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Point Sublime

View from Point Sublime
The Yellowstone River flowing downstream into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River below Point Sublime. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Point Sublime is lookout along the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River at the end of a 1 mile (one way) trail along the South Rim of the canyon. With exceptional views along the way at every turn, the trail meanders along the rim easily, with only a few steep but short climbs as it wraps around Inspiration Point on the opposite rim.


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Point Sublime Trail Description

The Point Sublime Trail begins at the east end (back) of the Artist Point Lookout along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. From here, it weaves in and out of the forest, frequently emerging where the treeline hits the rim of the canyon, exposing hikers to dramatic and sweeping views.

Interspersed along the mostly easy-going trail are a few relatively steep but short climbs that will gradually bring you up nearly 200 feet in elevation over the course of the 1 mile. The trail is very easy to follow, and only has one other junction, which comes roughly halfway in. This is an optional trail which can be taken to add some extra mileage to a nearby lake, or simply continue straight ahead to keep moving to Point Sublime.

Point Sublime itself is a remarkable view of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Panoramic views both up and down the canyon treat visitors to undisturbed and serene views of one of the geologic highlights of Yellowstone National Park. Upstream, the colorful canyon bends into the more easily accessed areas, while downstream the canyon winds and recedes to limitless depths as the river flows northward. Enjoy the view area as long as you’d like, then head back out the same way you came in.

Getting There

From Canyon Village, head south along the main loop for 2.3 miles, and turn left onto South Rim Drive. Continue straight for about 1.5 miles until the road dead-ends at a large parking area for Artist Point, and find the trailhead at the back of the Artist Point Lookout.

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