Uncle Tom's Trail
Uncle Tom's Trail was first constructed in 1898 by "Uncle" Tom Richardson.
Plan Around Uncle Tom's Trail
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Uncle Tom's Trail Details
Uncle Tom's Trail was first constructed in 1898 by "Uncle" Tom Richardson. The five years following its construction, Uncle Tom led visitors on tours which included crossing the river upstream from the present day Chittenden Bridge, and then following his rough trail to the base of the Lower Falls. The tour was concluded with a picnic and a return trip across the river. Today Uncle Tom's Trail is very different from the simple trail used by Mr. Richardson and his visitors. It is still, however, a very strenuous walk into the canyon. The trail drops 500 feet (150 m) in a series of more than 300 stairs and paved inclines. This strenuous trail is not recommended for people with heart, lung, or other health conditions.
Difficulty
High
Distance
0.3 miles
Estimated time
1 hour
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Uncle Tom's Trail
Compare nearby parks around Uncle Tom's Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Uncle Tom's Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Uncle Tom's Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.1 mi away
Uncle Tom's Parking Area
A vault toilet is available at the parking lot.
0.2 mi away
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
After the last major eruption, the Yellowstone River slowly eroded the soft rock of a former lava flow.
0.2 mi away
Lower Falls
The ferocious Lower Falls send more than 37,000 gallons of water plummeting 308 feet every second.
0.3 mi away
Upper Falls Overlook
The Upper Falls Viewpoint not only gives you a good look at Upper Falls but also Crystal Falls.
0.3 mi away
Upper Falls
Drops 109 feet over a ledge of hard volcanic rock that is eroding slower than other rock in the canyon.
