The Steep And Challenging Hike Down Uncle Tom's Trail In Wyoming Will Test Your Bravery
By Kim Magaraci|Published January 23, 2021
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Kim Magaraci
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Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
Hiking in Yellowstone National Park is like experience a whole new world. Take the steep, challenging, and sometimes scary trek down Uncle Tom’s Trail to see what many people consider to be the best hike in Yellowstone.
If you want an unforgettable up-close peek at the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River as it tumbles down into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, you've got to work up the courage to hike Uncle Tom's Trail.
It's just over half a mile to the bottom and back, but you'll be working hard to get there, and to get back up! Anyone who is afraid of heights may have a hard time climbing down into the canyon.
Many people will tell you that this is the best hike in Yellowstone National Park. Keep your wits about you, and follow all of the rules about where and when to hike. One slip can send you falling into the canyon below.
Uncle Tom's Trail was established around 1900, by Tom Richardson, who was permitted by the park to bring visitors along this way. It quickly became a popular way to see the 300' tall Lower Falls.
The steep stairway that brings you down to an amazing view of the Lower Falls is now maintained by the National Park Service, but that does not mean treks are without risk!
Do you agree that Uncle Tom’s Trail is the best hike in Yellowstone? If not, what do you think is? Mt. Washburn may be my favorite… but it’s so hard to choose. Let’s talk Yellowstone hikes in the comments below!
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