Hiking Crow Creek Trail to Hidden Falls in Autumn
Updated: October 3, 2025
Created: March 30, 2025
We took this hike at the beginning of Autumn in 2020 as the fall colors draped over Curt Gowdy State Park in Wyoming. A hike along the Crow Creek Trail to the usually elusive Hidden Falls made for a beautiful day on the trail.
The Tranquil Beauty of a Silent Waterfall
Hidden Falls is tucked away in Curt Gowdy State Park and is usually known for water rushing over the rocks. When we visited in the fall, though, the falls had slowed to little more than a trickle. It was a completely different experience from what we expected, but I actually enjoyed the quiet. Without the sound of rushing water, the forest around us felt much more noticeable. The trail itself was beautiful in autumn. The aspens and cottonwoods were turning shades of yellow, orange, and red, and leaves covered the trail beneath our feet. With the crisp air and the sound of the forest around us, it made for a really enjoyable hike.
The Crow Creek Trail Experience
We started on the Crow Creek Trail, which winds through a mix of terrain with a steady combination of climbs, flat stretches, and sudden descents. The landscape changed quite a bit along the way. Some sections passed through dense forest, while others opened up to wider views and more sky. It kept the hike from feeling repetitive and gave us something different to see around each turn.
Reaching Hidden Falls
The exposed creek bed revealed layers of rock and small pools of still water that reflected the sky and trees around them. We sat on the rocks near the falls to have a snack and take in the surroundings before heading back down the trail.
Preparation and Tips
If you're planning on making the trek through Gurt Gowdy State Park, make sure to follow these tips:
Check Trail Conditions: Before setting out, it's wise to check the trail conditions, especially in the fall when weather can be unpredictable.
Wear Proper Gear: Good hiking boots and layers of clothing add comfort and safety throughout the hike.
Stay Hydrated: Even though the temperature may be cooler, staying hydrated is essential.
Leave No Trace: Don't be "that person." Remember to pack out what you pack in, keeping the park pristine for others to enjoy.
A Hike to Remember
The hike to Hidden Falls along the Crow Creek trail in the fall wasn't just a physical journey, but a journey through a changing landscape, rich in color and life. It was the perfect time to experience and appreciate the profound beauty of the Wyoming outdoors.
