Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic and breathtaking national parks in the United States. With over 2.2 million acres of pristine wilderness, geysers, hot springs, and wildlife, it’s a hiker’s paradise. If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone and want to experience the best of what the park has to offer, be sure to check out these top 10 hikes in Yellowstone National Park that will take you from old faithful to jackson hole.
1. Old Faithful Geyser Loop Trail: Start your Yellowstone adventure with a visit to the park’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful. The Old Faithful Geyser Loop Trail is an easy 1.1-mile hike that takes you around the geyser basin, where you can witness Old Faithful erupting in all its glory.
2. Grand Prismatic Spring: This moderate 3.4-mile hike will take you to one of Yellowstone’s most stunning and colorful thermal features, the Grand Prismatic Spring. The trail offers panoramic views of the spring from above, giving you a unique perspective of this natural wonder.
3. Yellowstone River Picnic Area Loop: For a leisurely hike that takes you through meadows, forests, and along the Yellowstone River, check out the Yellowstone River Picnic Area Loop. This 2.2-mile trail is perfect for a family-friendly outing or a relaxing afternoon stroll.
4. Mount Washburn Trail: If you’re up for a challenge, hike the Mount Washburn Trail. This strenuous 6.2-mile hike takes you to the summit of Mount Washburn, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the park’s vast wilderness.
5. Fairy Falls Trail: For a hike that combines stunning scenery with a visit to a beautiful waterfall, take the Fairy Falls Trail. This 5.4-mile hike leads you through a lush forest to the base of Fairy Falls, a 200-foot waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff.
6. Lamar Valley Trail: Explore the park’s wildlife-rich Lamar Valley on the Lamar Valley Trail. This 4.1-mile hike takes you through one of the best spots in the park to view bison, elk, wolves, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
7. Ribbon Lake Trail: For a hike that takes you through a variety of landscapes, check out the Ribbon Lake Trail. This 4.8-mile hike winds through forests, meadows, and along the shore of Ribbon Lake, offering picturesque views along the way.
8. Storm Point Trail: For a hike that takes you to the shores of Yellowstone Lake, check out the Storm Point Trail. This easy 2.3-mile hike offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, making it a great spot for picnicking or wildlife watching.
9. Bunsen Peak Trail: Hike to the summit of Bunsen Peak on the Bunsen Peak Trail for breathtaking views of the park’s geothermal features and surrounding mountains. This 4.6-mile hike is moderate in difficulty and offers a rewarding payoff at the top.
10. Taggart Lake Trail: End your Yellowstone adventure with a hike on the Taggart Lake Trail in nearby Grand Teton National Park. This 3.3-mile hike takes you through a pine forest to the shores of Taggart Lake, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Teton Range.
From the geysers and hot springs of Yellowstone to the majestic mountains of Grand Teton, these top 10 hikes will take you on an unforgettable journey from Old Faithful to Jackson Hole. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to explore the beauty of America’s first national park, these hikes offer something for everyone. So grab your hiking boots and hit the trails for an adventure you won’t soon forget.
