• What is Yellowstone National Park known for?
    • Yellowstone is considered one of the most beautiful parks in the country, offering breathtaking views and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels.
  • Is Yellowstone a good destination for hikers?
    • Yes! Yellowstone is a hiker’s paradise, whether you are a beginner, an adrenaline junkie, hiking with kids, a dog, or alone.
  • Are the views in Yellowstone spectacular?
    • Absolutely! No matter where you look, the views are stunning, with breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic trails.
  • What are some popular hiking trails in Yellowstone?
    • Yellowstone offers a variety of hiking trails, including:
      • Uncle Tom’s Trail – Features steps for climbing up and down.
      • Fairy Falls Trail – Leads to a magnificent waterfall.
      • Bunsen Peak Trail – A challenging trail that requires serious climbing skills, gaining over 1,200 feet in elevation.

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1. Lava Creek Trail


Hike volcanic terrain and discover exciting geothermal features on a scenic trek.

Lava Creek Trail

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  • What is Lava Creek Trail?
    • Lava Creek Trail is an 8.4-mile both-ways trail in Yellowstone that is considered moderately difficult and is very popular among hikers.
  • Should I expect crowds on Lava Creek Trail?
    • Yes, the trail is very popular, so expect to encounter other hikers, especially during peak seasons.
  • When is Lava Creek Trail accessible?
    • The trail runs at a fairly low elevation and is mostly downhill, which makes it snow-free earlier than many other trails, making it a great early spring hike.
  • What are some key highlights of Lava Creek Trail?
    • The trail follows the Gardner River and offers scenic views of:
      • The 60-foot Undine Falls
      • The magnificent Lava Creek Canyon
      • The Mammoth Hot Spring Terraces in the distance
  • What kind of wildlife can be seen along the trail?
    • It is common to spot:
      • Buffalo
      • White-tailed deer
      • Black bears
      Hikers should always stay alert and practice wildlife safety.
  • Is horseback riding allowed on Lava Creek Trail?
    • Yes, the trail is also used by horseback riders.
  • Where is the Lava Creek Trailhead located?
    • The trailhead is located on the Mammoth to Tower Road at the Lava Creek Picnic Area.

2. Mount Washburn Trail


Climb the peak and enjoy panoramic views of Yellowstone's rugged landscape.

Mount Washburn Trail

© lakephotography/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Mount Washburn Trail?
    • Mount Washburn Trail is one of two main trails leading to the 10,243-foot summit of Mount Washburn. The two routes are the Chittenden Road Trail and the Mount Washburn South Trail.
  • Which route is more popular?
    • The Mount Washburn Trail, which begins at Dunraven Pass, is more popular because it offers scenic twists and turns and fantastic views along the way.
  • What is the elevation gain on the Mount Washburn Trail?
    • The trail gradually ascends 1,300 feet along an old road bed, making for a steady but manageable climb.
  • What kind of scenery can hikers expect?
    • The trail mostly passes through open fields filled with wildflowers and offers breathtaking views of:
      • The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
      • Yellowstone Lake
      • Hayden Valley
  • How difficult is the Mount Washburn Trail?
    • The trail is considered moderately difficult, making it a great option for hikers looking for a challenge without extreme difficulty.
  • Is the trail usually crowded?
    • Unlike some of Yellowstone’s other popular trails, the Mount Washburn Trail is not too crowded, allowing hikers to enjoy some peace and privacy along the way.
  • Where is the trailhead located?
    • The trailhead is located at the parking area at the end of the Grand Loop Road.

3. Fairy Falls Trail


Hike through forests and admire a peaceful waterfall on an easy trail.

Fairy Falls Trail

© J Hindman/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Fairy Falls Trail?
    • Fairy Falls Trail is a 6.6-mile easy both-ways trail that runs along the scenic Grand Prismatic Spring, through a regenerating forest, and ends at a backcountry geyser.
  • What notable landmarks does the trail pass?
    • The trail passes through:
      • The Grand Prismatic Spring – A massive, beautifully colored, 370-foot hot spring.
      • A regenerating forest – An area that burned down in 1988 but is now home to many species.
      • Fairy Falls – A stunning waterfall that plunges 197 feet from the Madison Plateau.
      • A backcountry geyser – A hidden gem at the end of the trail.
  • How crowded is Fairy Falls Trail?
    • The trail is very popular and can get crowded, so hikers should not expect solitude.
  • Where is the trailhead located?
    • The trailhead is located on the Old Faithful to Madison Road, about a mile from Midway Geyser Basin.
  • How does the trail start?
    • The trail begins by crossing the Firehole River Bridge, then continues along the south bank of Midway Geyser Basin on the Fountain Freight Road before reaching the Grand Prismatic Spring.
  • How far is Fairy Falls from the start of the trail?
    • Fairy Falls is reached after approximately 2.5 miles of hiking, where Fairy Creek cascades over the edge of the Madison Plateau.

4. Bunsen Peak Trail


Ascend to breathtaking views and explore an exciting mountain adventure.

Bunsen Peak Trail

© YariK/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Bunsen Peak Trail?
    • Bunsen Peak Trail is a 4.4-mile moderately difficult out-and-back trail that features steep switchbacks and a challenging climb.
  • How difficult is the trail?
    • The trail is considered moderately difficult, with a total elevation gain of 1,282 feet. The upper section is rocky and steep, with plenty of scree.
  • What kind of views can hikers expect?
    • The trail offers fantastic views throughout the hike, but the summit views are spectacular. From the top, you can see:
      • Gardners Hole
      • Electric Peak
      • The Gallatin Range
      • Swan Lake
      • Several smaller lakes
  • What can hikers see along the trail in the summer?
    • In the summer, the trail is surrounded by wild raspberries and wildflowers, adding to the scenic beauty of the hike.
  • Where is the Bunsen Peak Trailhead located?
    • The trailhead is located on US-89, about 4.8 miles in the direction towards Norris Junction, on the left side as you come out of Golden Gate Canyon.

5. Mystic Falls


Walk through wildflower meadows and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the falls.

Mystic Falls

© Krzysztof Wiktor/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Mystic Falls Trail?
    • Mystic Falls Trail is a 3.5-mile-long loop trail that follows the boardwalk and runs along the Little Firehole River before reaching the 70-foot Mystic Falls.
  • What notable features does the trail pass?
    • The trail takes hikers past several beautiful geothermal features, including:
      • Black Opal Pool
      • A magnificent blue pool called Sapphire Pool
      • Jewel Geyser and many other hot springs and geysers
  • Does the trail offer any scenic overlooks?
    • Yes! The trail leads to a spectacular overlook of the Upper Geyser Basin, providing a stunning panoramic view.
  • Is this a good place to watch Old Faithful?
    • Yes, the overlook is one of the best and least crowded spots to watch Old Faithful. Bring good binoculars for the best experience.
  • Is this trail family-friendly?
    • The first part of the trail is easy and fun for kids, making it a great option for families. However, there is a short but rough climb to the Madison Plateau later in the hike.
  • Are there any hazards along the trail?
    • As you descend from the overlook, be cautious of small sliding rocks on the steep incline.
  • What wildlife can be seen along the trail?
    • Hikers often spot cute yellow-bellied marmots along the trail.
  • Where is the trailhead located?
    • The trailhead can be found at the Biscuit Basin parking area.

6. Elephant Back Loop


Hike the loop and admire sweeping vistas of Yellowstone from the summit.

Elephant Back Loop

© Ralf Broskvar/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Elephant Back Loop?
    • Elephant Back Loop is a 3.6-mile-long loop trail that ascends the steep east slope of Elephant Back Mountain, leading to one of the most beautiful views of Yellowstone Lake.
  • What kind of terrain does the trail cover?
    • Most of the trail passes through a forested area, but after about 1.5 miles, the trees clear out as hikers approach the edge of the plateau.
  • What views can hikers expect?
    • Once hikers reach the plateau, they are rewarded with a spectacular view of Yellowstone Lake and the Absaroka Range.
  • How difficult is the trail?
    • Most of the trail is fairly easy, except for the final 300-foot-long steep section just before reaching the wide plateau.
  • Are there any wildlife concerns on this trail?
    • This area is favored by grizzly bears, and hikers will see caution notices at the start of the trail. Occasionally, the trail has been closed to prevent dangerous bear encounters.
  • Where is the trailhead located?
    • The trailhead is located on the Yellowstone National Park main highway, between Lake Village and West Thumb.

7. Observation Point


Climb to the top and savor spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness.

Observation Point

© vincebradley/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Observation Point Trail?
    • Observation Point Trail is a 1.1-mile-long loop trail that is fairly unused but provides quick access to the park’s backcountry.
  • What scenic views does the trail offer?
    • The trail features a fantastic viewpoint overlooking Old Faithful Village and Geyser Hill, making it a great spot to observe the famous Old Faithful eruption.
  • What geothermal features can be seen along the trail?
    • Hikers will pass by the Solitary Geyser thermal area, adding a unique geothermal element to the trail experience.
  • How difficult is the trail?
    • Most of the trail is fairly easy and level, except for a small steep portion just before reaching the Observation Point, which sits about 200 feet above the surrounding area.
  • What kind of forest does the trail pass through?
    • The trail winds through old forest patches that survived the 1988 fire, but it is mostly composed of regrown pine forest.
  • Where is the trailhead located?
    • The trailhead is at the parking lot at Old Faithful Village, north of Old Faithful.
  • Is this a good spot to watch Old Faithful erupt?
    • Yes! The view of Old Faithful Village from the Observation Point is spectacular, making it an ideal place to wait for the eruption.

8. Bechler Falls Trail


Hike lush trails and see beautiful cascading falls in a quiet corner of Yellowstone.

Bechler Falls Trail

© Urric/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Bechler Falls Trail?
    • Bechler Falls Trail is a 1.3-mile short trail in the southwest part of Yellowstone, making it one of the few short hikes in an area dominated by multi-day backpacking routes.
  • Is the Bechler Falls Trail less exciting because of its length?
    • No! Despite its short length, the trail offers an exciting hike with scenic river views, verdant woodlands, and a powerful cascade at Bechler Falls.
  • What is Bechler Falls?
    • Bechler Falls is a small but powerful cascade on the Bechler River, creating a stunning natural attraction at the end of the hike.
  • Where does the trail begin?
    • The trail begins at the much larger Cave Falls, providing an impressive starting point before leading to Bechler Falls.
  • What natural features does the trail pass?
    • Along the way, hikers will pass the scenic confluence of the Fall and Bechler rivers, where the two rivers merge in a beautiful setting.
  • What is the surrounding landscape like?
    • The trail winds gently through cool, verdant woodland, creating a peaceful hiking experience. In the summer, it is surrounded by fields of colorful wildflowers.
  • Does the trail follow a river?
    • Yes! The trail stays alongside at least one of the rivers for most of the hike, offering continuous water views.
  • Where is the trailhead located?
    • The trailhead can be found at the end of the unpaved Cave Falls Road.

9. Divide Lookout Trail


Trek the ridge and enjoy unforgettable views of distant peaks and valleys.

Divide Lookout Trail

© lzf/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Divide Lookout Trail?
    • Divide Lookout Trail is a 1.5-mile short, unmarked trail that steadily climbs a steep ravine to the 8,779-foot-high summit on the Continental Divide.
  • What makes this trail unique?
    • The trail parallels the Continental Divide, making it a special hike for those interested in exploring this natural boundary.
  • What type of forest does the trail pass through?
    • The trail winds through a dense lodgepole and fir forest, which blocks most views along the way.
  • Where does the trail end?
    • The trail ends on a flat summit in a clearing surrounded by tall trees, which was once the site of the now-dismantled Divide Lookout fire watchtower.
  • Are there any scenic views along the trail?
    • Although the dense forest limits visibility, occasional gaps in the trees provide lovely restricted views of Mount Sheridan and Shoshone Lake.
  • Where is the trailhead located?
    • The trailhead is at the large pullout between Old Faithful and West Thumb.

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