Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is, in my opinion, the number two must-see attraction in Yellowstone.

Most of the scenery in Yellowstone is on an intimate scale but this is not true of the canyon. The canyon has a grand scenic scale that is spectacular. The colorful canyon walls and waterfalls are beautiful and worth exploring.

You can get an interpretive pamphlet about the canyon at the Canyon Visitor Center located in Canyon Village. The pamphlet also describes some of the trails in the area.

To tour the canyon, first take the South Rim Drive to Artist Point and take the short walk to the overlook. Artist Point is the most spectacular overlook. Once you've gotten an overview of the canyon at Artist Point, then take the North Rim Drive, stopping at each lookout. The must-see lookout is at Artist Point.

I recommend the walk down to the lip of the Lower Falls. The Red Rock Trail is almost as nice. I do not recommend Uncle Tom's Trail. There are also trails along both rims of the canyon. The rim trails can get you away from the crowds.

A nice water fall, Crystal Falls, can be seen along the north rim trail between the Lower Falls and Upper Falls. It is best during high runoff.

A nice picnic area is located along the river upstream from the canyon just after you cross the Yellowstone river on your way to Artist Point.

You can see the canyon area in half a day unless you stay with the car, then you can rush through in an hour.

Possibly the ultimate way to first see and experience the Canyon, if you are up to it, is to take the Clear Lake/Lily Pad Lake Loop Trail.

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