Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River

A Youthful Glow

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River was born thousands of years ago, but is till young in geologic time.

After Yellowstone’s most recent icecap melted about 14,000 years ago, the Yellowstone River began excavating old rhyolitic lava flows. With help from wind, rain, and gravity, the river is still carving today.

The canyon’s color and texture are also changing. Heat and gases from Yellowstone’s volcano flow through the rock, transforming it from buff, pink, and grey to golden and ruddy hues, and softening the rock, making it more carvable.

Welcome to Inspiration Point

Trail to Inspiration Point

Step just below the canyon rim by following the path to the Inspiration Point overlook. Be prepared for more than 50 steps to the viewpoint, and an uphill return.

Alternate Viewpoint

If you prefer, you can view the canyon’s radiant colors and glimpse Lower Falls from the walkway beside the parking area.

Stay safe! Do not leave trails or overlooks!

(sidebar)

The place where I obtained the best…view of the canyon was a narrow projecting point [Inspiration Point] situated two or three miles below the lower fall. Standing there, or rather lying there for greater safety, I thought how utterly impossible it would be to describe to another the sensation inspired by such a presence. As I took in this scene, I realized my own littleness, my helplessness, my dread exposure to destruction, my inability to cope or even comprehend the mighty architecture of nature.

Nathaniel P. Langford, 1870

The Discovery of Yellowstone Park

This exhibit made possible by a generous grant from The Yellowstone Association

Marker can be reached from Inspiration Point 0.8 miles east of Grand Loop Road.

Courtesy hmdb.org

Credits and Sources: