Things to Do at Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Complete Guide to Grand Canyon of Yellowstone in Yellowstone National Park

About Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is one of those places that actually lives up to the hype, which is saying something given how much attention it gets. Carved by the Yellowstone River over thousands of years, this 20-mile-long canyon drops as much as 1,200 feet deep in places, creating a dramatic gorge that's painted in yellows, oranges, and reds - colors that give Yellowstone its name. The canyon walls get their striking hues from hydrothermal activity that's been altering the rhyolite rock for ages, creating what might be the most photographed景观 in the entire park. What makes this canyon particularly special isn't just its size - though it's genuinely impressive - but the way it showcases Yellowstone's geological story. You'll find yourself looking at evidence of volcanic eruptions, glacial activity, and ongoing thermal processes all in one sweeping view. The Lower Falls, plunging 308 feet into the canyon, serves as the dramatic centerpiece, though honestly, the entire canyon system offers those moments where you just have to stop and take it in.

What to See & Do

Artist Point

The classic viewpoint for Lower Falls and the canyon - it's popular for good reason, offering that postcard-perfect perspective that captures both the waterfall and the colorful canyon walls

Lower Falls

At 308 feet, it's twice the height of Niagara Falls and considerably more dramatic, especially when the morning light hits the mist and creates rainbows

Uncle Tom's Trail

A steep trail with metal stairs that gets you much closer to Lower Falls - your legs might complain about the 328 steps down (and back up), but the perspective is worth it

Grand View Point

Lives up to its name with sweeping views of the entire canyon system - less crowded than Artist Point and gives you a better sense of the canyon's full scale

Lookout Point

Another excellent vantage point for Lower Falls, particularly good in the afternoon when the light angle brings out the canyon's colors

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Canyon area is accessible 24/7 when roads are open, typically late May through mid-October. Some viewpoints may close earlier in season due to snow

Tickets & Pricing

Included with Yellowstone National Park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle for 7 days, $70 annual Yellowstone pass, or $80 America the Beautiful annual pass)

Best Time to Visit

June through September for full access to all viewpoints. Early morning (7-10 AM) offers the best light for photography and fewer crowds. Late May and early October can be beautiful but some trails might be icy

Suggested Duration

Plan 2-4 hours to see the main viewpoints comfortably, or a full day if you want to hike the rim trails and really explore

Getting There

The canyon sits right on Grand Loop Road. Most accessible major attraction in Yellowstone. Coming from the south, you'll hit Canyon Village first-the visitor center there is worth a stop. From the north? You'll reach North Rim viewpoints first. Most people drive from either West Thumb (~19 miles) or Mammoth Hot Springs (21 miles). Roads stay well-maintained during season. Check conditions before you go. Yellowstone's weather can't be trusted, even in summer-snow hits in June some years.

Things to Do Nearby

Hayden Valley
Just south of the canyon, this wildlife-rich valley is prime bison and elk territory, with the Yellowstone River meandering through grasslands

Mud Volcano Area
About 6 miles south, featuring some of Yellowstone's more dramatic thermal features including Dragon's Mouth Spring and churning mud pots

Norris Geyser Basin
The hottest thermal area in the park, roughly 12 miles north, with constantly changing features and the impressive Steamboat Geyser

Tower Fall
A scenic 132-foot waterfall about 18 miles northeast, surrounded by distinctive volcanic rock pinnacles

Canyon Village
The hub for the area with visitor center, dining, and lodging - plus it's where you'll find the best overview of the canyon's geological story

Tips & Advice

Get to Artist Point early - by 10 AM it can be packed with tour groups, and parking becomes a real challenge

Bring layers even in summer; the canyon rim can be surprisingly windy and cool, especially in the morning

If you're photographing the falls, a polarizing filter helps cut through the mist and brings out the canyon colors

Uncle Tom's Trail is steep and can be slippery when wet - the metal stairs get particularly treacherous, so take your time and use the handrails