Explore Yellowstone: The Ultimate Guide to Its Top 5 Hiking Spots

From the panoramic views of Mount Washburn to the serene beauty of Fairy Falls, explore Yellowstone National Park's top hiking destinations. Find out why these trails are must-visits for nature lovers.

Jun 21, 2021; Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA / News-Press-USA TODAY NETWORK

Yellowstone National Park, known for being America's first national park, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the most scenic and diverse hiking experiences in the country. Here are the top five hiking destinations in Yellowstone that promise unforgettable adventures and stunning natural beauty.

1. Mount Washburn

Mount Washburn is arguably the most popular hiking destination in Yellowstone. The trail to the summit is approximately 6 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,400 feet. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the park and the surrounding mountain ranges. The lookout tower at the summit provides a vantage point for spotting wildlife such as bighorn sheep and even grizzly bears. The trail is accessible from two starting points: the Dunraven Pass and the Chittenden Road, each offering unique perspectives of the park's diverse ecosystems.

A wild bison enjoying the grass of Yellowstone. /

2. Uncle Tom’s Trail

For those looking for a shorter but more intense hike, Uncle Tom’s Trail is an excellent choice. This trail descends over 300 steps into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, bringing hikers close to the base of the Lower Falls. The strenuous descent is well worth the effort, as the view of the 308-foot waterfall and the vibrant canyon walls is nothing short of spectacular. The trail is only about half a mile round trip, but the steep stairs make it a challenging hike that promises a great workout and incredible scenery.

3. Fairy Falls

Fairy Falls is a moderate hike that spans 5 miles round trip, leading to one of Yellowstone’s most beautiful waterfalls. The trailhead starts at the Grand Prismatic Spring overlook, offering hikers a chance to view the park's largest hot spring from above. The trail then winds through a lodgepole pine forest before reaching the 200-foot Fairy Falls. This hike is perfect for those looking to experience both Yellowstone’s geothermal features and its serene natural beauty.

4. Avalanche Peak

Avalanche Peak offers a more strenuous adventure for experienced hikers. This 4-mile round trip hike gains over 2,000 feet in elevation, providing a challenging climb that rewards with breathtaking alpine scenery. From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Yellowstone Lake, the Absaroka Range, and the Teton Range. This trail is best hiked in late summer when the snow has melted, and the weather is more predictable.

A map of the Avalanche Peak hiking trail. / National Park Service

5. Lone Star Geyser

For a unique geothermal experience, the Lone Star Geyser trail is an easy 5-mile round trip hike that follows the Firehole River. The trail leads to the Lone Star Geyser, which erupts approximately every three hours, shooting water up to 45 feet in the air. This trail offers a more secluded and peaceful hike compared to the more crowded geyser basins, making it a great choice for those seeking tranquility.

These top five hiking destinations in Yellowstone National Park offer a variety of experiences, from challenging summit climbs to serene waterfall views and fascinating geothermal features. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual visitor, Yellowstone's trails promise unforgettable adventures and stunning natural beauty.