The world’s first national park offers over 2 million acres to explore, with nearly 300 hiking trails spanning approximately 1,000 miles. Yellowstone National Park invites you to step into paradise, whether you are aiming for a leisurely stroll or gearing up for a backcountry adventure. Find the right trail for you, and prepare for incredible sights along the way. Yellowstone boasts the highest concentration of geysers and hot springs found anywhere on the planet (strictly for viewing, not soaking), and it’s also home to the nation’s largest bison population — hiking affords the chance to witness these regal, free-roaming giants from afar. While Yellowstone’s natural wonders and wildlife are incredible to experience, remember to play it safe: Don’t pet the bison, admire the thermal springs from a distance and stick to the trails.
Before setting out on your hike, check the status of your chosen trail — closures may be in effect due to weather conditions or wildlife activity. Follow hiking safety guidelines as well as bear safety practices.
1. Mount Washburn from Dunraven Pass
Enjoy wildflowers and bighorn sheep sightings in this scenic day hike. The trail leads along alpine ridges, past grassy slopes and through treed areas to the summit at 10,219 feet. Panoramic views from the fire lookout at the top can reach 20-50 miles. Due to the high elevation, this hike is not recommended for those with heart and/or respiratory problems.
2. DeLacy Creek Trail
Ideal for adventurers eager to explore the park without crowds, this hike winds along forest edges and through vast meadows on the way to Shoshone Lake: the park’s largest backcountry lake.
3. Clear Lake and Ribbon Lake Loop
Hike through serene meadows and woodland sections to reach the shores of hydrothermal Clear Lake, with its distinct jade-colored waters, before continuing to views of the Silver Cord Cascade and to Ribbon Lake, adorned with lily pads. On the return, you’ll follow the South Rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
4. Avalanche Peak
This challenging trail in the Absaroka Range winds through old forest and fire-scarred landscape as it climbs 2,100 feet in just over 2 miles. Avalanche Peak’s summit, towering at over 10,000 feet, provides unobstructed views of the Absaroka Mountains and Yellowstone Lake. Note that this steep, high-elevation trail is not recommended for those with heart and/or respiratory problems.
5. Fairy Falls
On the way to the towering yet delicate Fairy Falls, this trail leads past the Grand Prismatic Spring on a hill, giving a different perspective of the vibrantly colored pool than from the boardwalk surrounding it. Hike through lodgepole pine to the 200-foot namesake waterfall, and then on to two active geysers before retracing your steps back.
6. Storm Point Nature Trail
Short but sweet, this trail’s varied terrain has something for everyone. Start out at a pond surrounded with expansive meadows, where you can spot wildlife ranging from bison to waterfowl. Continue through a lodgepole pine forest past hydrothermal features to the shore of Yellowstone Lake and Storm Point — the surrounding rocky area is a great place to spot marmots.
7. Purple Mountain Trail
Reach new heights and take in unforgettable sights on the Purple Mountain Trail. Climb to the summit for sweeping views of the Gibbon and Madison rivers winding through the valley below.
8. Mammoth Terraces
Explore the otherworldly Mammoth Terraces on a network of boardwalks and trails for an up-close look at a "living sculpture." Shaped by active springs, these ever-changing formations feature bubbling hydrothermal features, stunning travertine deposits, colorful stepped pools and mineral-rich terraces. Stick to the boardwalk to safely admire this ever-shifting wonder.
9. Yellowstone River Picnic Area Trail
Traverse the rim of the Yellowstone River canyon, which features striking basalt columns formed by an ancient lava flow. View steam rising from hydrothermal vents along the river’s edge, and look up to see peregrine falcons and ospreys nesting along the cliffs, while bighorn sheep expertly navigate the canyon walls.
10. Beaver Pond Loop
From the Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace, embark on this hike through expansive sagebrush meadows and forested ponds — a diverse landscape rich with the flora and fauna of the region. Take in the breathtaking views and keep an eye out for wildlife: Big and small, winged or legged, this loop is teeming with them.
