Are dogs allowed on Uncle Tom's Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Uncle Tom's Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Uncle Tom's Trail?

No, Uncle Tom's Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Uncle Tom's Trail?

Uncle Tom's Trail is rated moderate. It is 0.8 miles long with 499 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Uncle Tom's Trail?

Uncle Tom's Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

This trail is currently closed

Verify current status with the land manager before visiting.

See Wyoming trail conditions

Status updated 05/29/2026

1 / 5

ModerateOut and Back

Yellowstone National Park/Wyoming

Uncle Tom's Trail

Canyon Village, Wyoming

0.8 mi

Distance

499 ft

Elev. Gain

31m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Generated from trail data

Steel staircase (328 steps) descending into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone for close-up views of the thundering 308-foot Lower Falls.

Trail Conditions

Closed

Updated 3 weeks ago

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weatherUneven terrain

Elevation Profile

Min:7,700 ft

Max:8,175 ft

475 ft

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:307-344-7381
Address:2 Officers Row, Yellowstone National Park Headquarters · Yellowstone National Park, WY · 82190

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

Lower Falls close-upGrand Canyon of the YellowstoneSteel staircaseMist and rainbows

Reviews

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Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Hand-curated

This trail is currently closed

Uncle Tom's Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

Nearby Trails

Mount Washburn Trail

Gibbon Falls

Bunsen Peak

Lamar Valley Trail

Fairy Falls Trail

Lone Star Geyser Trail

Other trails in Yellowstone National Park

Fairy Falls Trail

Mount Washburn Trail

Lamar Valley Trail

Bunsen Peak

Lone Star Geyser Trail

Gibbon Falls

Campgrounds near this trail

Canyon Campground

4R1 Back country campsite

4R2 Back country campsite

Backcountry Cascade Lake site 4E4

4c3

Clear Creek Outhouse

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