Little Gibbon Falls

The hike to Little Gibbon Falls is a nice family friendly hike that is short and pretty easy. The area is not super popular but also not as secret as others would lead you to believe since it is listed in the park's hiking guide. It's a pretty little waterfall but don't go expecting anything huge like the more popular Gibbon Falls. This is more a hike to escape the crowds and get an easy view of the amazing backcountry in this park. This is actually a portion of the Wolf Lake Trail. You could also easily visit Ice Lake during this hike. The trail head is about 3.5 miles from Norris Junction heading toward Canyon. There is no parking lot. Just a small turnout with a sign for Wolf Lake. Walk across the road from the turnout and you will see an orange marker to find the beginning of the trail in the trees.The trail stays in the trees for a few minutes before opening up into Virginia Meadows. This is a pretty area with the peaceful Gibbon River slowly meandering through the valley. We visited in late May and there was a lot of water. The meadows hold water well into summer and there is a good chance you will get your feet wet so please plan accordingly. The water is not deep. The meadow crossing is easy. Make your way to the hill on the left where the trail will re enter the trees and climb a short way. At the top of the hill it's only a short trek to a view of the falls. I would guess the fall is about 20-25 feet. The water does severely die down later in the year but is very nice and powerful in the Spring. If you walk past the first viewpoint, the trail will give a couple other perspectives and eventually take you right to the brink. We explored for a few minutes and had a nice time. You can either return the way you came, visit nearby Ice Lake, or go a few miles further to Wolf Lake where there is a nice backcountry campsite. This is a good evening hike that is easy for most people and gives you some nice views. It is a peaceful area that you're unlikely to see many people in.