Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park

Perhaps the most picturesque area of the Yellowstone region is the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The canyon is approximately 10,000 years old, 20 miles long, 1000 ft deep, and 2500 ft wide.

Overview
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is the most breathtaking sight in Yellowstone National Park. This awe-inspiring canyon can be 4,000 feet wide in some areas and as deep as 1,200 feet.

From the canyon’s many vantage points, you can see two of the most impressive Yellowstone waterfalls: the Lower Falls, which steeply cascades 308 feet into the canyon, and the Upper Falls, which tumbles 109 feet down.

Location/Directions
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is located very near to Canyon Village, Yellowstone. To get to Canyon Village drive 38 miles from the northeast entrance, 43 miles or 43 miles from the east entrance – both on the Grand Loop Road. These roads are accessible from early May through late October.

Hours/Seasons
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is accessible only part of the year, from early May through late October. Most parts of Yellowstone are only open to commercially led snowmobile tours or commercial snow coaches during the winter. All travel within the Park is weather dependent during the winter months.

Fees/Cost
There is no additional charge to view the Yellowstone Grand Canyon in addition to the Park entrance fee.

More Info

Great Photographic Opportunities
Hiking trails and observation points along both rims of the east-west-oriented canyon provide many opportunities to view it. Bring your camera. Everyone takes a picture of this spectacular place.

Walks and Overlooks
Three walking trails and five overlooks provide Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone views from both rims. All trails are subject to seasonal closures. Check at the Canyon Village Visitor Center for current conditions.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone North Rim
Take the one-way road from Canyon Lodge to reach the North Rim. Viewpoints and trails along the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone in the order you will encounter them:

• Cascade Overlook Trail: This trail starts at the well-marked Glacial Boulder and goes about 3/4 mile to Silver Cord Cascade Overlook.
• Inspiration Point: Enjoy canyon views from the parking area, or walk down 50 steps to the overlook for a better look. The steep climb back up from the overlook is moderately strenuous. From here, the partly paved North Rim Trail leads three miles (4.8 km) to Brink of the Upper Falls.
• Grandview Point: This overlook is wheelchair accessible with assistance, and a good place to see the river's twisting course below.
• Lookout Point and Red Rock: Accessed from the parking area, Lookout Point provides the first look at the Lower Falls, while Red Rock Trail (a strenuous walk not recommended for those with health problems) takes you close enough to feel the spray.
• Brink of Lower Falls: Take the trail to the edge and watch the thousands of gallons of water cascade over the falls every second. This is a strenuous hike.
• Brink of Upper Falls: While shorter than the lower falls, upper falls is equally impressive. The trail here leads to an overlook where the spray often creates afternoon rainbows.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone South Rim
Just across the river from Canyon Village, exit the road for Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone South Rim sights:

• South Rim Trail: This partly paved trail runs from near the Chittenden Bridge past Artist Point and on into the backcountry.
• Upper Falls: This is an easy walk to two viewpoints of the Upper Falls.
• Uncle Tom's Trail: Paved inclines and steps lead 500 feet down to a viewing platform for an intimate look at the Lower Falls. This walk is steep, and strenuous. Wear flat-soled shoes, as much of the walkway is made from perforated steel sheeting.
• Artist Point: The often-photographed view of the waterfall cascading into the canyon makes it easy to understand this observation point's name.