Yellowstone National Park, renowned for its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re looking for short, scenic walks or challenging backcountry treks, Yellowstone has something for everyone. And you can get all these trails on HiiKER. Here are the ten best hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Uncle Tom’s Trail
- Distance: 0.7 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: This short but steep trail takes you down over 300 steps to a viewing platform near the base of the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. The breathtaking view of the waterfall and the canyon is worth the effort.
2. Fairy Falls Trail
- Distance: 5.4 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: The trail leads to one of Yellowstone’s most impressive waterfalls, Fairy Falls, which plunges 200 feet. You can also take a short detour to see the Grand Prismatic Spring from an elevated viewpoint.
3. Lamar Valley Trail
- Distance: 7 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: Known as the “Serengeti of North America,” Lamar Valley is an excellent place to spot wildlife such as bison, elk, and wolves. The trail offers expansive views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
4. Mount Washburn Trail
- Distance: 6.2 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: This popular hike provides panoramic views of the park from the summit of Mount Washburn, standing at 10,243 feet. On a clear day, you can see the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the distant Tetons.
5. Powerline, Fairy Creek and Fairy Falls Loop Trail
- Distance: 21.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: This loop trail offers a combination of geothermal features, a beautiful waterfall, and a forested creek. The trail begins in Biscuit Basin and leads to Mystic Falls, a 70-foot cascade.
6. Avalanche Peak Trail
- Distance: 4.2 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Highlights: For those seeking a challenging hike, Avalanche Peak offers stunning views of Yellowstone Lake and the Absaroka Range. The trail is steep and can be snow-covered into early summer, but the vistas are worth the climb.
7. Slough Creek Trail
- Distance: 20 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: This long, scenic trail follows Slough Creek through open meadows and forested areas. It’s a great spot for fishing and wildlife viewing, with chances to see bison, bears, and moose.
8. Elephant Back Mountain Trail
- Distance: 3.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: This trail offers excellent views of Yellowstone Lake from the top of Elephant Back Mountain. The ascent is steady but not too steep, making it a great option for a shorter hike with rewarding scenery.
9. Storm Point Trail
- Distance: 2.3 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: This easy loop trail provides beautiful views of Yellowstone Lake and passes through meadows and forested areas. It’s a great option for families and those looking for a shorter, scenic hike.
10. Shoshone Lake Trail
- Distance: 10.7 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Shoshone Lake is the largest backcountry lake in the lower 48 states. This trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests and meadows, leading to the serene shores of the lake.
Tips for Hiking in Yellowstone
- Wildlife Safety: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never approach animals. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Weather Preparedness: Weather in Yellowstone can change rapidly. Be prepared for sudden changes by bringing layers, rain gear, and plenty of water.
- Trail Etiquette: Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect other hikers. LEAVE NO TRACE
Yellowstone National Park offers an incredible variety of hiking experiences. From easy walks to strenuous climbs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re marveling at the geothermal wonders or taking in the sweeping vistas, these trails provide unforgettable adventures in one of the most iconic national parks in the world.