Pros & cons
PROS
- Face-on, closer-than-Artist Point view of Lower Falls
- Mid-morning rainbow is common on clear days
CONS
- Steep stair climb back up
- Parking fills by late morning
Overview
Red Rock Point drops you below the North Rim for a near head-on look at the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. It’s louder, closer, and more dramatic than the rim overlooks above—expect mist, the thrum of water, and big canyon views. Many visitors find it less congested than the drive-up viewpoints, with a payoff that belies the short distance.
Trail Details
This is a short, steep out-and-back spur from the North Rim near Lookout Point. It’s roughly 0.6 miles round-trip with about 246 feet of elevation gain, packed into switchbacks and a flight of stairs. Surfaces are mixed (including paved sections) and can be slick when wet or icy. Plan 30–60 minutes, more if you’re stopping for photos. No pets allowed.
What You’ll See
From the lower platform you get the classic, almost face-on composition of the Lower Falls pouring into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. On clear days, a rainbow often arcs in the mist around mid‑morning. Late spring runoff amps up the roar and spray, making the scene especially dramatic.
Best Time to Visit
- May through October is the typical season.
- Arrive early to snag parking and enjoy calmer conditions; mid‑morning light can produce that rainbow.
- Weekdays beat weekends for crowd levels.
- Late spring (snowmelt) showcases the falls at their most powerful.
Planning & Logistics
- Access the spur from the Lookout Point parking area on North Rim Drive; spaces are limited and fill by late morning.
- There’s no water, food, or formal picnic area at the overlook. Bring water and sun/wind layers.
- No dedicated restroom at Red Rock Point; the most reliable flush restrooms are at Canyon Village. Some North Rim lots may have seasonal vault toilets, but don’t count on them early or late in the season.
- Trekking poles and sturdy footwear help on the steep return. The park cautions this route for those with heart or respiratory issues due to the stairs.
Pair It With
If you’ve got the legs and time, combine Red Rock Point with nearby Lookout Point and Brink of the Lower Falls for three distinct perspectives on the same waterfall.
Where it is
44.7208, -110.4924Tips for Red Rock Point
- 01Park at Lookout Point and start down the signed spur; go early for parking.
- 02Aim for mid‑morning on a clear day to catch a rainbow in the mist.
- 03Bring trekking poles and grippy shoes; the return climb is steep and can be slick.
- 04Late spring snowmelt delivers the most powerful waterfall views.
- 05Carry water and layers—there’s no water, food, or shelter at the point.
Amenities
Near Red Rock Point
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayRed Rock Point TrailShort, steep stair climb to a head-on Lower Falls roarModerate · 0.7 mi · 30 min
0.2 mi awayCanyon Lookout PointHead-on Lower Falls view framed by vivid canyon wallsParking · Scenic Viewpoint
0.2 mi awayLookout Point TrailShortest, best head-on view of Lower Falls on the North RimEasy · 0.2 mi · 15 min
0.3 mi awayBrink of the Lower Falls TrailShort, steep paved drop to stand at the roaring brink of Lower FallsModerate · 0.7 mi · 30 min
0.3 mi awayBrink of the Lower FallsStand beside the 308-foot drop as it thunders into the canyonTrailhead · Parking
0.3 mi awayLower Yellowstone FallsYellowstone River’s 308‑foot plunge framed by a painted canyonParking · Scenic Viewpoint
0.4 mi awayGrand Canyon of the YellowstoneColor-splashed canyon with classic views of thundering Lower FallsScenic Viewpoint · Parking
0.5 mi awayClear Lake TrailShort loop mixing lakes, meadows, canyon views, and hot springsEasy · 4.6 mi · 2.5 hr
