Lower Falls – Power and Majesty. The Brink of the Lower Falls on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone National Park

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Yellowstone Falls consist of two major waterfalls on the Yellowstone River: they are Upper and Lower Falls, both are separated by about a quarter mile, but you want be able to see the Lower Falls from the overlook atop the Upper Falls because of the bend of the Yellowstone River.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Rivet takes its beginning at Upper Falls. This famous canyon is about 20 miles long, more than 1,000 feet deep, and 1,500 to 4,000 feet wide. The Grand Canyon is a wonderful multicolored formation. The colors are caused by oxidation of iron compounds in the rhyolite rock, which has been hydrothermally altered. The colors indicate the presence or absence of water in the individual iron compounds and hydration of minerals in the rock. Yellow color of the canyon that predominates here is a result of iron and sulfur oxidation.

Both of the falls are very scenic and popular among visitors, but Lower Falls is the most popular waterfall in the Yellowstone National Park. The Lower Falls is located to the east of Canyon Village and is a must-visit destination.

The Lower Falls is the biggest waterfall in the park, its height is 308 ft. Rangers of the park say that it’s more than twice the size of Niagara Falls. The amount of water flowing over the falls varies greatly depending on the season; it can be from 5.000 to 63.500 gallons per second.

Visitors can enjoy the views of the powerful waterfall from different trails and overlooks, from both the east and the west sides of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon.

The trails to the Brink of Upper Falls is about ¾ of a mile (roundtrip), but it is very steep, the trail drops more than 300 ft in 0.4 miles. It ends at an overlook at the top of the Upper Falls, providing fascinating views of the mighty waterfall and colorful and majestic canyon.

This trail is very popular, so expect crowds of tourist. Don’t think that it is a short and easy hike. Because of the elevation it can be very difficult and slow, especially on the way back. But beyond any tiny shade of a doubt it is a must-do hike, the view at the end are rewarding.

While hiking in the park, please, follow the rules and do not cause harm to the nature. Let’s save it for our future generations!

Photo: Roman Khomlyak

Photo Editing: Juliana Voitsikhovska

Information: Marina Petrova

Pictures taken: 29.06.2016