Yellowstone National Park is known for its incredible geothermal features, hiking, wildlife, and beautiful scenery. Although there are many boardwalks and more commonly known hikes, Yellowstone has many other hikes that are lesser known, but still immerse you in nature and give you exactly what a hiker needs. There are many hikes within Yellowstone that won’t be highlighted in this article, but you can visit AllTrails website for more hiking suggestions.
To know before you go hiking in Yellowstone:
-Yellowstone is full of magnificent wildlife and it is likely you could see some on your hikes. It is recommended to bring bear spray if you will be out in the backcountry. Just be aware of how to interact with wildlife if you happen to encounter some on your hike.
-Be aware that it does snow in the winter and gets cold and windy. Most of these hikes are best used from May through October. There are other snow activities available in the winter though.
-Make sure to wear or pack layers because certain hikes are sunny and hot and some can get windy and cold. Also make sure to pack enough water and some snacks!
– We recommend good, sturdy hiking shoes for the moderate to hard hikes.
-In order to access all these hikes you must pay the Yellowstone Park entrance fee. This is $35.00 per vehicle or $30.00 for motorcycles. If you enter on foot, horse, bike the fee is $20.00 per person. There is also an option for an annual pass for $70.00.
Top 8 Hikes in Yellowstone:
All the hikes listed below are in order of easiest to hardest. Hiking in Yellowstone offers a great variety for all skill levels, so you are likely to find a couple hikes that match your hiking style.
Mystic falls
Easy | 2.4 miles | 147 ft elevation gain
Mystic Falls is moderately trafficked so if you are okay with some crowds you will be fine with this hike. A waterfall is featured in this hike and is good for all skill levels. Reviews have shown that this hike is very family friendly.
Fairy Falls
Easy | 4.9 miles | 216 ft elevation gain
Fairy Falls is located near the Grand Prismatic Spring. Because this hike is near the spring many people don’t go on this hike and look at the springs instead. If you are looking to get away from some crowds this could be a good option. The trail itself is mainly gravel. This breezy hike takes you to a gorgeous waterfall.
Bunsen Peak
Moderate | 4.4 miles | 1,282 ft elevation gain
Bunsen Peak leads you to a peak with excellent views of Blacktail Deer Plateau, Swan Lake Flat, Gallatin Mountain Range, and the Yellowstone River Valley. Hikers have said that this hike can be pretty steep, but it is rated as moderate.
Yellowstone Natural Bridge Trail
Moderate | 3.1 miles | 216 ft elevation gain
Yellowstone Natural Bridge is a naturally formed arch by water. A river is featured in this hike. This trail is moderately trafficked. Part of the trail is paved which can help with accessibility and allows for it to be family friendly.
Lamar Valley Trail
Moderate | 7.1 miles | 698 ft elevation gain
Lamar Valley is one of the best places to see wildlife in Yellowstone. If you time the hike right you are likely to see wildlife. This trail also features hot springs, views, and a river. The best time to use this trail for scenic value would be June through August when the wildflowers are in bloom, because you are in a valley. But due to the valley, this hike can get hot in the day due to lack of trees.
Petrified Forest Trail
Hard | 3.5 miles | 1,755 ft elevation gain
The Petrified Forest Trail features some unique things! It has the traditional wildflowers and bird watching, but it has petrified wood along the way. Something you don’t see very often! This trail is also very sunny so be prepared. Towards the top there are stunning views and more petrified trees.
Electric Peak
Hard | 20.3 miles | 5,282 ft elevation gain
If you are looking to get away from the crowds and something very physically challenging, this is the hike for you! Electric peak features a lake and wonderful views of Yellowstone. This trail can be used for hiking, camping, backpacking, and horses are allowed on this trail. Because this hike is more secluded and in the backcountry, you are more likely to see wildlife. Gorgeous wildflowers line this all-day hike. Be prepared for wind at the summit as it is very likely.
Avalanche Peak Trail
Hard | 4.7 miles | 2,073 ft elevation gain
Avalanche Peak Trail is rated as difficult. Although this hike is challenging, there are breathtaking views at the top and it features a lake. Hikers have mentioned that this trail is very rocky and the summit can be very windy.
Yellowstone is perfect for hiking and seeing a variety of things. If you need more ideas for what to do in Yellowstone, see this article for the top 10 things you can’t miss in Yellowstone!
Post written by Hannah Curtis