Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
After the last major eruption, the Yellowstone River slowly eroded the soft rock of a former lava flow.
Plan Around Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
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Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Details
After the last major eruption of the Yellowstone volcano, the Yellowstone River slowly eroded the soft rock of a former lava flow, eventually creating the 20-mile-long Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Here you can see not only the typical Yellowstone geothermal features -- like steam venting out of canyon walls -- but also the geological history of this turbulent part of the planet. The canyon is more than 1,000 feet deep and up to 4,000 feet wide, and you can walk or drive along the rim to enjoy the many canyon overlooks. You may also spot some of the wildlife that make this area their home, including ospreys that nest within the canyon walls and dive into the river to snare fish.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
Region
Canyon Village to Tower-Roosevelt
Nearby Parks Around Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Compare nearby parks around Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Lower Falls
The ferocious Lower Falls send more than 37,000 gallons of water plummeting 308 feet every second.
0.2 mi away
Uncle Tom's Trail
Uncle Tom's Trail was first constructed in 1898 by "Uncle" Tom Richardson.
0.3 mi away
North Rim Drive
The one-way North Rim Drive takes you to the aptly-named Brink of Lower Falls Trail.
0.3 mi away
Uncle Tom's Parking Area
A vault toilet is available at the parking lot.
0.4 mi away
Upper Falls Overlook
The Upper Falls Viewpoint not only gives you a good look at Upper Falls but also Crystal Falls.
