Brink of the Lower Falls

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.
0.5-1h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.9 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.
100 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.6
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
View of the Brink of the Lower Falls Hike in Yellowstone National Park

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!

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Route Description for Brink of the Lower Falls

The trail begins right beside the washrooms. It drops approximately 100 m 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 94 m, 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 300 m 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.

Insider Hints for Brink of the Lower Falls

  • 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!

Getting to the Brink of the Lower Falls Trailhead

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.

Route Information

  • 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

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Brink of the Lower Falls Reviews

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