If you plan to hike overnight in the backcountry be sure to pick up a backcountry permit at the Ranger Station. While there you can also obtain the latest trail information and advice regarding the adequacy of your equipment for the trip. For longer trips you should purchase a USGS topographic map of the park. These are available at any Visitor Center. Permits should be obtained before 5 p.m.
Most trails in Yellowstone are marked with orange or yellow metal tags tacked to trees or posts. In wooded sections the tags are fairly small (about 3×5 inches); in meadows they are larger (about 8 inches square).
Please STAY ON THE TRAILS. Getting lost in Yellowstone is no laughing matter.
The Canyon area, like all of Yellowstone, is grizzly bear country. The backcountry traveler always runs some risk of an encounter with a bear. To reduce this risk, make noise as you hike through areas where you might accidentally startle a bear. Whistle, or attach a bell to your pack.
In season, guided horseback trips are regularly taken on some of the Canyon area trails. In addition there are many pleasant half day and full day rides that can be arranged. The saddle horse concession is located 1½ miles south of Canyon Junction on the Lake-Canyon road. Should you wish to bring in your own stock you should write the Chief Ranger well in advance of your trip for particulars. If you intend to keep your animals overnight in any of the developed areas they must be boarded at the horse concession since there are no combined facilities for grazing and camping.
On the road in Yellowstone you are on the threshold to wilderness. Plan your off-the-road, wilderness trips with care. Savor the best that your National Park has to offer—its backcountry. Please take only pictures—let no one regret that you walked here.
Trail from Grandview to “P” Loop Cabin Area—Park at either end of the trail. About ½ mile in length, this paved trail is especially pleasant in the early morning.
Trail to the Brink of the Upper Falls—Park at the Upper Falls parking area. This is a very short (⅛ mile) walk to the lip of the 109 foot Upper Falls.
Trail to the Brink of the Lower Falls—Park at the southernmost parking area on the North Rim Drive. The short (⅜ mile) walk along a paved trail drops about 600 feet into the Canyon to the brink of the 308 foot Lower Falls.