Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River
Wyoming • 308 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River
Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming. It is the tallest waterfall in the park and offers breathtaking views as the Yellowstone River plunges into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
The Setting
Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River sits at 7,448 feet within Yellowstone National Park, fed by the Tantalus Creek, in the high mountains of Wyoming. At 308 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Wyoming.
Height: 308 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River (109 ft) lies 0.4 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trails to Lower Falls vary in difficulty. Uncle Tom's Trail is a steep descent with over 300 metal stairs leading to a close-up view of the falls. Other viewpoints, such as Artist Point and Lookout Point, offer easier access with stunning panoramic views of the falls and the canyon.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 308 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during late spring through early fall when the trails and roads are fully accessible. Summer offers the best weather, but it is also the busiest season.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Stay on designated trails and viewpoints. The terrain can be steep and slippery, especially near the edge of the canyon. Be cautious of wildlife and changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 21 years of record
1.44 ft
Water depth at gauge
69°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a refreshing 69 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Falls is located in Yellowstone National Park, accessible via the Grand Loop Road. Visitors can park at designated areas such as the Artist Point or Lookout Point parking lots, which provide access to viewpoints and trails leading to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Ample parking is available at multiple viewpoints, including Artist Point, Lookout Point, and Uncle Tom's Trail. However, parking can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
7448 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.717976° N, -110.496425° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early in the day to secure parking and avoid crowds. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Be prepared for steep sections if hiking Uncle Tom's Trail, and wear sturdy shoes.
This trail sits at 7,448 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 30% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 0.6 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins
12.5 miles away · 0 sites
The Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins, built in 1891 and a member of Historic Hotels of America® since 2012 was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2015. Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels across America. Lake Yellowstone Hotel was completed in 1891 as part of a series of hotels to accomodate visitors to Yellowstone National Park. Hotel guestrooms capture the historic a
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Mammoth, Wyoming
Unnamed Spring Gallatin County 6
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Hot Springs
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Warm Spring
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Forest Springs
Forest Springs occupies high-elevation terrain at 7,740 feet within Yellowstone's backcountry, designated 'H' for hot but unmea...
Gas Vents
This roadside thermal feature emerges just 175 feet from Norris-Canyon Road at 8,020 feet elevation, producing acidic waters at...
Sulphur Springs
Sulphur Spring, also known as Crater Hills Geyser, reaches 194°F in Yellowstone's Hayden Valley at 7,805 feet elevation, requir...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Mammoth, Wyoming on SoakingSprings.
Explore Wyoming springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Upper Falls, Artist Point, Lookout Point, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as bison, elk, and birds of prey. Always maintain a safe distance from animals.
Cities near Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River
Nearby Waterfalls
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