Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(1.6) The side road ends at
Artist Point**,
a must-see for the full effect of the colorful
canyon and Lower Falls. Although every book about Yellowstone describes or pictures this
wonderful vista, there's no substitute for standing here yourself. Absorb the unbelievable col-
oring of the rocks, the depth of the canyon, the grace of the falls with their faint roar nearly a
mile away, and the thrill of the rushing river below you. Even the attractive stonework dating
from 1938 adds to the beauty of the place.
Artist Point was probably named by park photographer F. J. Haynes for the painter Thomas
Moran—or even for himself!
If you think you see steam in the canyon from several viewpoints, you're not mistaken.
There are several hot springs, perpetual spouters, and geysers below you.
Lower Falls on the Yellowstone River is by far the most often photographed of Yellowstone's many wa-
terfalls.
Part of the
South Rim Trail
east from Artist Point reveals some of the most awe-inspiring
sunset colors you will see anywhere, with the sky and canyon rivaling each other on a beauti-
ful evening. The NPS warns hikers of uneven footing and steep drop-offs here; it is also nar-
row and sometimes slippery. This trail cannot be recommended to casual walkers.
Hikers prepared for backcountry conditions can continue on to a view of the many pin-
nacles historically called Castle Ruins and also to Point Sublime. The trail turns south before
