The Ultimate Guide to Traveling the Virginia Cascade Drive in Wyoming
Virginia Cascade Drive is a highly scenic route in the heart of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. The road provides access to the north side of the Virginia Cascades, a 60 ft (18 m) waterfall on the Gibbon River.
Why is it Called Virginia Cascades?
It was named in 1886 after Virginia Gibson, the wife of Charles Gibson, the head of the Yellowstone Park Association concessions.
How Long is the Virginia Cascade Drive?
Located in Park County, the road is fully paved but quite narrow. There are sheer drops along most of the route, with enough hairpin turns to make even seasoned drivers dizzy. It’s a one-way, 4 km (2.5 miles) road that branches off the main Norris Canyon Road. In many places, the road is bordered by a drop of hundreds of feet with no guardrails. The road is narrow but lightly trafficked, with steep drop-offs on the passenger side.
Is the Virginia Cascade Drive Open?
Winding along a shaded mountain creek, the road is closed in winter. RVs, buses, and trailers are not allowed on this road. There is a $3.00 per vehicle parking fee. The parking area is open from sunrise to sunset only—no overnight parking.
How Long Does it Take to Drive the Virginia Cascade Drive?
Situated in the northwestern part of Wyoming, near the Montana border, you should plan for 10-15 minutes to complete the drive without any stops. The route follows the old roadway between Norris and Canyon, offering great views of one of the lesser-seen waterfalls. There are areas where you can pull over and take photos of the waterfall.