Upper Falls Yellowstone
Witness the thunderous power of Upper Falls, a breathtaking spectacle within Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, offering stunning vistas and rainbow magic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Upper Falls Yellowstone
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
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.
"The falls were one of the many highlights. Seeing a rainbow was a reminder of the beauty and wonder."
🌅 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.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 203 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Falls Grandeur
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Witness the immense power and beauty of this iconic waterfall, a true highlight of Yellowstone.
Rainbow Views
Viewing areas near Upper Falls
Experience the magic of seeing a rainbow arch over the falls, a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Ravine Scenery
Area surrounding Upper Falls
Admire the dramatic ravine carved by the falls, resembling a smaller-scale Grand Canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Upper Falls
Photography & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Easiest Hike to a Waterfall in Yellowstone?
I’m taking my mom to Yellowstone she’s not in the best of health but can walk short distances and then take a break and go a little further. I’d like to get her to a waterfall, are there any hikes that are reasonable, like 2-4 miles and not too much elevation change that can get…
🌅 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.
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
I think it's Artists Point.
Location? Trying to figure out where in Yellowstone this river/waterfall is
Brink of the upper falls.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Remember that pets are not permitted in this area.
💧 Water Refill Station
Convenient water refilling stations are available.
Best time of day to see Upper & Lower Falls
Will be staying at Old Faithful Lodge in next last weekend of August and wondering when would be best time of day to visit falls to avoid crowds and traffic jams?
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 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.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Remember that pets are not permitted in this area.
💧 Water Refill Station
Convenient water refilling stations are available.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, you can drive to viewpoints near Upper Falls. The South Rim Drive provides access, but be prepared for potential traffic and limited parking.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
No, once you have paid the Yellowstone National Park entrance fee, there are no additional charges to access the viewpoints for Upper Falls.
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.
It's recommended to purchase your Yellowstone National Park pass in advance online to expedite your entry, especially during peak season.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the viewpoints and trailheads near Upper Falls.
The Brink of the Upper Falls trail is a short, paved, and relatively easy walk. Other trails in the area can vary in difficulty.
No, pets are not allowed in the immediate vicinity of Upper Falls or on most park trails. Service animals are permitted.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing as weather can change quickly, and bring rain gear. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning, around sunrise, offers the best light for photography and often results in rainbows. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting.
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.
The Brink of the Upper Falls trail provides an immersive perspective. Explore various overlooks along the South Rim Drive for different compositions.
Rainbows are most common in the morning mist. Be patient and have your camera ready, as they can appear and disappear quickly.
Mist from the falls can affect your lens, so bring a lens cloth. Dealing with crowds and finding unique angles can also be challenging.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit