Looking for the Best Hiking Trails Yellowstone National Park has to offer? Look no further than one of the most popular national parks in the United States!
Yellowstone National Park boasts incredible natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities that are perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s something for everyone to explore on the hiking trails of Yellowstone National Park.
Plan Your Yellowstone Adventure: Tips for the Best Time to Visit, Where to Stay, and More
When planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, there are a few key highlights to keep in mind to make the most of your visit.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer is a great time to visit thanks to warm weather and all park amenities being open, but it is also the most crowded time of year. Avoid crowds by visiting in September or early October.
Where to Stay:
Yellowstone has eight lodges inside the park, plus several campgrounds. The Old Faithful Inn and Canyon Lodge are my favorites, both close to all the most popular places to see in the park. Outside the park, look for hotels in West Yellowstone, Montana.
How to Get There:
The closest airport is in West Yellowstone (WYS), serviced by both United and Delta Airlines. Other major airports in the region include Jackson Hole (JAC), Bozeman (BZN), and Salt Lake (SLC). Use Skyscanner to browse flights and find the best price.
How to Get Around:
The easiest way to get around Yellowstone is by car. Use Rentalcars to browse deals on rental cars or rent an RV or campervan with Outdoorsy.
Best Self-Guided Tour:
My favorite way to learn more about the park is with GyPSy Guides, a narrated self-guided tour perfect for road trips and scenic drives. The Yellowstone Guide and the Yellowstone/Grand Teton Bundle both provide incredible commentary and detail about the history and geology of Yellowstone.
Don’t Forget:
Be sure to get an America the Beautiful National Park Pass ahead of time. This $80 pass is valid for 12 months and get you into all 400+ national park sites (including both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park!).
Essential Tips for Hiking in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park offers over 1,000 miles of hiking trails that lead through some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. But, before hitting the trails, it’s crucial to know these essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Check the Weather Forecast
Yellowstone’s weather can change abruptly, and it’s important to be prepared for it. Check the weather forecast before you embark on a hike and dress accordingly. Even during summer, it’s recommended to carry layered clothing and waterproof gear.
Be Bear Aware
Yellowstone is home to grizzly and black bears, and it’s important to know how to behave in bear country. Carry bear spray, make noise as you hike, and hike in groups whenever possible. Refer to the park’s website for detailed information on bear safety.
Stay on Designated Trails
Hiking off-trail can damage fragile ecosystems and disturb wildlife. Stay on designated trails, even if they are muddy or snowy.
Pack Enough Water and Snacks
Dehydration and low blood sugar can quickly ruin a hiking trip. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Leave No Trace
Yellowstone is a pristine wilderness area, and it’s our responsibility to leave it that way. Pack out all trash and dispose of it properly. Use designated restrooms and avoid washing in streams or lakes.
Know Your Limits
Yellowstone’s trails range from easy to strenuous, and it’s essential to select a trail that matches your abilities. Don’t push yourself too hard, and be honest about your fitness level and experience.
By following these essential tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in Yellowstone National Park.
Top 7 Best Hiking Trails Yellowstone National Park
In this section, we’ll take a look at the top 7 best hike trails in Yellowstone National Park, and explore everything you need to know about each trail before you embark on your next outdoor adventure.
Mount Washburn Trail
- Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
- Distance: 6.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Starting Point: Dunraven Pass
The Mount Washburn Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park, and for good reason. This moderate hike offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as the chance to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and even grizzly bears. The trail starts at Dunraven Pass, which is located along the scenic Grand Loop Road, and climbs steadily to the summit of Mount Washburn, which stands at 10,243 feet.
The hike to the summit of Mount Washburn is 6.2 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 1,400 feet. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with switchbacks and occasional rocky sections. The hike typically takes 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and level of fitness.
As you climb higher on the Mount Washburn Trail, the views of the surrounding landscape become increasingly breathtaking. From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the park, including the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the Absaroka Range, and the Hayden Valley. On a clear day, it’s even possible to see the Grand Teton mountains in the distance.
In addition to the stunning views, the Mount Washburn Trail offers hikers the chance to spot a variety of wildlife. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are commonly seen along the trail, and grizzly bears have been spotted in the area as well. As with all hikes in Yellowstone National Park, it’s important to carry bear spray and know how to use it, as encounters with bears are possible.
The Mount Washburn Trail is typically open from mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the summit can be windy and cold even in the summer months. It’s important to carry plenty of water and snacks, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and let someone know your hiking plans before embarking on this scenic and rewarding hike.
The Mount Washburn Trail is a must-do hike for any visitor to Yellowstone National Park. With stunning views of the park and the chance to spot wildlife, this hike offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a moderate day hike, the Mount Washburn Trail is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Trail
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
- Distance: 6.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Starting Point: Canyon Village
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Trail is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park, and for a good reason. This trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon, which has been carved over the years by the Yellowstone River. The trailhead is located near the Canyon Village, and hikers can start by following the South Rim Trail or the North Rim Trail, both of which offer panoramic views of the canyon and the river below.
The South Rim Trail is the more popular of the two options, and it offers hikers stunning views of the park’s famous Lower Falls or Lower Yellowstone Falls. The trail starts at the South Rim Trailhead and descends steeply towards the canyon floor. Along the way, hikers can stop at several vantage points to take in the breathtaking scenery and snap some photos. Once at the bottom of the canyon, hikers can explore the surrounding forest and spot wildlife such as black bears and elk.
The North Rim Trail, on the other hand, is less crowded but offers equally stunning views of the canyon. The trail starts at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Trailhead and follows a relatively flat path towards the canyon’s edge. Once at the rim, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and the river below, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife such as bison and bald eagles.
Overall, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Trail is a must-do for hikers visiting Yellowstone National Park. This trail offers some of the most breathtaking views in the park, and hikers can explore the surrounding forest and spot wildlife along the way. Whether you choose the South Rim Trail or the North Rim Trail, you’re in for a memorable hiking experience.
Mystic Falls Trail
- Elevation Gain: 150 feet
- Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Starting Point: Biscuit Basin
The Mystic Falls Trail in Yellowstone National Park is a wonderful option for hikers looking for a relatively short and easy hike that still offers breathtaking views of the park’s natural beauty. This trail is located in the picturesque Biscuit Basin area and offers visitors the chance to witness the gorgeous Mystic Falls, which cascades down a 70-foot rock face and creates a stunning display of mist and spray.
Hikers will start the Mystic Falls Trail from the Biscuit Basin parking lot and head through the surrounding forest, where they may encounter a variety of wildlife such as moose and elk. As the trail progresses, the sounds of water can be heard in the distance, building anticipation for the eventual reveal of Mystic Falls.
Upon reaching the waterfall, hikers will be mesmerized by the beauty of the falls and the surrounding area. There are several viewing platforms that offer a variety of perspectives for hikers to take in the views and snap some incredible photos.
Although the Mystic Falls Trail is considered an easy hike, it still provides a moderate workout due to its slightly uphill and downhill terrain. The total distance of the trail is 2.5 miles round trip, which can be completed in approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the pace of the hiker.
Overall, the Mystic Falls Trail is an excellent choice for hikers of all skill levels, as it provides a glimpse of some of Yellowstone’s most beautiful features without requiring too much time or effort. It’s also an ideal hike for families with children, as the shorter distance and relatively flat terrain make it accessible for all ages. With its stunning views, cascading waterfall, and potential wildlife sightings, the Mystic Falls Trail is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Yellowstone National Park.
Lamar Valley Trail
- Elevation Gain: 550 feet
- Distance: 6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Starting Point: Lamar Valley
The Lamar Valley Trail is a great option for hikers looking to immerse themselves in the rich wildlife of Yellowstone National Park. This trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to spot a diverse range of animals, including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears, in their natural habitat. The Lamar Valley is a vast and expansive landscape that has remained relatively unchanged for thousands of years, providing a glimpse into the past and the natural world as it was meant to be.
The trailhead for the Lamar River Trail is located near the Lamar Ranger Station, and hikers can choose to either take a leisurely stroll or embark on a longer hike through the valley. The trail winds its way through rolling hills and grassy meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
As you make your way through the Lamar Valley, keep an eye out for the park’s iconic bison herds. These majestic creatures can often be spotted grazing in the open fields, and their sheer size and power are sure to leave a lasting impression.
But it’s not just bison that make the Lamar Valley such a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Wolves, bears, and coyotes are also known to roam the area, and with a bit of luck and patience, hikers may be able to spot these elusive creatures in the wild.
In addition to the abundant wildlife, the Lamar River Trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The valley is surrounded by towering mountains and deep canyons, providing a stunning backdrop for your hike.
For those looking to extend their hike, the Lamar River Trail connects to several other trails in the area, including the Specimen Ridge Trail and the Pebble Creek Trail. These trails offer additional opportunities to explore the park’s diverse landscape and wildlife.
Overall, the Lamar Valley Trail is a must-do for anyone visiting Yellowstone National Park. With its unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities and stunning scenery, this trail is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who venture into the Lamar Valley.
Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail
- Elevation Gain: 105 feet
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Starting Point: Fairy Falls Trailhead
The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most iconic attractions in Yellowstone National Park and for good reasons. This stunning natural wonder is the largest hot spring in the United States and its vibrant colors of blue, green, orange and yellow make it a must-see for visitors. To experience the full beauty of the spring, hiking the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail is an absolute must.
The Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail is a short, easy hike that is accessible to hikers of all skill levels. The trail is located in the Midway Geyser Basin and offers stunning views of the spring from above. Hikers can take in the full scope of the spring’s colors and the steam rising from the water.
The trailhead for the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail is located off of the Grand Loop Road, just south of the Midway Geyser Basin parking area. The trail is approximately 0.6 miles (1 km) long and has an elevation gain of about 105 feet (32 m). While the trail is short, it can be steep in some areas, so hikers should be prepared with appropriate footwear and take caution on the trail.
Once at the overlook, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Grand Prismatic Spring and the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, visitors can truly appreciate the size and beauty of the spring. The steam rising from the water creates a misty atmosphere that adds to the surreal experience of the hike.
The Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail is a popular hike, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds. It’s also important to note that there are no restrooms or water sources on the trail, so hikers should come prepared with plenty of water and to use restroom facilities before starting the hike.
In addition to the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Midway Geyser Basin is home to several other geothermal features, including the Excelsior Geyser and the Turquoise Pool. Visitors to the area can explore these attractions by taking the boardwalk trail through the basin.
Overall, the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail is an other must-do hike for anyone visiting Yellowstone National Park. Its short distance and easy accessibility make it a great option for hikers of all skill levels, while its breathtaking views make it a highlight of any visit to the park. So, don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the memories of this incredible experience!
Electric Peak Trail
- Elevation Gain: 3,500 feet
- Distance: 20 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Starting Point: Pebble Creek Campground
The Electric Peak Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that leads to the summit of Electric Peak, which is the highest peak in the Gallatin Range at 10,969 feet. The trailhead is located near the Mammoth Hot Springs area, and the hike is considered strenuous, with an elevation gain of 5,000 feet over a distance of 20.6 miles round trip. The hike typically takes 1-3 days to complete, depending on your pace and level of fitness.
Despite the challenging nature of the hike, the Electric Peak Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Gallatin Range, the Lamar Valley, and the Yellowstone River. Along the way, hikers will pass through a variety of terrain, from alpine meadows to rocky switchbacks to scree fields near the summit.
Hikers may also spot a variety of wildlife on the Electric Peak Trail, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, and black bears. As with all hikes in Yellowstone National Park, it’s important to carry bear spray and know how to use it, as encounters with bears are possible.
The Electric Peak Trail is typically open from mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions. You should be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the summit can be windy and cold even in the summer months. It’s important to carry plenty of water and snacks, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and let someone know your hiking plans before embarking on this challenging but rewarding hike.
The Electric Peak Trail is a must-do hike for experienced hikers looking for a challenge and stunning views of the Gallatin Range and surrounding landscape. With proper preparation and a sense of adventure, hikers can summit Electric Peak and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Lower Falls Trail
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Starting Point: Uncle Tom’s Trailhead or Brink of the Lower Falls Trailhead
The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River is one of the most popular attractions in Yellowstone National Park, and for good reason. With a drop of over 300 feet, the Lower Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the park. The Lower Falls Trail is a moderate hike that leads to the brink of the falls, offering hikers stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding canyon.
The trail starts at either Uncle Tom’s Trailhead or Brink of the Lower Falls Trailhead, both located on the south rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. From Uncle Tom’s Trailhead, the trail descends a series of stairs to the canyon floor, where it joins with the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail. From there, the trail follows the canyon rim, offering hikers breathtaking views of the canyon and the falls.
As hikers make their way along the trail, they’ll also have the chance to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep and elk, as well as a variety of bird species. The trail is especially popular during the summer months when the falls are at their fullest and the canyon is in full bloom.
At the end of the trail, hikers will reach the brink of the Lower Falls, where they can enjoy stunning views of the waterfall as it cascades down into the canyon below. For those looking for a longer hike, there’s an option to continue down to the base of the falls via the Uncle Tom’s Trail, which is a steep series of stairs that descends 500 feet to the base of the falls.
Overall, the Lower Falls Trail is a must-do for hikers visiting Yellowstone National Park. With its stunning views of the falls and the surrounding canyon, as well as its opportunities for wildlife spotting, it’s no wonder that this trail is one of the most popular in the park.
Other Noteworthy Spots in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a vast and beautiful park with plenty of amazing sights and natural wonders to explore. In addition to the top 7 hiking trails, there are several other noteworthy spots worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Heart Lake – If you’re looking for a serene and peaceful spot to relax, Heart Lake is a must-visit. This lake is located in the southern part of the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s also a great spot for fishing and camping.
- Trout Lake – Located in the northeast corner of the park, Trout Lake is a crystal-clear lake that’s perfect for fishing and wildlife viewing. It’s surrounded by lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the Absaroka Mountains.
- Ribbon Lake – This long and narrow lake is located in the backcountry of Yellowstone National Park and can be accessed via a hike. It’s a popular spot for fishing and camping, and the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape makes it a great spot for photography.
- Shoshone Lake – Shoshone Lake is one of the largest backcountry lakes in the United States, and it’s only accessible via a hike or a kayak trip. It’s surrounded by dense forests and is a great spot for fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- Clear Lake – Located near the West Thumb Geyser Basin, Clear Lake is a pristine lake with crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for fishing and hiking, and the surrounding area offers stunning views of the park’s geothermal features.
- Firehole River – The Firehole River is a must-see spot in Yellowstone National Park, especially for fishing enthusiasts. It’s known for its abundance of trout, and the surrounding forests and hot springs make it a picturesque spot for hiking and photography.
- Yellowstone Lake – As the largest body of water in Yellowstone National Park, Yellowstone Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping. It’s surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a great spot for watching wildlife.
- Upper Geyser Basin – The Upper Geyser Basin is home to some of the park’s most famous geysers, including Old Faithful. It’s a must-see spot for anyone visiting Yellowstone National Park, and the geothermal features make it a unique and memorable experience.
- Storm Point – Located near the eastern entrance of the park, Storm Point is a beautiful hiking spot that offers stunning views of Yellowstone Lake. It’s a great spot for photography and wildlife viewing, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot for relaxation.
- Avalanche Peak – For experienced hikers, Avalanche Peak is a challenging but rewarding trail that offers breathtaking views of the park’s surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot for photography and is a must-visit for anyone seeking adventure in Yellowstone National Park.
- Bunsen Peak – Bunsen Peak is another challenging but rewarding hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a great spot for hiking and photography, and the scenic beauty of the area makes it a popular spot for visitors.
- Tower Fall – Tower Fall is a stunning waterfall that’s located near the northeastern entrance of the park. It’s a great spot for photography and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
- Observation Point – Observation Point is a popular hiking spot that offers breathtaking views of the park’s geothermal features, including Old Faithful. It’s a great spot for photography and is a unique and memorable experience.
- Lone Star Geyser – Lone Star Geyser is located in the southwestern part of the park and is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in geothermal features. It erupts every three hours and offers a stunning display of water and steam.
By exploring these other noteworthy spots in Yellowstone National Park, you can experience the park’s diverse and stunning landscape while enjoying a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to wildlife viewing and photography.
Conclusion
Yellowstone National Park offers some of the best hiking trails in the world. From the stunning views of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to the colorful hot springs of the Midway Geyser Basin, there is something for every type of hiker. The top 10 best hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park offer a range of difficulty levels, from easy hikes suitable for families with children to challenging hikes for experienced hikers.
Before embarking on any hiking trail in Yellowstone National Park, it’s important to be prepared. Always check the weather forecast, carry plenty of water and snacks, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and let someone know your hiking plans. With proper preparation and a sense of adventure, you can experience the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park on foot and create memories that will last a lifetime.
To enhance your hiking experience at Yellowstone National Park, consider checking out these helpful resources:
- “The Top 10 Best Hiking Trails on Maui” – Looking for more hiking trails to explore? Check out our list of the top 10 best hiking trails on Maui for inspiration and adventure.
- “7 Things to Consider When Planning a Trip” – Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but with these seven helpful tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
By using these resources, you can make the most out of your hiking trip to Yellowstone National Park and create unforgettable memories.
