Artist Point — Attraction in West Yellowstone

Artist Point offers a further view of the 308-foot Lower Falls than you will get from the pullouts along the north rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, but here you can see in all its glory the beginnings of the canyon, its many colors, and the waterfall that pours into its immense beauty.

This area is open from about mid-April (the photos you see here) until the first weekend in November. and during peak season is so crowded that you may have trouble parking. However, if you can, the walk is short, though there are backcountry trails from here. You can also reach it by hiking along the south rim trail, which offers more views of the falls. You can most easily get to this trail on the Upper Falls parking lot. However, obviously, most people drive to the Artist Point parking area.

You will not find flush toilets (there are outhouses), though you are not a far drive back to Canyon Village.

The area gets its name from a famous painting from 1871, "The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone" by Thomas Moran, a painting that helped convince Congress to legislate Yellowstone as the world's first national park on March 1, 1872. It is thought that the painting derives from this spot, though a close look at the painting suggests he created it from several angles and not simply from this point.

Nevertheless, pictures do not do the beauty of the spot or its immensity justice. Indeed, a painting from here may do better to show the stunning display of colors, the steam in places coming from the canyon walls, the Yellowstone River flowing narrowly through the channel. It is indeed an artist's dream.

The canyon is my favorite place in all of Yellowstone. Come see the place that even more than the geysers and Old Faithful convinced powerful men to set it aside in an age when nearly every inch of land that could be exploited for its resourcess was. Here, thank goodness, the sheer wonder of the place was...

Artist Point at Yellowstone's canyon is a truly breathtaking natural wonder that lives up to its "postcard photograph" reputation. This is a stunning, awe-inspiring piece of nature that is well worth the visit, despite the crowds. The depth is simply amazing, with strange colors and alien-like rock formations that make for a visual feast. There are multiple viewpoints to explore, which can be accessed by walking the clean, well-maintained trails and stairs or by driving to different parking areas.

Be prepared for a very popular destination; the parking lots can be full, so arriving early in the morning is highly recommended. Not only will you beat the traffic and find a more peaceful experience, but you'll also catch the canyon in a stunning golden light as the sun rises, providing incredible opportunities for photography.

The Lower Falls is a particularly impressive sight, and it’s noted that there are actually two waterfalls in the area to discover. From the short, easy walk to the viewpoint, you can take in the breathtaking views, and even spot steam vents emerging from the canyon walls. Bird watchers will also find plenty of avian activity to enjoy. This location is every bit as inspiring as the more famous Old Faithful, without the long wait for the...

This is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Yellowstone Park. The colors created with different minerals and erosion are incredible. The formations here are equally as striking. The hot water and gases break down the rock and soil here, to form this spectacular canyon, in an almost one of a kind type of erosion. Do not skip this spot over. Although the brink of the Lower Falls, of the Yellowstone, is on the North side, the South rim is the better veiws over all, which is where Artist Point is. The veiws of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone are better aligned on the South rim. Even if it looks crowded go to this spot, there is plenty of parking and space on the walkways to accommodate the people. Also bring binoculars if you have them in vehicle. Most people always do bring their camera, but make sure you...