The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a deep, colorful gorge carved by the Yellowstone River in Yellowstone National Park. Upper and Lower Falls plunge into the canyon, with Artist Point giving a clear view of Lower Falls and the surrounding walls. Several overlooks and rim trails let you choose between a brief stop and a longer walk. Sunlight brings out the canyon’s yellow, pink and orange rock, so visiting at a quieter time of day can reward you with better views and easier parking.
A river, two waterfalls and colorful walls
The Yellowstone River carved this canyon through layers of volcanic rock. Erosion, hydrothermal activity and other natural forces shaped its walls over thousands of years. The canyon runs for about 20 miles and reaches depths of up to 1,200 feet.
Two major waterfalls interrupt the river’s course. Upper Falls drops 109 feet, while Lower Falls plunges 308 feet into the canyon. The walls show shades of yellow, orange, pink and red, with the colors changing in different light.
Viewpoints along both rims
You can see the canyon from overlooks on the North and South rims. Artist Point, on the South Rim, is a well-known place to look across the canyon toward Lower Falls. On the North Rim, viewpoints include Lookout Point and Inspiration Point. Each stop gives you a different perspective on the river, falls and steep canyon walls.
Short walks reach some overlooks, while trails along the rims let you explore more of the area. The options range from quick viewpoint visits to longer walks, but some paths are steep. One sandy trail can be slippery and takes about 30 minutes uphill.
Planning time for the canyon
The viewpoints and trails can fill a couple of hours. If you have time, visit more than one overlook rather than stopping at a single viewpoint; the falls and canyon look different from each side and at different angles.
Early morning and late afternoon are useful times to plan your visit. The light can bring out the rock colors, and parking tends to fill around midday. The area is popular, so arriving outside the busiest part of the day can also make it easier to move between viewpoints.
FAQ
How long should I spend at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone?
Allow about two to three hours for several viewpoints and a walk along the rim. A brief stop at one overlook takes less time.
Where can I see Lower Falls?
Artist Point on the South Rim gives a view of Lower Falls. Other viewpoints and trails around the canyon offer different perspectives.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon can bring better light and fewer crowds. Parking fills quickly around midday.
Are there easy viewpoints?
Yes. Short walks lead to overlooks, while longer rim trails are available if you want to explore farther. Some trails are steep, and a sandy path can be slippery.
