About
Length (round trip)0.8 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyHard
Elevation gain600 ft up
Typical time45 min
TrailheadNorth Rim Drive, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
SurfaceSteep paved switchbacks
Best seasonJune to September. Most park roads close to cars from early November to late April, and higher trails hold snow into July.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityThis trail is extremely steep and drops 600 feet (180 m) over 0.4-mile
What you'll see 💧 Waterfall🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek

Depending on the time of year, anywhere between 5,000 -60,000 gallons per second (18,927-22,7125 l/s) of water plunges 308 feet (93 m) over Lower Falls. You can catch a distant view of this power from some overlooks adjacent to the parking lot. Or you can descend to the brink on this steep trail that drops 600 feet (180 m) over 0.4-mile. View Upper Falls from a short spur at the trail's beginning. This trail is closed in winter. Safety notes: not recommended for visitors with heart, lung, or other health conditions.

Tips
Six hundred feet down and back up in less than a mile - the climb out is the whole hike. Standing at the brink with the river going over beside you is the single most visceral spot in the park.
Location

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