Yellowstone’s Colorful Masterpiece
When people picture Yellowstone, they often think of geysers and wildlife, but the park is also home to a canyon so beautiful it stops visitors in their tracks. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a dramatic gorge of golden cliffs and thundering waterfalls, and it is one of the most breathtaking sights in the entire park. Here is a guide to this natural wonder and how to experience it.
A Canyon Painted in Color
What makes this canyon so special is its color. Carved by the Yellowstone River, the walls glow in vivid shades of yellow, orange, pink, and cream, the result of heat and minerals altering the volcanic rock over time. In fact, many believe the park itself may have been named for these golden-yellow cliffs. Standing at an overlook and taking in the sweep of color is an unforgettable experience.
The Powerful Waterfalls
The canyon is home to two magnificent waterfalls that are the highlight for many visitors. The Upper Falls and the even taller Lower Falls send the Yellowstone River crashing into the gorge in a roar of white water and mist. The Lower Falls, in particular, is a showstopper, plunging more than 300 feet, nearly twice the height of Niagara. Catching sight of it framed by the golden canyon walls is pure magic.
The Best Viewpoints
There are several wonderful ways to take in the canyon, each offering a different perspective.
- Artist Point on the south rim, famous for its classic postcard view.
- Lookout Point and other north rim overlooks for sweeping vistas.
- Short trails and stairways that bring you closer to the falls, for those who want a workout.
Even a quick stop at one of the main overlooks rewards you with a jaw-dropping view.
Tips for Visiting
A little planning helps you make the most of the canyon. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best light on the colorful walls, and give yourself time to see it from more than one overlook, since each angle is different. Stay behind railings and on marked trails, as the cliffs are steep and the drops are sheer. The canyon is a natural stop on a loop through the park, so it pairs easily with the geysers and wildlife areas.
See the Canyon for Yourself
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a masterpiece of color and power, from its glowing golden walls to the thunder of its waterfalls. Stop at Artist Point, soak in the view, and let the scale of it sink in. On our guided tours, we help you catch this and the park’s other wonders at their best, so you never miss one of Yellowstone’s most spectacular sights.