Brink of Lower Falls

<br> <b>Sculpting Lower Falls</b><br><br> Reaching the Brink of Lower Falls overlook requires hiking a steep trail that winds down the canyon wall…a wall of hardened rhyolite lava…a wall exposed by the Yel1owstone River while excavating the canyon.<br><br> Below Lower Falls, volcanic heat and gases soften the rhyolite rock. The river carves more quickly there than upstream&#8212;sculpting a ledge and creating a waterfall.<br><br> <b>Welcome to Brink of Lower falls</b><br><br> The steep, winding path to the Brink of Lower Falls overlook descends very rapidly about 600 feet (180 m) in 3/8 mile (0.6 km). You will encounter very steep grades, slippery gravel, and rough surfaces. Wear sturdy walking shoes with good tread. Take plenty of water with you.<br><br> At the brink, you will have a "bird's eye" view of the Yellowstone river thundering over the edge.<br><br> The return trip is a steep difficult, uphill climb. Allow plenty of time to rest as you enjoy your surroundings.<br><br> Stay safe! Do not leave designated trails ofr overlooks!<br><br> <i>(sidebar)</i><br> At the edge there is a flash of diamond and emerald, then the whole descending surface breaks into a tissue of frosted silver, and with a tremendous roar, re-echoed from the huge cliffs of the Canyon, becomes mixed with the iridescent cloud of spray which fills the hollow.<br><br> Thomas Henry Thomas, 1884<br><br> <small>This exhibit made possible by a generous grant from The Yellowstone Association</small>