From Geysers to Canyons: My Adventure Through Yellowstone’s Best Day Hikes

I’m heading to Yellowstone National Park! After wrapping up my summer IT gig in Glacier, I’m excited to explore Yellowstone’s geysers, paint pots, glowing blue pools, and dramatic canyons with cascading waterfalls.

Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, holds the distinction of being the first national park in the United States and is renowned worldwide for its stunning natural features. Spanning nearly 3,500 square miles over a volcanic hot spot, the park is primarily located in Wyoming, with portions extending into Montana and Idaho. Yellowstone is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including bears, bison, wolves, and elk, and is famous for its breathtaking canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs, and iconic geysers like Old Faithful.

Hiking in Yellowstone is a one-of-a-kind experience. While the park is known for attracting large crowds, you can find tranquility and solitude on its backcountry trails. Here are some of the top day hikes to explore during your visit:

Top 8 Day Hikes in Yellowstone

1. Uncle Tom’s Trail
   • Location: South Rim
   • Distance: Short but challenging
   • This trail takes you down a metal staircase with 328 steps, descending 500 feet towards the base of the Lower Falls. The awe-inspiring views of the steep canyon walls and roaring waterfalls make the effort worthwhile.
2. Lava Creek Trail
   • Location: Near Mammoth Campground
   • Distance: 8 miles round-trip
   • Rated moderate to difficult, this scenic trail follows the Gardner River through a rugged canyon. Be prepared for steep terrain and hot conditions, and enjoy the pristine beauty along the way.
3. Mount Washburn Trail
   • Location: North of Canyon Village, Dunraven Pass
   • Distance: 6.4 miles round-trip
   • This moderately rated trail leads to a lookout tower atop Mount Washburn, offering panoramic views. Choose between two routes: Chittenden Road (5.4 miles) or Dunraven Pass (6.4 miles). The lookout provides shelter and unmatched scenery.
4. Fairy Falls Trail
   • Location: North of Old Faithful
   • Distance: 5 miles round-trip
   • An easy hike with incredible views of the Grand Prismatic Spring. The trail meanders through new-growth forest, offering a serene and popular day hike experience.

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5. Bunsen Peak Trail
   • Location: South of Mammoth Hot Springs
   • Distance: 4 miles round-trip
   • This moderately challenging trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of Swan Lake Flat, Gardners Hole, and Mammoth Hot Springs from the summit of the tallest peak in the Gallatin Range.
6. Mystic Falls Trail
   • Location: Near Biscuit Basin
   • Distance: 2.5 miles (loop)
   • This short trail starts at Biscuit Basin and leads to Mystic Falls, with an optional climb to Biscuit Basin Overlook. Enjoy sights of the Little Firehole River and nearby thermal features.
7. Elephant Back Loop Trail
   • Location: Near Lake Village and Fishing Bridge
   • Distance: 2.8 miles round-trip
   • A well-maintained trail with a gradual climb to the summit of Elephant Back Mountain, offering panoramic views of Yellowstone Lake. Ideal for sunrise or sunset hikes.
8. Observation Point Trail
   • Location: Old Faithful Area
   • Distance: 1.1 miles round-trip
   • This easy trail provides a bird’s-eye view of Old Faithful and surrounding thermal features. Hike early in the morning for solitude and the perfect lighting for photos.

Yellowstone Area Map