Wraith Falls

Wraith Falls is a graceful 100-foot cascade tucked into a forested canyon along Lupine Creek, reached by a short and easy trail in Yellowstone's northern interior. The waterfall fans out over a wide basalt face, giving it a veil-like quality that photographs beautifully when water levels are high in late spring and early summer. The trail ends at a viewing platform that puts you directly in front of the falls, so a wide-angle lens in the 16-35mm range works well for capturing the full drop along with the surrounding spruce and fir. Overcast days are ideal here since the forest canopy and canyon walls create harsh contrasts in direct sun; flat light brings out the texture of the water and the mossy rocks. Morning tends to be quieter with fewer visitors, and the soft diffused light filtering through the trees adds depth to your shots. (Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, United States)