Canyons in Yellowstone National Park

Canyons in Yellowstone National Park are among the most dramatic and awe-inspiring features of the landscape, offering a glimpse into the park’s powerful geological history. These canyons were carved over millions of years by glaciers, volcanic activity, and the relentless erosive force of rivers and streams. Each canyon is unique in its character, depth, and surrounding ecosystem, and together they showcase the raw power of nature that shaped Yellowstone’s terrain. From the iconic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to the lesser-known but equally fascinating Black Canyon of the Yellowstone, these landscapes are both geological wonders and vital habitats for wildlife.

Named Canyons of Yellowstone National Park

Canyon Name	River/Creek that Formed It	Key Features
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone	Yellowstone River	Iconic canyon, 20 miles long, 1,200 feet deep; famous waterfalls (Upper & Lower Falls) and vibrant mineral colors.
Black Canyon of the Yellowstone	Yellowstone River	Rugged, narrow canyon near Gardiner; basalt cliffs and remote hiking opportunities.
Tower Fall Canyon	Tower Creek → Yellowstone River	Home to Tower Fall (132 ft); dramatic volcanic rock formations.
Lava Creek Canyon	Lava Creek	Exposed volcanic layers, accessible near Mammoth; geologic interest.
Gibbon River Canyon	Gibbon River	Scenic drive along the river; basalt cliffs and Gibbon Falls.
Lewis Canyon	Lewis River	Steep, narrow canyon south of Yellowstone Lake; near Lewis Falls.
Hellroaring Creek Canyon	Hellroaring Creek → Yellowstone River	Popular trail area; suspension bridge, rugged terrain, wildlife sightings.
Deep Creek Canyon	Deep Creek	Remote backcountry canyon; less-visited, rugged landscape.
Bear Creek Canyon	Bear Creek	Isolated canyon; excellent for wildlife viewing, especially bighorn sheep.
Cache Creek Canyon	Cache Creek	Wild, remote canyon; historic use by early explorers and trappers.
Lamar River Canyon	Lamar River	Scenic canyon in Lamar Valley; abundant wildlife including wolves and bison.
Gardner Canyon	Gardner River	Close to park’s north entrance; popular for fishing and scenic drives.
Otter Creek Canyon	Otter Creek	Lesser-known canyon; offers solitude and a sense of untouched wilderness.

The most celebrated of all is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, often considered the park’s crown jewel. This canyon stretches for roughly 20 miles and plunges to depths of 800 to 1,200 feet, with widths between a quarter and three-quarters of a mile. Its colorful walls, painted in shades of yellow, red, and pink, give the park its very name. The Lower Falls, at 308 feet, and the Upper Falls, at 109 feet, thunder down into this canyon, creating one of the most photographed and iconic scenes in Yellowstone. Overlooks like Artist Point, Lookout Point, and Inspiration Point allow visitors to marvel at its grandeur, while the trails along the canyon rim offer closer encounters with its breathtaking views.

Tower Fall Canyon is another remarkable site, distinguished by the 132-foot Tower Fall, where Tower Creek drops into the Yellowstone River. The canyon here is narrower than the Grand Canyon but equally dramatic, with its striking rock pinnacles, or “towers,” that inspired its name. These formations are remnants of volcanic processes, carved by erosion over millennia. The surrounding forested slopes and the view of the Yellowstone River winding through the canyon create a scene of both power and tranquility, attracting painters and photographers since the park’s early years.

Lava Creek Canyon tells a quieter story of Yellowstone’s volcanic history. Formed by the erosive power of Lava Creek and shaped by ancient lava flows, this canyon is more modest in scale but geologically significant. It serves as a reminder of the massive volcanic eruptions that created the Yellowstone Caldera and reshaped the landscape. Its rugged terrain and the presence of volcanic rock layers make it a natural classroom for understanding the park’s fiery past.

The Gibbon River Canyon offers another striking landscape as the Gibbon River cuts through ancient rock on its way toward the confluence with the Firehole River, forming the Madison River. The canyon is flanked by sheer walls and forested plateaus, creating a dramatic setting for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The river’s waterfalls and rapids add to the beauty, and the area provides important habitat for trout and other aquatic species. This canyon is also significant historically, as early explorers and visitors used the river corridor as a travel route through the park.

Lewis Canyon, formed by the Lewis River, is located in the southern part of the park. It is less visited than the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone but equally impressive in its ruggedness and solitude. The river has carved steep walls and a narrow channel through volcanic rock, creating a landscape that feels remote and wild. The canyon is surrounded by dense forests, and its relative inaccessibility makes it a haven for wildlife such as elk, moose, and even grizzly bears. For visitors seeking quieter, less crowded experiences, Lewis Canyon offers a striking glimpse of Yellowstone’s wilderness character.

Hellroaring Creek Canyon is another fascinating feature, shaped by the swift waters of Hellroaring Creek as it tumbles toward the Yellowstone River. The canyon is rugged and dramatic, with steep slopes and rocky outcroppings. It is popular among backcountry hikers and anglers, particularly because the creek is known for its excellent fishing. The name “Hellroaring” itself speaks to the loud, powerful rush of water that can be heard long before the canyon comes into view. The area also holds historical significance, as early trappers and explorers passed through this rugged terrain.

The Black Canyon of the Yellowstone is one of the park’s most remote and least visited canyons, offering solitude and breathtaking natural beauty. Carved by the Yellowstone River just north of the park’s boundary, this canyon features steep, dark volcanic rock walls that give it its name. Its isolation makes it a favorite for experienced hikers and backpackers who want to immerse themselves in Yellowstone’s wilderness. The river here is powerful and untamed, and the canyon serves as a reminder of the park’s wild, unspoiled character.

In addition to these well-known canyons, Yellowstone is home to several more that deserve recognition. The Yellowstone River Canyon near Gardiner forms a dramatic entrance to the park from the north. This smaller canyon showcases steep walls and provides a powerful introduction to the landscape that lies ahead.

The Lamar River Canyon winds through the famous Lamar Valley, an area celebrated for its wildlife. As the Lamar River narrows and cuts through the terrain, it creates a canyon that contrasts with the open valley meadows, adding depth and variety to this prime wolf- and bison-watching region.

Gardner River Canyon is another highlight near the park’s northern entrance. The Gardner River has carved a gorge through basalt rock, creating a dramatic landscape that also hosts the popular Boiling River hot spring, where geothermal water once mixed with the river’s cool flow before public access was restricted.

Firehole Canyon, located south of Madison, is a visitor favorite thanks to its striking lava walls and waterfalls along the Firehole River. The narrow canyon is particularly popular in summer because of the Firehole swimming area, where people could once wade into the river surrounded by towering cliffs and rushing water.

Nez Perce Creek Canyon offers a more subtle but equally important landscape. The creek cuts through meadows and geothermal areas, creating a narrow canyon that serves as a reminder of how smaller waterways also shape Yellowstone’s terrain.

Pelican Creek Canyon completes the collection. Located near Yellowstone Lake, Pelican Creek flows through a gorge surrounded by wetlands and forests. Its canyon may not be as deep as others, but it plays a crucial ecological role by supporting diverse wildlife, from waterfowl to bears that frequent the area during spawning runs.