Best Hikes in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is famous for Old Faithful and colorful hot springs—but it’s also a hiker’s paradise. With over 900 miles of trails across alpine peaks, waterfalls, geyser basins, and wildlife-rich valleys, there’s no shortage of adventure. Here are the best hikes to explore the raw beauty of America’s first national park.

1. Fairy Falls Trail (with Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook)

Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Trail Highlights: Geyser basin views, Grand Prismatic Overlook, 200-foot waterfall

Start at the Fairy Falls trailhead near Midway Geyser Basin. A short detour leads to the iconic overlook of Grand Prismatic Spring, followed by a flat trail to one of Yellowstone’s most picturesque waterfalls.

Pro Tip: Go early for fewer crowds and better photo lighting.

2. Mount Washburn via Dunraven Pass

Distance: 6.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Highlights: Panoramic summit views, wildflowers, potential for bear sightings

One of the most popular hikes in the park, Mount Washburn offers sweeping views over the park’s northern range. You might spot bighorn sheep near the summit.

Pro Tip: Bring bear spray—this is prime grizzly habitat.

3. Uncle Tom’s Trail

Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous (steep metal staircase)
Trail Highlights: Close-up view of Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

This short but dramatic trail descends a series of steel stairs to a jaw-dropping viewpoint of Yellowstone’s powerful Lower Falls.

Pro Tip: Not for those with vertigo or bad knees. It’s a quad-burner on the way back up.

4. Lamar Valley Trail

Distance: Varies (out-and-back trail)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Trail Highlights: Wildlife viewing, bison herds, wide open landscapes

Often called the “Serengeti of North America,” Lamar Valley is a great place for wildlife viewing on foot. Expect bison, elk, and possibly wolves (from a distance).

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and stay alert. Animals always have the right-of-way.

5. Lone Star Geyser Trail

Distance: 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Highlights: Backcountry geyser, forested trail, bike-friendly

This quieter trail leads to a cone geyser that erupts roughly every 3 hours. It’s a peaceful alternative to the crowded boardwalks near Old Faithful.

Pro Tip: Bikes allowed—makes for a fun half-day ride and hike.

Yellowstone Hiking Tips

Carry bear spray and know how to use it
Stay on marked trails (thermal features are dangerous)
Layer up—weather shifts quickly

Recommended Gear

Ultralight trekking poles (we recommend these)
Bear spray & belt holster
Daypack with hydration bladder
Binoculars
Grippy hiking boots
Sun hat & breathable layers

Get equipped for geysers and grizzlies. Shop our Yellowstone Collection featuring park-inspired apparel and backcountry-ready gear.

When to Visit

Late Spring–Early Fall: Best trail access and wildlife viewing
Fall: Quieter and full of elk bugles
Winter: Guided snowshoe and ski tours only

Final Thoughts

From thundering waterfalls to steaming geyser basins and wildlife-packed valleys, Yellowstone’s hiking trails are as diverse as they are dramatic. Just be prepared, stay safe, and take it all in.

Planning your Yellowstone trip? Grab the gear you need for the wildest trails in the West → Shop Now