Brink of the Lower Falls
Table of contents
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!
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.
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 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
Weather Forecast
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