More than one thousand miles of trails can be found snaking through the many ecosystems that make up Yellowstone National Park, making it a veritable trekking paradise for hikers. This magnificent location offers a wide variety of Yellowstone hiking opportunities, from quick strolls through the forest to strenuous treks into the wilderness. These Best Hikes in Yellowstone are the best way to take in the park’s breathtaking scenery, regardless of your level of hiking expertise as we have a range of options for everyone.
A Little History of Yellowstone National Park
The history of Yellowstone National Park is extensive and intriguing, going back thousands of years. For millennia, Native American tribes including the Bannock, Shoshone, and Crow inhabited the area and used its resources. The world’s first national park, Yellowstone, was created as a protected area in 1872 by President Ulysses S. Grant. Thanks to the development of multiple hotels and the building of a stagecoach route through the park in the late 1800s, the park became a well-liked tourist attraction.
The 1930s bison population extinction and the 1980s labeling of the grizzly bear population as endangered were just two of the difficulties that Yellowstone has had to deal with throughout the years. However, the park has been able to flourish and remain a popular destination for millions of people each year because to the work of organizations like the National Park Service and the Civilian Conservation Corps, as well as the support of tourists and environmentalists.
Today, Yellowstone is famed for its geothermal features, including Old Faithful Geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring, and is home to a variety of species, including bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. And of course it is very popular for outdoor activities including hiking as this allows to really immerse yourself in its nature and landscape. With these 12 Best Hikes in Yellowstone, we hope you can explore and enjoy this historic park in all its glory.
The following are the top attractions in Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is home to an astonishing variety of flora and fauna, as well as geothermal phenomena and breathtaking scenery. While enjoying some of the best hikes in Yellowstone, here are some of the more notable sights to observe include the following:
- Old Faithful Geyser is one of the most well-known geysers in the world. It is known to erupt around once every 90 minutes, sending a column of hot water and steam into the atmosphere.
- Grand Prismatic Spring is a beautiful hot spring that is one of the most photographed sites in Yellowstone. It is the biggest spring of its kind in the park.
- Yellowstone Falls are a stunning natural attraction that drop more than 300 feet and are known for their mighty force.
- Lamar Valley is a secluded valley that is home to a rich variety of species, such as elk, bison, and wolves.
- The Upper and Lower Falls are two of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, and they may be found in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Why So Many People Love Hiking in Yellowstone
The popularity of hiking in Yellowstone National Park may be attributed to a number of different factors. Yellowstone hikes enable folks to explore a diverse array of landscapes inside the park due to the extensive route network that the park maintains. These landscapes vary from the thick woods that are found in the park’s northern areas to the huge grasslands that are found in the park’s lowlands. In addition, the park has a long and interesting history, and it is home to a wide variety of animal species and unique landscapes which we spoke about before. This of course, makes it a very unique destination to explore for visitors around the world.
Our List of 12 Best Hikes in Yellowstone NP to Trek
Fairy Falls Hike in Yellowstone
The journey to Fairy Falls is an easy three miles roundtrip and gets you to a stunning waterfall that is 200 feet high. The hike starts at the Fairy Falls Trailhead, which is accessible from the Grand Loop Road and is situated close to the Upper Geyser Basin. The walk travels through a forest on a well-maintained path, and it eventually emerges onto a meadow that provides stunning vistas of the mountains that are located in the region. The last section of the path will lead you to the bottom of the falls, where you will be able to take in the scenery and listen to the roaring of the water as it descends.
Lone Star Geyser Hike in Yellowstone
The Lone Star Geyser is accessible through a climb that is rated as moderate and covers a distance of 5 miles round-trip. The geyser is known to erupt around every three hours. The Lone Star Geyser Trailhead can be found off of the Old Faithful-West Thumb Road. This is where this Yellowstone hike officially starts.
The pathway first takes a somewhat level course through the woods and then begins to snake its way along the riverbanks of the Firehole. You’ll get the opportunity to see a number of different geothermal phenomena, including as hot springs and geysers, as you go along the route. You will arrive to the Lone Star Geyser after completing the last section of the route, where you will be able to appreciate the surroundings while watching the geyser erupt.
Biscuit Basin Hiking in Yellowstone
A sequence of vibrant hot springs awaits you at the end of this moderately difficult three-mile round-trip climb to Biscuit Basin. The hike starts at the Biscuit Basin Trailhead, which is accessible from the Grand Loop Road and is situated close to the Upper Geyser Basin. The walk travels through a forest on a well-maintained path, and it eventually emerges onto a meadow that provides stunning vistas of the mountains that are located in the region.
You’ll get the opportunity to see a number of different geothermal phenomena, including as hot springs and geysers, as you go along the route. The last segment of the walk brings you to the Biscuit Basin, where you can get an up-close look at a number of colorful hot springs.
Hiking Mount Washburn
Mount Washburn offers a strenuous climb with a round-trip distance of ten miles that leads to the peak of a mountain with breathtaking vistas of the national park. Mount Washburn Trailhead may be reached by driving up the Mount Washburn Road. This is where the hike officially starts. After ascending a steep road through the forest, the trail emerges into a meadow that provides stunning vistas of the mountains that are located in the surrounding region.
You will have the opportunity to witness a wide range of animals along the journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears. The last part of the hike brings you to the top of the mountain, where you can take in breathtaking views of the national park and the scenery in all directions around you.
Elephant Back Loop Yellowstone
The Elephant Back Loop is a trek that is considered to be moderate in difficulty and encompasses a round-trip distance of three miles. The hike passes through a gorgeous meadow and provides spectacular views of the park. The Elephant Back Loop Trailhead can be found off of the Grand Loop Road close to the Lake Village area. This is where this more complex Yellowstone hike technically begins.
The route travels across a field on a path that is kept in good condition and then makes a circle to return to its starting point. You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears. The last section of the walk brings you back to the trailhead, where you may take in stunning vistas of the natural world that are found all around you.
Yellowstone Mystic Falls Hike
Mystic Falls is accessible by a pleasant trek that covers a total distance of two miles on a round-trip basis. The Mystic Falls Trailhead can be found off of the Grand Loop Road close to the Lake Village area. This is where the hike officially starts. The walk travels through an area of woodland on a well-kept path and eventually brings you to the bottom of the waterfall, where you can take in the sights and sounds of the water tumbling over the rocks below you. You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears.
Artist Point Trail Hike in Yellowstone
The Artist Point trail is an easy one-mile round-trip trek that leads to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Yellowstone National Park’s Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The simple Yellowstone hike starts at the Artist Point Trailhead, which can be found off of South Rim Drive in the Grand Canyon.
On the way to the viewpoint, which offers stunning vistas of both the canyon and the Lower Falls, the walk travels along a path that has been well maintained. You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears.
Tower Fall Hike
This gorgeous waterfall, Tower Fall, is located at the end of a short and simple climb that covers a round-trip distance of one mile. The Tower Fall Trailhead can be found off of the Tower-Canyon Road and serves as the trail’s starting point. The walk travels through an area of woodland on a well-kept path and eventually brings you to the bottom of the waterfall, where you can take in the sights and sounds of the water tumbling over the rocks below you. You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears.
Bechler Meadows Trail in Yellowstone
Bechler Meadows is a hiking destination with a round-trip distance of 9 miles that is rated as moderately difficult. The journey takes you through a scenic meadow and along the Bechler River. The hiking path may be started from the Bechler Meadows Trailhead, which can be found off of the Bechler Meadows Road. A well-kept route leads hikers through a meadow on their approach to the Bechler River, where they will find themselves winding their way along the riverbanks.
You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears. The last section of the walk brings you back to the trailhead, where you may take in stunning vistas of the natural world that are found all around you.
Heart Lake Hike
Heart Lake is accessible by a trek that is rated as moderate and covers a distance of seven miles round-trip. The lake is encircled by mountains. The hiking path may be started from the Heart Lake Trailhead, which can be found off of the Heart Lake Road. The walk travels through an area of woodland on a path that is kept in good condition and then brings you out onto the beaches of Heart Lake, where you can take in stunning vistas of the mountains in the vicinity. You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears.
Avalanche Peak Hike
Avalanche Peak is a strenuous climb that covers 8 miles round-trip and leads hikers to the peak of a mountain, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of the park. The hike starts at the Avalanche Peak Trailhead, which is accessible from the Grand Loop Road and is situated close to the Canyon Village neighborhood.
After ascending a steep road through the forest, the trail emerges into a meadow that provides stunning vistas of the mountains that are located in the surrounding region. You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears. The last part of the hike brings you to the top of the mountain, where you can take in breathtaking views of the national park and the scenery in all directions around you.
Amazing Union Falls Hike in Yellowstone
A stunning waterfall of 259 feet in height can be seen at the end of this moderately difficult climb that covers a round-trip distance of 5 km. The Union Falls Trailhead can be found off of the Union Falls Road and serves as the trail’s starting point.
The walk travels through an area of woodland on a well-kept path and eventually brings you to the bottom of the waterfall, where you can take in the sights and sounds of the water tumbling over the rocks below you. You will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals on your journey, including bears, bison, elk, and potentially even other types of bears.
* It is vital to keep in mind that a backcountry permit, which may be purchased at a ranger station or online, may be necessary to access some hiking routes.
Safety Tips for the Best Hikes in Yellowstone
- Before going on a trek, it is important to always check the upcoming weather prediction. Yellowstone National Park is known for having weather that is notoriously difficult to anticipate, with rapid shifts in both temperature and precipitation. Bring layers of clothing that you can adjust by adding or removing as the temperature changes, and always be ready for any kind of weather.
- Bring a lot of water and snacks with you so that you can maintain your energy up while you’re hiking. Because mobile phone connection is not always reliable in the park, bringing along a map of the surrounding region is another smart thing to do.
- Keep on the paths that have been designated for you, and observe any limits or closures that may be in place. This helps to conserve the delicate environment that the park is home to and guarantees that visitors of all ages may safely enjoy the area.
- Leave no trace. To have as little of an effect as possible on the natural world, remove all of your rubbish from the area and observe the Leave No Trace guidelines.
Advice for Hikers in Yellowstone National Park
- If you want to escape the crowds and the highest weather, starting your treks early in the day is your best bet.
- Put on some shoes that are strong and comfy, and don’t forget to carry a hat and some sunscreen so you can protect your skin from the sun.
- Be on the lookout for bears. Since Yellowstone National Park is home to a large population of grizzly bears, visitors should exercise extreme care when trekking in the park. Be noise to let bears know you’re around, carry bear spray with you, and make sure to follow all of the safety recommendations about bears.
- Be prepared for altitude. Before embarking on a trek in Yellowstone, it is essential to adapt to the park’s high altitude since several of the paths in the park acquire a substantial amount of height.
Hiking in Yellowstone National Park is, without a doubt, one of the most incredible experiences one can have. Walking is the best method to get a feel for this magnificent location because of the gorgeous scenery, unique fauna, and extensive history that can be found here. To find out all that Yellowstone National Park has to offer, lace up your hiking boots and get out on the trails on at least one or two of these Best Hikes in Yellowstone.
Hiking in Yellowstone FAQs
What are the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park?
Mount Washburn Trail, Lone Star Geyser Trail, Fairy Falls Trail, Bechler River Trail, and are among the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park.
What should I bring on a hike in Yellowstone National Park?
When hiking in Yellowstone National Park, pack lots of water, a hat, sunscreen, bug repellent, and snacks. It is also a good idea to include a first aid kit, a map, and a compass.
Is it safe to hike in Yellowstone National Park?
Hiking in Yellowstone National Park is safe if you follow adequate safety measures and are prepared for the circumstances. Staying on defined routes, avoiding interaction with animals, and having bear spray are some measures to consider.
Are there any restrictions on hiking in Yellowstone National Park?
Hiking in Yellowstone National Park is subject to several limitations. Dogs, for example, are not permitted on most paths, and overnight camping is only permitted in specific sites. It is also critical to remain on identified routes in order to conserve the park’s natural resources.
How do I get a permit to hike in Yellowstone National Park?
To get a permit for overnight camping or backpacking in Yellowstone National Park, visit a park visitor center or call the park’s backcountry office. Permits are needed for all overnight stays in the park’s backcountry, including backcountry campsites, trailhead corrals, and wilderness campsites.
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