The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is THE spot for taking the family photo that will be the cover image of your Yellowstone family memory book! This isn’t just another canyon – it’s a magical landscape that’ll have your kids talking about their adventure for years to come. If you only had one day in Yellowstone, this is a must-do.
Our Two Must-Do Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Stops: Family Photo and Edge of the Waterfall
Artist Point: The Family Photo Spot. Start Here
Listen up, parents – if you’re going to take ONE family picture in Yellowstone, this is where you do it! Artist Point gives you the most jaw-dropping panoramic view of the entire canyon. It’s basically nature’s most incredible photo backdrop.
Pro Mom Tip: There’s this awesome flat area near the top platform where our kids love to play. They spend time moving logs around, building “forest forts” while we’re trying to get that perfect family shot. Win-win! The view of the 308-foot Lower Falls in the background? Absolutely stunning.
- Instagram-worthy family photo location
- Safe viewing area for kids
- Minimal walking required
- Breathtaking canyon views
- Natural play area for restless kiddos
Brink of the Lower Falls Hike: Up Close and Personal with Nature
If you want to blow your kids’ minds, this is the hike. You’ll get right to the edge of the waterfall where they can feel the mist and hear the thunderous roar of the water. It’s like nature’s own sound and water park! There is a reason this is one of our favorite Yellowstone hikes with kids.
Hike Details:
- Length: 0.8 miles round trip
- Kid Factor: Awesome for ages 6 and up
- Cool Mom Advice: Prepare for some steep sections
What Makes It Amazing:
- Kids can feel waterfall mist
- Hear the incredible sound of rushing water
- Close-up waterfall experience
- Moderate challenge for adventure-loving families
Bonus Trail Option: North Rim Trail
Not sure if the Brink of the Lower Falls is right for your crew? The North Rim Trail offers a more accessible alternative that still delivers stunning canyon views.
Trail Highlights:
- Easier walking surface
- Multiple viewpoints
- Shorter distances
- Spectacular canyon views
- More gradual terrain
Pro Family Hiking Tips for Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon
- Start Early: Hit the trails in the morning when kids are fresh and energetic
- Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of kid-friendly, energy-boosting treats
- Bring Binoculars: Make wildlife and landscape viewing more exciting
- Use the Junior Ranger Program: Educational and fun for kids
- Dress in Layers: Yellowstone weather can change quickly
Final Family Adventure Thoughts
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone isn’t just a scenic location – it’s a classroom, a playground, and a memory-maker all in one. By choosing family-friendly trails like Artist Point and the Brink of the Lower Falls, you’re setting up an unforgettable adventure that will inspire a love of nature in your children.
Remember, the key is flexibility, patience, and embracing the wonder through your children’s eyes. Some of the best memories are made when you least expect them – perhaps while building a log fort at Artist Point or watching your child’s face light up at the thundering waterfall.
Pro Tip: Always check the National Park Service website for current trail conditions and any seasonal closures before your trip.
Happy exploring, park families!
This post was created in partnership with Parks with Kids. For more family travel adventures, visit parkswithkids.com.
