Lower Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park at over 300 feet tall.
Yellowstone National Park
15 Minutes
Spring, Summer
~$35 per Vehicle
Overview
It’s believed that the Lower Falls was formed because the river flows over volcanic rock in this area, which is more resistant to erosion than those downstream. Meaning that, over thousands of years, the rocks below eroded due to past and current hydrothermal activity, creating the 300-foot drop in the river. Scientists think the oldest Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone formed in rock and sediments over 100,000 years ago.
In 1870, a member of the Washburn party described the waterfall as something that had never been seen before: “A grander scene than the lower cataract of the Yellowstone was never witnessed by mortal eyes.”. In other words, this is one of the most spectacular sights in the park and a place that everyone should witness in their lifetime.
Lower Falls
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Lower Falls Plan
In Ryan’s Junior Ranger book, he read all about the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River and kept telling us he had to see it because it’s the biggest and most beautiful waterfall in the park. The waterfall is part of the “Grand Canyon of Yellowstone” along the Yellowstone River. The canyon starts at the Lower Falls and ends at Tower Fall.
Ryan mesmerized by the waterfall
Ryan with Lower Falls behind him
Getting There
Location
Yellowstone National Park is in the northwest corner of Wyoming and spills over into Idaho and Montana. Although the park is large, it isn’t the easiest to get to as there aren’t any close major airports. The two best ways to get to it are through the Billings, Montana, airport from the north or Jackson Hole, Wyoming, airport to the south driving through Grand Teton National Park.
Best Time to Go
Many of Yellowstone’s roads are closed in the winter months, so the best time to visit is from the end of May through October. This is peak season so you may be overwhelmed by the number of visitors the first time you go to the park. If possible, try going in September or early October when the crowds have thinned a little as kids go back to school.
Stephanie, Ryan, Justin, and Tyler in front of Lower Falls
Ryan and Tyler watching the waterfall
Lower Falls
Who Can Go?
The pathway to Lookout Point is a paved pathway that leads from the parking lot to the viewing platform. The pathway is about 300 feet, but it is a little steep in a few places. This may be accessible for those in wheelchairs with a bit of assistance.
What You'll See
From Lookout Point, you can see down to the Yellowstone River at the bottom of the canyon. To the west is Lower Falls and to the east is more of the canyon. Look for the dark orange, brown, and green colors on the rocks as those are indicators of active hydrothermal features.
Lower Falls
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
What to Bring & Wear
For this short jaunt to Lookout Point to view the Lower Falls, I suggest wearing close-toed shoes with traction. There are railings that are pretty tall at the overlook, but it helps to have good shoes, especially if the pathway is wet or slippery. Always carry plenty of water and snacks with you no matter where you are in the park.
Where to Go
There’s a parking area just past the Canyon Village Visitor Center, heading south, called Lookout Point. You can get to this from North Rim Drive which is a one-way road off of Grand Loop Road. This was the best place to view the waterfall without hiking along a trail.
How Long Does it Take?
We spent about 15 minutes here. The walk to Lookout Point only took us about 3 minutes to walk, but we spent some time taking in the gorgeous views. Ryan, especially, didn’t want to leave the area. He was completely fascinated by the waterfall.
Cost
The only cost is the entrance fee for Yellowstone National Park when you enter the park. This is at most $35 per vehicle.
Stephanie at Lower Falls
Tyler & Ryan taking a break
Tips for Lower Falls
- There are a few trails that will get you closer to the waterfall: North Rim Trail, Red Rocks Lookout Trail, and Brink of the Lower Falls Trail from North Rim Drive or Artist Point Trail, South Rim Trail, and Uncle Tom's Trail off South Rim Drive.
- You can also view the falls in the distance from Inspiration Point.