in Wyoming. There is minimal elevation gain along the trail, and you'll mostly be hiking through forests and meadows.

This area does often close for bear management, so be aware, and be sure to secure permits before heading out.

Hire a Backcountry Hiking Guide

If you're not one for backcountry hiking, there are outfitters offering pack trips to Dunanda Falls Hot Springs. This is the safest way to get back to this beautiful hot spring with seasoned hikers.

Hike to the Falls With a Llama

Wildland Trekking offers llama hikes through this beautiful backcountry! The llamas will carry most of your gear and you'll end up enjoying a relaxing trip through the wilderness along with experienced guides.

To learn more about the multi-day hot spring waterfall trip, visit the Wildland Trekking website.

You'll get to experience the beauty of the backcountry without having to strike out on your own! This is the perfect trip for anyone who is hesitant to head into the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem alone, or for inexperienced backcountry campers.

Where To Stay Around Dunanda Falls

Camping

If you plan on camping anywhere near Dunanda Falls in Yellowstone, you'll have to settle for backcountry camping. Throughout this national park are a total of 293 backcountry campsites with a maximum stay of 1-3 nights. Each campsite has a food storage box or pole as a deterrent to bears. Peak camping season is between May 15 and Oct. 31 while the off-season is Nov. 1 through May 14. Take a look at the backcountry campsite map and visit Recreation.gov to obtain a backcountry permit.

Lodges In Yellowstone National Park

While camping is popular within Yellowstone, there are several lodges within its borders you can book. Take, for example, Old Faithful Inn, perhaps the closest lodge to Dunanda Falls. This lodge is a National Historic Landmark that's considered one of the largest log cabins in the wold and boasts having over 327 rooms. On site are a restaurant, a lounge, and several accessible public areas.

Another lodging option within the park is Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins. This hotel with cabins is open seasonally between mid-May and early October. Cabins have showers, heat, and two double beds. They are also pet-friendly. On site you'll find dining options, Lake Yellowstone views, and access to lake activities through the hotel.

Places to stay near Yellowstone National Park

While camping and lodging are always options, you may want to stay on the outskirts of Yellowstone National Park instead. One incredible vacation rental is the Luxury Mountain Modern near Yellowstone. This stunning cabin in Cody boasts 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a stone fireplace, 18-foot ceilings, and 5 acres giving you all the peace and quiet your heart could desire.

Head a bit further south and you can stay in Dubois at the Fisherman's Cabin on the Anderson Ranch. Surrounded by 40 acres set on the Wind River, this remote retreat is studio-style with two beds and one bathroom and river views from its porch. Sounds heavenly to me!

Things To Do In Dunanda Falls

Relax in the Waterfall's Pool

When you finally arrive at the falls via backcountry hiking, you'll be in awe of what awaits! At the base of Dunanda Falls, naturally heated hot spring pools invite you in for a relaxing soak. The pools' temperatures average around 110 degrees Fahrenheit, which is perfect for a steamy soak.

While the trek to get here takes you through some of the most pristine wilderness in Wyoming, the highlight of the journey will undoubtedly be the time spent soaking at Dunanda Falls.

Can't you just picture yourself here? The mist of the falls splashing down into the naturally heated water makes for a refreshing soak, and when the light is right, you'll find yourself looking at a beautiful rainbow.

If you're looking for a truly memorable adventure in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem where you'll avoid the crowds and soak in a natural hot spring, it's hard to top a visit to this beautiful waterfall.

Need To Know Information About Dunanda Falls

It's quite a trek to get back here, so you'll want to go with a group and review basic backcountry safety before venturing out into the wilderness.

You can check the status of backcountry conditions online. As always, carry bear mace, make noise, and hang or store food and other fragrant items properly.

First time visiting Yellowstone National Park? How exciting! Check out this video for common questions and answers related to visiting our U.S. National Parks:

Be sure to visit AllTrails for more information on Dunanda Falls Hot Springs in Yellowstone. For more hiking options in Yellowstone National Park, this scenic trail offers views of both rivers and waterfalls.

Backcountry information can be found here, and bear safety tips for the park are posted here.