Upper Falls of the Yellowstone - Image 1
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Upper Falls Yellowstone

4.8
·200 reviews·, United States

Witness the thunderous power of Upper Falls, a breathtaking spectacle within Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, offering stunning vistas and rainbow magic.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Upper Falls of the Yellowstone - Image 1

Upper Falls Yellowstone

Best Time

Sunrise

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the thunderous power of Upper Falls, a breathtaking spectacle within Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, offering stunning vistas and rainbow magic.

4.8
(200 reviews)

"The falls were one of the many highlights. Seeing a rainbow was a reminder of the beauty and wonder."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Early Bird Gets the View

Visit at sunrise for optimal photography and to avoid crowds.

🅿️ Parking Patience

Be patient with parking; it can get busy, but spaces usually open up.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upper Falls Grandeur

Upper Falls Grandeur

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Witness the immense power and beauty of this iconic waterfall, a true highlight of Yellowstone.

Reddit
Rainbow Views

Rainbow Views

Viewing areas near Upper Falls

Experience the magic of seeing a rainbow arch over the falls, a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Reddit
Ravine Scenery

Ravine Scenery

Area surrounding Upper Falls

Admire the dramatic ravine carved by the falls, resembling a smaller-scale Grand Canyon.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Upper Falls

Visit Upper Falls Yellowstone early in the morning, ideally around sunrise, for the best light and fewer crowds. Patience is key for parking, especially during peak season. Reddit

Photography & Accessibility

Capture stunning photos with optimal lighting during early morning visits. While some areas are easily accessible, note that pets are not allowed. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunrise
Why
Best light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Early Morning
Why
Avoid peak traffic
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Easiest Hike to a Waterfall in Yellowstone?

🌅 Early Bird Gets the View

Visit at sunrise for optimal photography and to avoid crowds. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Patience

Be patient with parking; it can get busy, but spaces usually open up. Reddit

reddit.com

Does this viewpoint of the upper falls of Grand Canyon of Yellowstone still exist and where do I park and hike to see it??? Please and Thank you

reddit.com

Location? Trying to figure out where in Yellowstone this river/waterfall is

🚫 No Pets Allowed

Remember that pets are not permitted in this area. Reddit

💧 Water Refill Station

Convenient water refilling stations are available. Reddit

reddit.com

Best time of day to see Upper & Lower Falls

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Early Bird Gets the View

Visit at sunrise for optimal photography and to avoid crowds. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Patience

Be patient with parking; it can get busy, but spaces usually open up. Reddit

🚫 No Pets Allowed

Remember that pets are not permitted in this area. Reddit

💧 Water Refill Station

Convenient water refilling stations are available. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(200 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Upper Falls for its breathtaking beauty and powerful presence, often calling it a highlight of their Yellowstone trip. The stunning canyon scenery and the chance to see rainbows add to the magical experience. While parking can be challenging and crowds are common, most agree the views are well worth the patience. Reddit

"Yellowstone is a trip of a lifetime. The falls were one of the many highlights. Seeing a rainbow was a reminder of the beauty and wonder."

J MR

"💯 recommended place to visit breathtaking views 🥰 However it might get busy and might not get parking space but be patient🤞"

buddhi gurung

"Beautiful and stunning but not great view points but lower falls has a nice little hike you can take the dog on and a great view from.up top and down on the hike"

Jason Lovegrove

What People Like

Breathtaking beauty
Powerful waterfall
Rainbow sightings

What People Dislike

Crowded viewpoints
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Upper Falls is located within the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Access is typically via the South Rim Drive. Parking can be challenging, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to viewpoints near Upper Falls. The South Rim Drive provides access, but be prepared for potential traffic and limited parking. Reddit

From Old Faithful, you'll need to drive towards the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It's a scenic drive, but allow ample time due to potential park traffic. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated shuttle directly to Upper Falls, the park has various shuttle systems that might connect to areas near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Check the official Yellowstone National Park website for current shuttle routes. Reddit

Yes, there are various hiking trails around the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone that offer views of Upper Falls. The Brink of the Upper Falls trail is a short, paved path leading to an overlook. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Upper Falls is located within Yellowstone National Park, so you will need a valid park entrance pass. Passes can be purchased at park entrances or online in advance. Reddit

Upper Falls is accessible year-round, but road access may be limited in winter. The park itself is generally open 24 hours a day, but visitor facilities have specific hours. Reddit

No, once you have paid the Yellowstone National Park entrance fee, there are no additional charges to access the viewpoints for Upper Falls. Reddit

Park entrance passes can be purchased in advance online to save time at the entrance station. There are no specific timed-entry tickets required for Upper Falls itself. Reddit

It's recommended to purchase your Yellowstone National Park pass in advance online to expedite your entry, especially during peak season. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Brink of the Upper Falls trail offers a close-up view. Other viewpoints along the South Rim Drive also provide stunning perspectives of the falls and the canyon. Reddit

Yes, there are restrooms available at the viewpoints and trailheads near Upper Falls. Reddit

The Brink of the Upper Falls trail is a short, paved, and relatively easy walk. Other trails in the area can vary in difficulty. Reddit

No, pets are not allowed in the immediate vicinity of Upper Falls or on most park trails. Service animals are permitted. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing as weather can change quickly, and bring rain gear. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early morning, around sunrise, offers the best light for photography and often results in rainbows. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and canyon. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures. Reddit

The Brink of the Upper Falls trail provides an immersive perspective. Explore various overlooks along the South Rim Drive for different compositions. Reddit

Rainbows are most common in the morning mist. Be patient and have your camera ready, as they can appear and disappear quickly. Reddit

Mist from the falls can affect your lens, so bring a lens cloth. Dealing with crowds and finding unique angles can also be challenging. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Upper Falls offers a fantastic experience for families. The Brink of the Upper Falls trail is short, paved, and accessible, making it manageable for most children. The sheer power and beauty of the waterfall are captivating for all ages. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and keep a close eye on children near the overlooks. Reddit

While pets are not allowed, the accessible trails and stunning scenery provide ample opportunities for family photos and creating lasting memories. Visiting early in the morning can help avoid meltdowns caused by crowds and long waits. The nearby restrooms are also a convenient amenity for families. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Upper Falls is a dream location. The best time to capture its majesty is during the golden hours – sunrise and sunset. Sunrise, in particular, often brings the magical appearance of rainbows in the mist, a highly sought-after photographic subject. Reddit

Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the falls and the canyon. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and to achieve smooth water effects. Be prepared for mist, so a lens cloth is essential. Experiment with different viewpoints along the South Rim Drive to find unique compositions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Power of Upper Falls

Upper Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It plunges approximately 109 feet (33 meters) into the Yellowstone River. The sheer volume of water and the dramatic drop create a powerful and awe-inspiring sight. The surrounding canyon walls, painted in hues of yellow, pink, and orange, add to the breathtaking scenery. Reddit

Visitors can experience the falls from various viewpoints. The Brink of the Upper Falls trail is a short, paved path that leads to an overlook right at the edge of the waterfall, offering an immersive and powerful perspective. This trail is generally accessible and provides a close-up encounter with the falls' might. Reddit

Beyond the immediate viewpoints, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone itself is a major attraction. The ravine carved by the river offers stunning vistas, and many visitors compare its scale and beauty to a smaller version of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Exploring the various overlooks along the South Rim Drive provides different angles and perspectives of both Upper and Lower Falls. Reddit

Navigating Crowds and Timing

Yellowstone National Park, and particularly popular spots like Upper Falls, can experience significant crowds, especially during the summer months. To make the most of your visit and avoid the busiest times, strategic planning is essential. Many travelers recommend arriving as early as possible in the day, ideally around sunrise, to experience the falls with fewer people and better lighting conditions for photography. Reddit

Traffic jams can also be a concern within the park. By visiting popular areas like Upper Falls during off-peak hours, you can reduce your chances of getting stuck in congestion. The period after lunch until sundown is often the busiest, so aiming for the morning or late afternoon can significantly improve your experience. Patience is also a virtue when it comes to parking; while it might seem full, spaces often become available as visitors depart. Reddit

Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) if your schedule allows. While weather can be more unpredictable, you'll generally encounter fewer visitors than during the peak summer season. Always check the official Yellowstone National Park website for any alerts or road closures that might affect your travel plans. Reddit

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