The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, waterfalls and rainbows

Before we look at all the things to do in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, here are a few brief notes on its history and geological interest. The genesis of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone dates back 640,000 years, when a violent volcanic eruption emptied its magma, spreading volcanic ash over several thousand kilometres.

In addition to the volcanic activity on the rhyolitic rocks, there was also the erosive action of the Yellowstone River, which over time helped to carve out the canyon.

The different shades of colour that can be seen on the canyon rock are due to the hydrothermal alteration processes to which the rhyolite is subjected. The walls range in colour from brown to violet, from yellow to green and from dark orange to red. This process, along with weathering, is still occurring and continues to shape the great painting of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

The South Rim Trail starts at the Wapiti Lake Trailhead. This trail follows the South Rim through the woods from Chittenden Bridge to Artist Point. You can hike all the way to the end to take in the various views of the canyon. Other hikes are accessible to all, such as the Uncle's Tom Trail, which also starts at the South Rim Trail. The trail descends into the heart of the canyon and offers incredible views of Yellowstone's lower falls. On the way back up, you come across the viewpoint of the Upper Falls, which also offers a view of the old canyon bridge.

At the end of the South Rim Trail is Artist Point, one of the best vantage points for photographing the jagged, wooded walls of the Grand Canyon, Lower Falls and river. There are two platforms from which to admire the panorama.

Tip: depending on the weather conditions, it is possible to see a rainbow over the lower falls from Artist Point. In general, this little phenomenon takes place on sunny mornings between 9.45 and 10am!

Before heading out onto the North Rim Drive (where the most remarkable viewpoints are to be found), the Brink of Upper Falls comes into view and travellers are almost at the top of the waterfall. This viewpoint can also be reached on foot, starting at the Chittenden Bridge along the North Rim Trail. This first section also passes over the picturesque Canyon Bridge.

The North Rim Drive starts from the Chittenden Bridge, just after the fork in the road leading to the edge of the Upper Falls. The first stop is unforgettable thanks to the Brink of Lower Falls Trail, which gives a real sense of the impressive flow of this waterfall, which falls 200 metres.

Next stop: the Lookout Point Trail, an easy path leading to an observation point above the Lower Falls. Next, hikers can easily reach Red Rock Point via a descent. At the bottom is a platform overlooking the falls in all their glory, with the roar of the water.

Still on the Nord Rim Trail, you then approach Grand View, whose Grand View Point offers a fascinating perspective of the river as it winds its way around the walls of the red canyon.

You can then drive to Canyon Village. On the way there is a sign for Inspiration Point, which offers an elevated, panoramic view of the canyon. The road then heads towards a bizarre geological treasure: Glacial Boulder, a huge boulder detached from the Beartooth plateau.

For the less sporty or traveller in a hurry, it's possible to opt for a guided tour lasting a few hours to discover all the best viewpoints of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The tour starts from the town of Jackson or from Teton Village (Grand Teton). In addition to the full panoramic itinerary (canyon and waterfalls), the tour also takes in the Hayden Valley, where you can see some of the park's wildlife, including bears.