Brink of the Lower Falls Trail – Lower Yellowstone Falls loop from Lower Yellowstone Falls
Brink of the Lower Falls Trail – Lower Yellowstone Falls loop from Lower Yellowstone Falls
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Brink of the Lower Falls Trail – Lower Yellowstone Falls loop from Lower Yellowstone Falls
01:35
5.20km
180m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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208 m
Brink of the Lower Falls Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Waterfall
Tip by
773 m
Lower Yellowstone Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River are a majestic sight, plunging dramatically into the Grand Canyon of the …
Tip by
1.63 km
Lower Falls Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
1.84 km
View of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Lower Falls
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.44 km
Lookout Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.98 km
Red Rock Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.91 km
View of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.01 km
Lower Falls View, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone North Rim 🌊
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.20 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.31 km
854 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.05 km
1.90 km
927 m
307 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,350 m)
Lowest point (2,280 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 8 July
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an immersive experience at one of Yellowstone's most iconic natural features, the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail – Lower Yellowstone Falls loop from Lower Yellowstone Falls delivers. This easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) hiking route, with 580 feet (177 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hours and 35 minutes, offering a high-payoff view for a relatively short effort, though it includes a notably steep section. It's perfect for those who want to feel the power of the falls up close.
What to expect on Brink of the Lower Falls Trail – Lower Yellowstone Falls loop from Lower Yellowstone Falls
This route takes you right to the crest of the majestic 308-foot (94-meter) Lower Yellowstone Falls, offering an unparalleled view of the massive volume of water plunging into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. While the overall loop is rated easy, the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail section involves a steep descent down 8-10 switchbacks on a paved path, followed by a strenuous climb back up. You'll hike through a forested section of the canyon, and if you visit in the afternoon, the mist from the falls often creates a rainbow. This trail suits hikers who are prepared for a significant, albeit short, uphill challenge to reach a truly spectacular viewpoint.
Planning your visit
The trail is often crowded, especially during peak season, so arriving early can help you avoid the busiest times. Be aware that the rapid and significant elevation change on the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail makes the climb back up quite tiring, particularly for those not accustomed to hiking at over 7,000 feet altitude. The National Park Service advises that this section is not recommended for visitors with heart, lung, or other health conditions. Trekking poles can be helpful for the steep descent.
Trail details
- Distance: 3.2 miles (5.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 580 feet (177 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 35 minutes
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