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YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK — In 1870, Nathaniel P. Langford, a member of the Washburn Party, gazed upon the Lower Falls in Yellowstone’s "grand canyon" and declared, “A grander scene than the lower cataract of the Yellowstone was never witnessed by mortal eyes.”
The grand canyon of Yellowstone National Park and its crown jewel, the 308-foot lower falls, (more than twice the height of Niagra Falls) played a major role in the creation of the world’s first national park and is rumored to be the origin of the title, "Yellowstone."
This dramatic canyon is one of the main attractions in Yellowstone National Park. Dozens of vantage points offer striking views from which to admire this prized landmark, and though the question of where to find the best view is certainly debatable, one of the top contenders has to be the base of Uncle Tom’s trail, deep within the canyon itself.
With the roar of the water echoing off the canyon walls and a picturesque rainbow nearly always visible within the bellowing mist at the base of the lower falls, it’s worth getting the up-close look that only Uncle Tom’s Trail can provide.
It is worth noting that the trail is sometimes closed so check with park officials or on the Yellowstone National Park website before attempting to hike it.
Trailhead
To access the trailhead for Uncle Tom's Trail, go a couple miles south of Canyon Village and turn east onto Artist Point Road. Park at the Artist Point parking area and look for the Uncle Tom’s Trail marker.
Difficulty
At less than 1 mile one way, this out-and-back trail is hardly lengthy and is reasonable for people of varying fitness levels. After descending a handful of paved switchbacks, you’ll encounter a couple steel bridges before reaching the set of over 300 steel steps. In all, the trail descends more than 500 feet into the heart of the canyon. Make sure to travel at a pace that is appropriate for your fitness level.
Safety
Make sure to stay on the trail. Doing so will help keep you safe and preserve the land and experience for others. Uncle Tom’s Trail descends dramatically into the canyon and straying from the trail or stairs is not only prohibited, but is also very dangerous.
Yellowstone National Park is home to many majestic and unpredictable animals including both black bears and grizzly bears, as well as large bison and elk. Encounters are always a possibility. These can be thrilling experiences, but remember that the wild animals in Yellowstone are wild and potentially dangerous. Keep your distance and do not approach or attempt to feed wildlife. The National Park Service requires that visitors remain 100 yards from predators and 25 yards from all other large animals.
Make sure you adhere to all wildlife guidelines. The best wildlife safety practice is prevention. Hike in groups and remain alert. Click here for information on bear and wildlife safety when visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone has so much to offer, especially for those who leave the car behind and venture out on the park's more than 900 miles of hiking trails. And Uncle Tom’s Trail is a great introduction to hiking in Yellowstone.