Brink of Lower Falls via the North Rim Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1-1.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
147 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The North Rim Trail to the Brink of the Lower Falls is a must-do on your trip to Yellowstone. The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone river are some of the most impressive and spectacular waterfalls in the park. This route is family-friendly and good for hikers of all skill levels.

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Route Description for Brink of Lower Falls via the North Rim Trail

The North Rim Trail to the Brink of the Lower Falls is a spectacular hike in Yellowstone. This trail is popular and gets very busy, especially at the height of tourist season. If you are visiting in the summertime, we suggest checking out this route early in the day to beat the crowds. The Lower Yellowstone Falls are some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the whole Park. At twice the height of Niagara Falls, the sight of this waterfall is guaranteed to take your breath away.

Beginning at the trailhead, take the path on your right and follow the trail southwest along the rim of the canyon. Just over half a mile in, take the path on your left and descend the switchbacks down to the Brink of the Lower Falls. After an out-and-back to the Lower Falls, continue southwest a short distance and check out the Crystal Falls before returning back to the trailhead the way you came.

If you have time, take a peek at Red Rock Point via the Red Point Trail while you’re in the area.

Getting to the Brink of Lower Falls via the North Rim Trail Trailhead

This hike begins at the parking area on the south side of North Rim Drive, just east of the Brink of the Lower Falls Trailhead.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    May to October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Brink of Lower Falls via the North Rim Trail Elevation Graph

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Brink of Lower Falls via the North Rim Trail Reviews

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