Downstream from Yellowstone Falls is Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.  Here, the Yellowstone River has carved a canyon that is, at point 1,200 feet deep and is 24 miles long. The 300 foot lower falls emptying into the canyon is one of the most magnificent sites in one of the country’s most beautiful parks. Take North Rim Drive to see one of the four viewing areas where you can take in various aspects of the canyon. There are also several hiking trails that will allow you to experience the canyon closer up. For the closest views of the lower falls, try Uncle Tom’s Trail. It’s a 328-step metal staircase that will take you to the base of the lower falls.

Yellowstone National Park is set atop a supervolcano, so it’s no surprise that the park is filled with hydrothermal activities, including hot springs and geysers. The two most popular are the Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful.  Grand Prismatic Spring is the third largest hot spring in the world. At over 120 feet deep, the minerals, temperature changes and bacteria give the spring its rich and varied colors. It’s one of the most photographed areas in the park. The most famous geyser in the world, Old Faithful is a must see in the park. Erupting to a height of about 140 feet, Old Faithful shoots heated water on a semi-regular schedule that gave it its name. It’s easily accessible and very popular. Right next to the geyser, you’ll find a parking lot, ranger station and plenty of places to watch the geyser. The park will provide information about the schedule.

One of the main draws of the park, in addition to the deep canyons, springs and geysers is the wildlife. There’s no better place to see the parks bison, bears, wolves and others than Lamar Valley. Sometimes referred to as “America’s Serengeti”, you can reach it on the Beartooth Highway in the northeastern part of the park. Here you’ll likely see many of the park’s bison roaming as they make their way through the valley and along the Lamar River. For an up-close view, try the Lamar Valley Trail. It’s a 7 mile out-and-back trail that can be used for hiking or horseback riding. Because it’s out and back, you can always turn around if you’d like a shorter experience. As always, be mindful of the park’s wildlife as you may encounter bears or bison.