Brink of Lower Falls Trail, Yellowstone National Park

Q: Is the trail suitable for children?

Not recommended for very young children due to steep drop-offs and the strenuous climb.

Q: Is there water on the trail?

No; bring sufficient water, at least 3 liters.

Q: Do I need a permit to hike Brink of Lower Falls?

No special permit; Yellowstone entrance fee applies.

Q: Is the path well-marked for navigation?

Yes; the trail is clearly marked and well-worn, but stay mindful near edge sections.

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Difficulty

easy

Distance

0.7 mi

Elevation Gain

450 ft

Est. Time

30 minutes to 1 hour

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

May through October

Overview

About This Trail

Descend the paved switchbacks to the brink of Lower Falls, then handle a relentless climb back up. The edge is a powerful reward, but the ascent tests your legs and lungs, especially at altitude. Stay hydrated, keep your wits about you, and own the grind for the canyon roar on the view.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate (official) / Strenuous in practice

Trail Highlights

Standing at the brink of the Lower Falls, feel the water power, and gaze into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Insider Tips

• Go just after sunrise or after the main crowds disperse to avoid congestion. • Carry 3L water minimum; use trekking poles for the descent and ascent. • Bear spray is essential in Yellowstone; make noise and stay aware. • Allow extra time for the return climb and crowds.

Best Season to Hike

May through October

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 3L water; no reliable water sources on trail.
Trekking poles highly recommended for the descent and ascent.
Bear spray is essential in Yellowstone; make noise and stay alert.
Plan for extra time due to crowds and the strenuous return climb.

Family Info

Not recommended for young children due to steep drop-offs and strenuous climb

What Hikers Say

Hikers describe the burn as real and the payoff as powerful. Crowds are the main complaint, with parking challenges in peak season. The short, steep push is worthwhile for a close-edge view of Lower Falls.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.7 miles

Elevation Gain: 450 ft

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Difficulty: Moderate (official) / Strenuous in practice

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Paved with a few rough patches

Getting There

Trailhead: North Rim Drive, first parking lot, about 1.7 miles south of Canyon Village

Parking: Large paved parking lot

Fills Up: Fills very early, especially in peak season; full by sunrise

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

N/A

Fees: $35 per private vehicle for a 7-day Yellowstone entrance pass

Shuttle Available

Not mandatory; driving to the trailhead is common

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not allowed on this trail

Biking: Not allowed on this trail

Trail Markers: Well-worn trail with clear markers

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable water sources on the trail; carry at least 3L

Shade: Partial shade in woods; exposure on switchbacks

Cell Service: Unreliable; assume minimal to no service

Hazards:

Steep canyon edges require caution near the rim; bears are in the area; afternoon storms can suddenly bring lightning and wind

Emergency: Call 911 for emergencies; Yellowstone rangers; park dispatch; on-site trailhead contacts

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Extreme

Peak Times: Peak summer season

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Paved with some rough patches; steep sections

Family Notes:

Not recommended for young children due to steep drop-offs and strenuous climb

Nearby Facilities

Trailhead restrooms; parking; Canyon Village amenities nearby

What Hikers Say

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.9 /5

Based on 1727 Google reviews

Based on 1727 guest reviews

" Hikers describe the burn as real and the payoff as powerful. Crowds are the main complaint, with parking challenges in peak season. The short, steep push is worthwhile for a close-edge view of Lower Falls."

Reviews from Google

Absolutely stunning — this is one of the must-see stops in Yellowstone. The Brink of the Lower Falls trail is short, easy to follow, and takes you right to the edge of a 308-foot waterfall. You can feel the power of the water as the entire canyon opens up in front of you. The walk back up is a bit of a workout with those switchbacks, but it’s completely worth it for the view.If you’re not up for the hike, no problem — there are two excellent viewpoints right by the parking area that offer incredible angles with almost no walking. Great for families, quick stops, or anyone short on time.Travel tip: Go early for better parking and the best light on the canyon walls. The colors glow in the morning.If you’re planning a visit and have questions, feel free to comment — always happy to help fellow travelers.

This is one of the best spot in the entire park. This spot more than enough to make the entire trip to yellow stone. This place is an entire definition of “wow” factor. As a Californian this reminded me of Yosemite Nevada falls and the valley. Most Idyllic and picturesque spot in the Yellowstone. There is no parking fee at dusk. This place is so scenic many people take wedding photoshoots here. Well maintained.

Absolutely a must see while visiting the park. It’s a breath taking view that does not seem real. We hiked down the switch back trail about 36 inches wide and paved with some gravel from top to bottom. There are seats and benches for going back up. We took a 5 year old and almost 3 year old down and back up “ back pack carrier” for little one. Not stroller friendly. It’s worth the climb . I would say about one hour to go down enjoy the view and climb back up. Definitely follow the pull offs when leaving here as it literally gets better at each stop with the most amazing views you could imagine.

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