Best Hikes in Yellowstone National Park | 20 Top Hiking Trails 

With a breathtaking array of subalpine forests, alpine meadows, and geothermal hot pockets, there’s no denying Yellowstone National Park’s beauty. Considering there are close to 3,500 square miles of untamed wildlife to explore, you have a fair share of hikes to pick from.

But how do you pick the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park when there are over 250 trails? Add the unthinkable number of landmarks to explore, and you’re in for some tough decisions.

It’s fair to say there’s a lot to think about. So how about making that choice easier? Get ready to discover all the best trails Yellowstone offers, from the gentle stroll along the Grand Prismatic to the challenging Avalanche Peak trail.

Who knows, you may even be able to tick off those iconic things to do in Yellowstone at the same time.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Best Time to Go Hiking in Yellowstone National Park

At the heart of Wyoming, with parts of the park in Idaho and Montana, this region becomes bitterly cold around winter. It gets so cold that the winter’s snow also tends to stick around for much of spring. 

Check the official national park service website for updates on road closures due to dangerous travel conditions.

With these cold and often wet conditions in mind, the best time to hit the Yellowstone trails is in summer and early fall. This is between June and September. You’ll experience daily highs in the 70s and lows around the 30s°F.

In other words, it’s the best time to visit for warm weather and low rainfall. Remember, this is also the park’s busiest season, so expect crowds on the popular hikes.

Tours Of Yellowstone National Park

How to Get to Yellowstone National Park

There are loads of ways you can make your way into this park, as there are five entrances to enter this magical oasis of the outdoors. These include the South Entrance, West Entrance, Northeast Entrance, North Entrance, and West Entrance.

If you plan on flying and renting a car, the closest airport is West Yellowstone Airport (WYS) in Montana. This airport is only three miles from the West Entrance, making it one of the most convenient ways to enter the park.

If you’re planning an epic Grand Teton to Yellowstone road trip or simply want to explore the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, use the South Entrance. This is also where you’ll find most of the unforgettable trails on this list.

There is no shuttle service within this expansive park, so having a car is a must.

>>>Rent A Car Here<<<

Map Of Best Hikes In Yellowstone National Park

How Much Time Is Needed to Explore Yellostone’s Best Hikes?

Spend at least three days exploring Yellowstone’s steep switchbacks, geothermal spots, and diverse wildlife. However, with the Yellowstone River Valley, countless waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas along the North and South Rim, this can easily be a week-long affair.

What To Pack For Hiking In Yellowstone National Park

There were only a few trails in Yellowstone that were worth hiking, but it is best to dress as comfortably as possible. Which is usually my hiking clothes (leggings, sports bra, and breathable shirts), and it was easy to transition when I wanted to hike.

1. Sunscreen: Super important and because it was so freaking hot when we were here!  >Buy Sunscreen
2. Chapstick: This one has SPF so your lips won’t get burned! >Check Out This Chapstick
3. Hiking Sandals: I used these sandals when we would go to all the lookouts. So comfy yet durable. >Check Out My Hiking Sandals
4. Hiking Boots/Shoes: If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes hitting a rock by accident (Trust me, I have done it so many times before). >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
5. Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
6. Water Reservoir: Water reservoirs help prevent dehydration while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
7. Water: Stay nice and hydrated. It was soooooo hot when hiking here. Bring water to every hike.
8. Sunglasses: It can get sunny in the summer, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. >Check Out These Sunglasses
9. Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. >>>Check Out These Snacks
10. Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
11. First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
12. Day Pack to carry all your things: To carry all your gear, water, and food, you need a good backpack. Osprey is known to have some of the best backpacks in the market. >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
13. Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
14. Leggings or Hiking Pants: I usually wear leggings while hiking because it is what I feel most comfortable with! >Click For My Favorite Hiking Leggings
15. Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
16. Sports Bra: For women. >Check This One Here
17. Jacket: Fall can get pretty chilly. >Buy My Favorite Jacket
18. Rain Jacket: The worst feeling in the world is being wet and cold while hiking. You can get hypothermia, so always carry a poncho or a rain jacket when you hike Wyoming. Thunderstorms can happen. >Check Out My Rain Jacket Here
19. Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
20. Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
21. Bear Spray: There are so many bears here! Stay safe and hike with some spray. Everyone should carry one. >Check It Out Here
22. National Park Pass:  I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass so you can get into both parks with ease. >Get It Here
23. Map And Trail Guide: Start planning your trip with this. >Buy One Here

Where to Stay for the Best Hiking Trails in Yellowstone

The small town of West Yellowstone is a mere three miles from the West Entrance, so it makes sense to stay in this city. Don’t be mistaken, there are some fantastic places to stay in Yellowstone, but these are often fairly pricey.

Here are some great picks in West Yellowstone that won’t disappoint.     

Luxury: Yellowstone Park Hotel

Yellowstone Park Hotel is like heaven on earth, from the muscle-relaxing hot tub to the calming pallet of creams and deep reds. With less than a five-minute drive to the West Entrance, you’ll have some of the world’s best hikes at your feet.

They also offer a refreshing indoor swimming pool and quick access to nearby restaurants like Timberline Cafe. >>>View Rates and Availability

Mid-Range: Kelly Inn West Yellowstone 

If you’re seeking something budget-friendly that still maintains an element of class, consider Kelly Inn. From the heated indoor swimming pool to the complimentary continental breakfast, this lodging will make you feel like royalty.

This spot even offers free airport shuttle services and a magical spa so your tired muscles can get some rest after hiking all day. It’s also less than five minutes from the West Entrance. >>>View Rates and Availability

Budget: Crosswinds Inn 

Enjoy Montana’s hospitality at an affordable price at the Crosswinds Inn. With the West Entrance only one mile away and a hot complimentary breakfast to start your day, you can enjoy Yellowstone to the fullest.

They also offer an indoor pool and free Wi-Fi to stay connected during your vacation. Plus, the Inn is close to some classy eateries, like the Firehole BBQ. >>>View Rates and Availability

Camping: Under Canvas West Yellowstone

It may be seven miles from the West Entrance, but you won’t find a better glamping experience near Yellowstone. This accommodation has everything from an on-site restaurant and bar to private bathrooms and personal patios.

You can even enjoy evening entertainment and live music performances each night. >>>View Rates and Availability

Alternatively, check out the excellent campsites within Yellowstone National Park. Indian Creek is the best equipped and busiest, so you’ll want to book well in advance.

Read More: Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park | 9 Amazing Lodging & Yellowstone Hotels

20 Best Yellowstone Hikes You Can’t Miss

Hiking Yellowstone is an adventurer’s dream come true. So here are 20 of the best trails in Yellowstone for every skill level.

Grand Prismatic Hot Spring 

• Elevation Gain: 200 feet
• Mileage: 1.5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

There’s no better place to start than the largest hot spring in the US, right? All you need is a short and easy 40-minute hike along a relatively flat and well-marked path before you take in the magical views of the Grand Prismatic. 

The only slightly strenuous section is toward the end of the out-and-back trail as you reach the top of the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook. Once at the top, you’ll be in awe of this bubbling hot spring with its myriad of colors.

Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop  

• Elevation Gain: 357 feet
• Mileage: 4.9 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

The Upper Geyser Basin trail is a somewhat lengthy trek that takes roughly an hour and 45 minutes to complete. The journey begins with a picturesque walk around the Old Faithful geyser.

Luckily, most of the elevation gain is at the start of the climb. This is where you’ll hike up to the Observation Point, offering stunning views of Old Faithful bursting to heights of 130 feet. 

The rest of the journey is fairly level as you pass Geyser Hill and the North Triplet Geyser before doubling back.

Fairy Falls Trail

• Elevation Gain: 170 feet
• Mileage: 4.7 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

The Fairy Falls trailhead starts by crossing over Firehole River and offers a gentle hour-and-a-half stroll past some iconic Yellowstone landmarks. On your way to the alluring Fairy Falls, you’ll pass sights like the Grand Prismatic Spring and Fairy Meadows (a great spot for a quick picnic).

Once there, admire the 200-foot plunge down the cliffside. The falls also have a cave which you can wade to and capture some unforgettable hiking photos of the landscape in the opposite direction.

Dunraven Pass to Mount Washburn

• Elevation Gain: 1,394 feet
• Mileage: 6.7 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Of all the Yellowstone National Park hikes, it’s hard to beat the scenic views along this three-and-a-half-hour out-and-back trail. Although the elevation gain is relatively high, it’s a gradual ascent to the top of the fire lookout at Mount Washburn.

The midway point has a zigzagging path before leading you to the Summit Ridgeline, where you’ll likely see some mountain goats. Once at the summit, simply admire the 360-degree views of the subalpine forest below and enjoy the interpretive exhibits within the fire lookout.

Mystic Falls, Fairy Creek, and Little Firehole Loop

• Elevation Gain: 606 feet
• Mileage: 3.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

This hour and 40-minute loop trail has everything, from waterfalls and peaceful meadows to boiling geothermal spots. Start by trekking along the boardwalk through Biscuit Basin, where you can discover the Wall and Sapphire pools before making your way up to two stunning viewpoints.

Each viewpoint offers a unique perspective of the Upper Geyser Basin. It’s then a gradual stroll down towards Little Firehole River, where the rushing sound of Mystic Falls becomes louder with each step. After admiring this flowing body of water, it’s a gentle riverside stroll back to the trailhead.

Brink of the Lower Falls Trail

• Elevation Gain: 265 feet
• Mileage: 0.68 miles
• Difficulty: Easy 
• Trail Guide: Link

Stepping into the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, this easy 30-minute trek will surely grab your attention. It’s a trail packed with nine hairpin turns as you slowly descend the canyon toward the side of the river.

At the trail’s end, there is an undeniably breathtaking viewing deck of the Yellowstone River Canyon and the Lower Falls. It’s a short but lovely hike that’s definitely worth your time.

North Rim Trail

• Elevation Gain: 675 feet
• Mileage: 6.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Enjoy the ebb and flow of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone along this two-and-a-half-hour trail. On your way towards Inspiration Point, you’ll pass some picturesque sights, such as the Crystal Falls and the Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River.

It’s a climb bordering on high difficulty, but as the path is relatively well maintained, it’s still doable for many adventurers.

Point Sublime via Artist Point 

• Elevation Gain: 341 feet
• Mileage: 2.6 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Trail Guide: Link

Heading upstream through the Grand Canyon, this trek leads you to incandescent views from Point Sublime. At the very start, take a short detour to Artist Point, where a captivating, vivid valley awaits. 

The trail travels along the Ribbon Lake path and has many ups and downs as you approach Point Sublime. Luckily, there are many trees throughout the walk, so there are many shady spots to take a break at.

Storm Point Loop Trail 

• Elevation Gain: 98 feet
• Mileage: 2.5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

If you want an easy hike with unforgettable views of Yellowstone Lake, look no further than this 50-minute trek. From the East Entrance Road, it’s a gentle stroll past Indian Pond and through a lush forest.

Once the canopy splits, you’re met by magnificent views of Yellowstone Lake and the Two Ocean Plateau in the distance. 

Bunsen Peak Trail

• Elevation Gain: 1,282 feet
• Mileage: 4.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Branching off from the Grand Loop Road in the park’s northern region, the Bunsen Peak trail is a somewhat challenging two-and-a-half-hour trek. Luckily, it’s a relatively gradual climb to the top of Bunsen Peak, but your legs are sure to feel the burn.

At the summit, there’s a small cabin with some informational plaques. But the real showstopper is the views, as you can admire Gallatin Mountain Range, Blacktail Deer Plateau, and the Mammoth Hot Springs to the north. 

Avalanche Peak Trail 

• Elevation Gain: 2,070 feet
• Mileage: 4.4 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Starting east of Yellowstone Lake, this strenuous hike is a three-and-a-half-hour calf burner not for the faint-hearted. Although it’s not the longest trail in the park, its steep ascent past tall pines and large open spaces will take your breath away. 

There is a fantastic viewpoint of the North Absaroka Wilderness roughly 1.2 miles into the climb and a false summit 0.5 miles from there. But you’ve really come all this way for the views of snow-capped mountains from the top of Avalanche Peak.

Beaver Ponds Loop Trail

• Elevation Gain: 764 feet
• Mileage: 5.5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

The first mile of this two-hour and 20-minute trek is all uphill, so prepare for a well-deserved break early on. That said, you won’t mind having a pause here, as Primrose Creek offers a picturesque stop.

It’s pretty smooth sailing from here, with much of the hike being downhill as you head toward the Beaver Ponds. It’s a spot teeming with wildlife, from the fireweed and lupine flowers to elks and other animals.

Lamar Valley Trail 

• Elevation Gain: 698 feet
• Mileage: 7.1 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Don’t mistake this two-hour and 45-minute trek for the extreme Lamar River trail, which is 32.9 miles long. Although they follow the same path, the Lamar River trail is one of the great Yellowstone day hikes, which can be done if you’re up for the challenge. 

This trail takes you alongside the Lamar River to the Cache Creek Fords. Most of the hike is through expansive grasslands, where you’ll see plenty of wildlife, from Bison to blacktail deer. 

Midway Geyser Basin Trail 

• Elevation Gain: 55 feet
• Mileage: 0.68 miles 
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Enjoy this flat loop trail for a 15-minute hike past all the top geothermal sights in the Midway Geyser Basin. Admire everything from the Excelsior Geyser Crater and the Grand Prismatic Spring to the Opal and Turquoise Pools. 

Each sight has a descriptive plaque giving you even more information about each landmark.

Lone Star Geyser Trail

• Elevation Gain: 127 feet
• Mileage: 5.2 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Many of the top hiking trails in Yellowstone depart from Grand Loop Road, and this hour and 40-minute trek is no different. As you walk alongside the Firehole River, you’ll pass two small geysers to your right, which occasionally erupt in magnificent fashion.

As you continue along this gentle track, you’ll eventually reach the Lone Star Geyser, where impressive eruptions occur every three hours.

Mammoth Terraces Loop Trail 

• Elevation Gain: 324 feet
• Mileage: 2.1 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Possibly the most photographed region of Yellowstone, the Mammoth Terraces offers an hour’s hike through a seemingly distant world. The limestone travertines form ethereal steps throughout the land thanks to thousands of years of geothermal activity.

As you navigate this peculiar landscape, you’ll see colorful thermophiles, steaming springs, and sculpted landscapes thanks to the limestone travertines.

Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail

• Elevation Gain: 200 feet
• Mileage: 1.6 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Although short, this 1.6-mile loop trail can take around 45 minutes due to its steep incline. Starting on the western edge of Yellowstone Lake, you’ll have to cross the South East Entrance Road before making your way up the hill. 

It’s a fairly well-covered trail with lush forest until you reach the overlook, where you can admire Yellowstone Lake in all its glory. 

Sky Rim Loop Trail

• Elevation Gain: 4,675 feet
• Mileage: 18.2 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

For the best day hike in Yellowstone, tackle this 10-hour trek through the Gallatin Mountain Range. As you make the 4,675-foot elevation trek through the valley, you’ll have unforgettable views of the Crown, Lava, and King Buttes.

Much of the track’s first half travels alongside Dailey Creek, a regular watering hole for all sorts of animals. You must be aware of potential dangers from these animals throughout this lengthy hike. 

Specimen Ridge Trail 

• Elevation Gain: 3,861 feet
• Mileage: 16.9 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Another one of those strenuous day hikes in Yellowstone, this eight-hour and 45-minute trek is sure to get your heart racing and thighs burning. Kicking off at the Northeast Entrance Road, it’s a steep climb up to the top of Amethyst Mountain. 

As you go back down the other side of Amethyst Mountain, Fossil Forest comes into view. This is a region where volcanic eruptions caused the region’s trees to become enveloped in soft rock, which preserved them into towering tree fossils.

Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and Crystal Falls Trail

• Elevation Gain: 459 feet
• Mileage: 4.1 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Last but certainly not least, there’s the meandering one-hour and 40-minute trail alongside the Yellowstone River. Starting at the Chittenden Bridge, you’ll hike upstream along the South Rim Trail and pass the Upper and Lower Falls viewpoints. 

You’ll continue along the path to Artists Point, where you can admire the beauty of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Best Hikes Yellowstone National Park | FAQs

You now know of all the best hiking trails Yellowstone has to offer, but there may be one or two things you’re still unsure about. Here are some answers to the most common questions.

What is the Most Scenic of Yellowstone National Park’s Best Hikes?

The most scenic Yellowstone hike is, hands down, the Dunraven Pass to Mount Washburn trail, with an overwhelmingly breathtaking lookout at the top.

What is the Hardest Yellowstone Hiking Trail?

It has to be the Avalanche Peak trail, thanks to its extensive distance and elevation gain. Not only is it the most strenuous, but it’s also a simply stunning hike that’s well worth the effort.

How Safe Are the Top Hikes in Yellowstone? 

If you take safe hiking practices into account, Yellowstone hiking trails are just as safe as any other national park’s. That said, grizzly bears are far more common in the park, as are Bison, both of which can be very dangerous. 

With this in mind, always hike in groups of at least two people and carry bear spray as a precautionary measure. Also, it’s best to avoid steep trails after rain or snowmelt, so keep an eye on the weather forecast before heading out.

Can You Touch the Hot Springs in Yellowstone?

Under no circumstances should you touch the hot springs at Yellowstone. These bodies of water are scorching, and many have suffered severe burns and sometimes death when falling into the water. 

Please exercise the greatest level of caution when anywhere near these areas of geothermal activity, such as the Mammoth Hot Springs.

Can You Swim at Certain Spots Along Yellowstone Trails?

Based on the previous answer, this may seem like a silly question, But there are two designated swimming spots in Yellowstone National Park. 

If your urge to swim is strong, go to the Boiling River Swimming Area or the Firehole River Swimming Area. It’s essential you only swim in these designated areas, as you never truly know if the water is hot spring-fed or not in this park. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Trails Yellowstone Has to Offer

So there you have it, all the best Yellowstone National Park trails sure to captivate your imagination. You also now know where to stay and when to go to this glorious part of the world. 

Keep in mind that the peak bear season and tourist season overlap, so always practice safe hiking and travel with at least one other hiker. 

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