Artist Point Trail
Table of contents
The hike to Artist Point is an essential part of anyone’s visit to Yellowstone National Park. One of the most scenic spots in the entire park, Artist Point awards visitors with incredible views of the Yellowstone River Canyon and the Lower Yellowstone Falls. This trail is family-friendly and do-able for hikers of all ages and skill levels.
Route Description for Artist Point Trail
The Artist Point Trail is a must-do on your visit to Yellowstone National Park. This trail gets extremely busy, especially in the summer at the height of tourist season. We suggest heading out on this hike early in the morning to beat the crowds. Alternatively, you can check out this trail in the evening when most folks have cleared out for the night. The Artist Point Trail is well maintained but does have a few stairs, so it may not be appropriate for folks who use a wheelchair or people pushing strollers.
From Artist Point, you will earn incredible views of the Yellowstone River Canyon and the Lower Falls. The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River draws thousands of tourists from worldwide every year. This waterfall is almost twice the height of Niagara Falls and claims the title of “highest volume waterfall in the American Rocky Mountains.” The view from Artist Point may be the most photographed point in the Park, and for good reason; with shades of pink, orange, and yellow along the canyon walls and the breathtaking waterfall cutting through the middle of your sightline, this look-out is guaranteed to leave you speechless.
To hike to Artist Point, begin at the trailhead parking lot and follow the path on your right for just a few hundred yards to the viewpoint.
Take your time at Artist Point and soak in the incredible views of the Canyon below. Then, when you are ready to head home, simply retrace your steps back to the trailhead the way you came.
Trail Highlights
Lower Falls
The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River is the waterfall with the largest volume in the American Rocky Mountains. At 94 m tall, these falls are almost twice the height of Niagara Falls. The best time to see the Lower Falls is the late spring when the meltwater swells the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest waterfall in Yellowstone?
The Lower Falls on the Yellowstone River is the largest waterfall in Yellowstone National Park.
Insider Hints for Artist Point Trail
- Bring along binoculars and see if you can spy birds including osprey and bald eagles who live along the canyon walls
- For a longer hike that features Artist Point, check out the Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and Artist Point Trail.
Getting to the Artist Point Trail Trailhead
This hike begins at the Artist Point Trailhead along South Rim Road.
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
Artist Point Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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