Brink of the Lower Falls hike
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Brink of the Lower Falls hike
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The Lower Brink of Yellowstone Falls trail is a steep climb down to the viewpoint of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The hike is a lot easier than the way back up, however, the massive, cascading waterfalls are simply amazing. Do not forget your camera for this one!
Getting there
Head south from Canyon Junction down Grand Loop Rd. There will be a signed, one-way road leading towards the Brink of the Lower Falls. It brings you down through a parking lot and then loops back around to Canyon Village. The parking lot fills up very quickly, so get here early or be prepared to park far away from the trailhead.
About
| When to do | May through October |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | At Parking Lot |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Extreme |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Brink of the Lower Falls
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Brink of the Lower Falls
The trail begins right beside the washrooms. It drops approximately 328ft down to the viewpoint over the Lower Yellowstone Falls, with efficient switchbacks the entire way. This allows for a wide variety of fitness levels!
From the viewpoint you will be right at the crest of the Lower Falls. The raging Yellowstone River tumbles down 308ft, constituting the largest volume waterfall in the United States’ Rocky Mountains.
You will also be able to look down the spectacular Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a 984ft deep canyon carved over the ages by this powerful river. Hike back up the way you came and slog through the traffic back to Canyon Village.
Brink of the Lower Falls hike in 2024
For those planning to hike the Brink of the Lower Falls in Yellowstone in 2024, it’s important to be prepared for a busy trail on a steep trail. Although the hiking conditions are expected to remain unchanged, the trail descends approximately 600 feet over a 0.4-mile stretch to a viewpoint that offers spectacular views of the Lower Falls and the Yellowstone River plunging into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Given the popularity of this trail and Yellowstone in general, visitors should expect busy conditions, especially in the summer months.
Insider Hints
On hot days stop at Canyon Village for a cold drink. They also have a gift shop, visitor center, general store and a cafeteria.
There are places to rest along the steep trail, don’t worry!
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jamaieca 4 years ago
The view of the raging waterfalls was lovely. It was a short arduous hike with great views.
MamaBear 4 years ago
Steep trails will work your legs hard. Albeit, amazed with the majestic falls.
Minerva Y. 4 years ago
Fun hike to do with friends. There were some gift shops with lovely merchandise items. I bought a cute key chain.
Tom Pack. 4 years ago
The rainbow is gorgeous with the water! A must visit place in Yellowstone National park
Benny Aster 4 years ago
Beautiful hike. Enjoyed the unique views from the top.
Peter McGuiness 4 years ago
Nice area. Very accessible. It's not that hard but it would test your patience. Always be mindful of the surroundings.
Carmilla Shzm 5 years ago
I've been chasing waterfalls lately with my husband, and this one did not dissapoint. Weather was outstanding, It was a wonderful day.
Snow Elisse 5 years ago
Wonderful hike, get there early to avoid the scorching sun. If you can start it at sunrise you can avoid most heavy traffic.
hikingbunny 5 years ago
We started the hike before 8am and there only few people on the trail. 7am is a good time to start.
Allita Pom 5 years ago
It was a nice hike. Ascending was way easier than descending.