Hikes in Yellowstone National Park

Hiking in Yellowstone National Park is one of the most rewarding ways to truly experience the park’s incredible diversity — from steaming geyser basins and alpine peaks to lush valleys teeming with wildlife. With more than 900 miles of hiking trails, Yellowstone offers something for every level of adventurer, from short family-friendly walks to multi-day backcountry treks. 

Each area of the park reveals a different side of its vast wilderness, making hiking here not just an activity, but a journey through a living, breathing landscape that has remained largely untouched for thousands of years.

Quick Reference: Famous Hikes in Yellowstone National Park

This quick-reference table provides an overview of Yellowstone’s top hiking trails across all seven regions — Upper Geyser Basin, Canyon, Tower-Roosevelt, Lamar Valley, Lake Village, Bechler Region, and Mammoth Hot Springs.

Hikes in Upper Geyser Basin Area

The Upper Geyser Basin, home to the iconic Old Faithful, is one of the most active geothermal areas on Earth, offering several fascinating hikes that combine geological wonder with scenic beauty. 

1. Old Faithful to Observation Point Trail

The Old Faithful to Observation Point Trail is a short but rewarding 1.1-mile round trip that takes visitors above the famous geyser, offering an elevated view of the eruptions and the steaming basin below. It’s a must-do for first-time visitors who want to see Old Faithful from a unique perspective away from the crowds. 

2. Fairy Falls Trail

For those looking for a longer adventure, the Fairy Falls Trail, about 5 miles round trip, leads to one of Yellowstone’s most beautiful waterfalls, dropping gracefully from a height of 200 feet. The trail passes through lodgepole pine forests and offers views of the Grand Prismatic Spring from a nearby overlook, one of the most photographed sights in the park.

Fairy Falls Trail

3. Mystic Falls Trail

Another gem in this area is the Mystic Falls Trail, a 2.4-mile round trip that starts at Biscuit Basin. This moderate hike follows a lovely path along the Firehole River before climbing to a stunning overlook of Mystic Falls, surrounded by colorful thermal features.

Hikes in Canyon Area

The Canyon Area, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone,” offers hikes that showcase the park’s dramatic geological history and incredible viewpoints.

1. Uncle Tom’s Trail

Uncle Tom’s Trail, though short at just 0.6 miles round trip, is an exhilarating hike that descends steep steel staircases along the canyon wall to a platform near the base of the 308-foot Lower Falls. The effort is well worth it for one of the most breathtaking views in Yellowstone. 

Uncle Tom’s Trail

2. South Rim Trail

The South Rim Trail, stretching 4.1 miles round trip, offers a more leisurely experience with panoramic vistas of both Upper and Lower Falls, culminating at Artist Point — one of the most photographed spots in the park. 

South Rim Trail

3. North Rim Trail

Across the canyon, the North Rim Trail, about 3 miles round trip, takes hikers to several scenic overlooks including Lookout Point and Grand View, providing a different but equally stunning perspective of the canyon’s golden walls.

Hikes in Tower-Roosevelt Area

The Tower-Roosevelt region combines rugged mountain terrain with historical charm.

1. Mount Washburn Trail

The Mount Washburn Trail is one of Yellowstone’s most popular summit hikes, offering a 6-mile round trip climb to a 10,243-foot peak. From the top, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views that stretch across the park to the Teton Range and beyond. The trail is well-maintained and often dotted with wildflowers in summer. 

2. Lost Lake Loop

Another favorite in this area is the Lost Lake Loop, a 2.8-mile round trip that begins near Roosevelt Lodge. It meanders through rolling meadows and forests to a quiet lake that reflects the surrounding hills, making it a perfect spot for solitude and wildlife spotting.

Hikes in Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is a hiker’s paradise for those seeking wildlife encounters and wide-open views. 

1. Lamar River Trail

The Lamar River Trail, approximately 10 miles round trip, follows the gentle flow of the Lamar River deep into the valley’s backcountry. It’s common to spot bison, pronghorn, and even wolves in the distance. Early mornings or evenings are especially magical when the valley glows under soft light. 

2. Slough Creek Trail

The Slough Creek Trail, 7 miles round trip to the first meadow, offers another scenic journey through peaceful meadows and along a pristine creek. It’s an excellent trail for fly-fishing enthusiasts and one of the best places to observe Yellowstone’s wolves in their natural habitat.

Hikes in Lake Village Area

The Lake Village Area, centered around Yellowstone Lake, provides serene hiking options that combine water views with forested paths. 

1. Elephant Back Mountain Trail

The Elephant Back Mountain Trail, a 3.5-mile round trip, climbs steadily through pine forests to a sweeping overlook of Yellowstone Lake and the Absaroka Range beyond. It’s a moderately challenging trail that rewards hikers with one of the most picturesque lake views in the park. 

2. Storm Point Trail

For a gentler option, the Storm Point Trail, a 2.3-mile round trip, loops through open meadows and along the lakeshore, where visitors often see marmots and birds nesting in rocky outcrops. The breeze from the lake and the sound of waves lapping against the shore create a tranquil hiking experience.

Hikes in Bechler Region

The Bechler Region, often called “Yellowstone’s Cascade Corner,” is the park’s best-kept secret for serious backcountry hikers. 

1. Bechler River Trail

The Bechler River Trail is a legendary 30-mile one-way trek that traverses remote terrain filled with waterfalls, hot springs, and lush meadows. It’s typically done as a multi-day backpacking trip, requiring planning and a backcountry permit. Along the route, hikers encounter several natural hot springs where they can soak surrounded by wilderness. 

2. Dunanda Falls Trail

The Dunanda Falls Trail, 16 miles round trip, is another highlight of this region. It leads to a spectacular 150-foot waterfall that cascades into a steaming pool — one of the most remarkable natural hot springs in the park. The journey through remote meadows and rivers makes this hike a true wilderness adventure for experienced hikers.

Hikes in Mammoth Hot Springs Area

In the northern part of the park, the Mammoth Hot Springs region blends geothermal beauty with mountain scenery. 

1. Beaver Ponds Loop

The Beaver Ponds Loop, a 5-mile round trip, starts near the Mammoth Terrace area and winds through forests and open meadows, offering chances to see elk, black bears, and waterfowl. It’s a peaceful and scenic hike, especially in early morning light. 

2. Bunsen Peak Trail

For a more challenging climb, the Bunsen Peak Trail offers a 4.6-mile round trip hike to one of the most prominent summits in northern Yellowstone. The trail zigzags through pine forests and wildflower meadows, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Gallatin Range and Mammoth Hot Springs below.

Yellowstone National Park Lodging: Where to Stay Inside America’s Wild Wonderland

Staying inside Yellowstone National Park is one of the most immersive ways to experience the beauty and grandeur of America’s first national park. The vast wilderness, steaming geysers, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife take on an entirely new magic when you wake up to the sound of elk bugling in the distance or step outside your cabin to see the sunrise over a misty meadow.

Yellowstone offers a range of lodging options, from historic lodges filled with rustic charm to modern accommodations that provide a bit more comfort while keeping you close to nature. Every corner of the park tells a different story, and where you choose to stay can shape the kind of Yellowstone experience you’ll remember forever.

Quick Reference: Yellowstone National Park Lodging

Note: All Yellowstone National Park lodgings are managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Xanterra). Reservations open up 12 months in advance and are strongly recommended for summer stays.

Old Faithful Inn

At the heart of the park lies the Old Faithful Inn, a masterpiece of log and stone architecture that has become an icon of Yellowstone’s early tourism history. Built in 1904, this grand lodge is one of the largest log structures in the world and sits just steps away from the legendary Old Faithful Geyser. Its towering lobby, featuring a massive stone fireplace and handcrafted woodwork, captures the spirit of the early 20th century when national park travel was still an adventure. 

Guests can choose from historic rooms with a rustic charm or modern annex rooms with updated amenities. Even if you’re not staying here, a visit to the Old Faithful Inn to witness the geyser erupt from the balcony or enjoy a warm drink in the lodge’s lounge is an unforgettable experience.

Old Faithful Inn

Old Faithful Inn

Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins

Just across the geyser basin, Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins provides a more contemporary stay while keeping you close to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders. Built in the 1990s, it offers comfortable rooms and cozy log cabins with modern amenities. The Snow Lodge remains open in winter, making it one of the few places to stay in the park during the snowy months. 

Visitors can enjoy guided snowcoach tours, cross-country skiing, and steaming hot chocolate by the fire after a day of exploring the frozen geysers. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking comfort without sacrificing proximity to nature.

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins

In the northern region of the park, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins sits near the park’s North Entrance and the fascinating terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs. This area is open year-round and has a charming, frontier-town feel. The historic hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and classic design, featuring rooms that overlook the terraces or the surrounding mountains. 

During winter, when much of the park is closed to vehicles, Mammoth becomes the main hub for winter adventurers. Guests can take snowcoach rides, spot elk wandering through the hotel grounds, or relax by the warm glow of the Map Room fireplace after a day in the cold.

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins

Canyon Lodge and Cabins

For visitors drawn to Yellowstone’s majestic Grand Canyon area, Canyon Lodge and Cabins offers one of the largest lodging complexes in the park. Recently renovated, this area blends sustainability with style, featuring eco-friendly design and comfortable modern rooms. 

Its location near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone makes it ideal for exploring the dramatic Lower and Upper Falls and hiking the scenic trails that wind through the canyon rim. 

The surrounding pine forest gives the area a tranquil, mountain-lodge atmosphere, and the central village includes a cafeteria, gift shop, and visitor center for convenience.

Canyon Lodge and Cabins

Lake Hotel and Cabins

On the shores of Yellowstone Lake, the Lake Hotel and Cabins offer an elegant and timeless stay that feels like stepping back into the early 1900s. With its white columns, yellow exterior, and grand dining room overlooking the lake, the Lake Hotel is one of Yellowstone’s oldest operating lodges. 

Guests can enjoy breathtaking lake views, fine dining, and an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Just nearby, the Lake Lodge Cabins offer a more casual experience, with cozy cabins surrounded by pine trees and easy access to the lakeshore. 

The area is peaceful and scenic, ideal for travelers who want to unwind and enjoy sunsets over the water or take leisurely walks along the shoreline.

Lake Hotel and Cabins

Grant Village

Toward the eastern part of the park, Grant Village provides a modern and functional base for exploring the southern regions of Yellowstone and nearby Grand Teton National Park. The complex includes hotel-style rooms, a visitor center, a marina, and restaurants, all set near the southern shore of Yellowstone Lake. 

While it may not have the historic charm of some other lodges, Grant Village offers convenience, especially for travelers who prefer private bathrooms, warm showers, and easy access to park roads. The nearby Grant Visitor Center provides engaging exhibits about the 1988 Yellowstone fires, adding a fascinating layer of history to your stay.

Grant Village

Grant Village

Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins

For those who want to embrace the park’s wild character, Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins near Tower-Roosevelt offers a rustic and adventurous experience reminiscent of early 1900s camping trips. Named after President Theodore Roosevelt, who once camped nearby, this area embodies the spirit of the Old West. 

Guests can stay in simple log cabins surrounded by sagebrush meadows and towering mountains, and enjoy horseback riding, chuckwagon dinners, and storytelling around a campfire. The atmosphere here feels remote and authentic, making it a favorite among travelers seeking a deeper connection with Yellowstone’s rugged landscape.

Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins

Conclusion

Yellowstone’s lodging options extend beyond these well-known lodges, with smaller cabins and accommodations spread throughout the park to fit different budgets and travel styles. Each location has its own rhythm and landscape—from the geothermal fields of Old Faithful to the alpine forests around Canyon or the lakefront calm of Lake Village. It’s important to remember that all in-park lodging is managed by a single concessionaire, and reservations can book up months in advance, especially during the summer season from June through September. Planning early is essential for securing your ideal stay.

Whether you choose a grand historic lodge or a simple cabin under the stars, staying inside Yellowstone allows you to experience the park in ways that day visitors cannot. You can watch geysers erupt in the quiet of early morning, see wildlife moving through the meadows at dusk, and feel the timeless rhythm of nature without rushing back to the park’s gates. Yellowstone’s lodges aren’t just places to rest—they’re part of the park’s living history, each one offering a unique doorway into the untamed heart of the American wilderness.

Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park 

Camping in Yellowstone National Park is one of the best ways to truly experience the park’s vast wilderness, steaming geysers, abundant wildlife, and peaceful starry nights. Whether you’re traveling with an RV, pitching a tent beside a river, or hiking deep into the backcountry, Yellowstone’s campgrounds offer something for everyone. 

With over 2,000 campsites scattered across multiple regions of the park, each campground has its own unique charm, setting, and amenities. Knowing what to expect can help you plan an unforgettable stay in America’s first national park.

Quick Reference: Yellowstone National Park Campgrounds

Madison Campground

One of the most popular and centrally located campgrounds is Madison Campground, nestled near the park’s West Entrance along the scenic Madison River. It’s a favorite among travelers because of its proximity to key attractions such as Old Faithful, the Geyser Basins, and the town of West Yellowstone. 

Madison offers 278 campsites for both tents and RVs, and while it doesn’t provide showers, it makes up for it with essentials like flush toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. The river nearby creates a soothing backdrop, especially at dusk when elk often wander close by. 

Visitors should note that this campground operates seasonally, typically from mid-June to mid-September, so early reservations are highly recommended.

Canyon Campground

If you’re seeking dramatic views and easy access to one of Yellowstone’s most stunning natural wonders, Canyon Campground is the perfect choice. Located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, this area provides an unforgettable base for exploring the famous waterfalls and canyon trails. 

With 273 sites suitable for both tents and RVs, Canyon Campground offers basic amenities such as flush toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. There are no showers, but food storage boxes are provided for safety. 

It’s generally open from mid-June to early September, making summer the ideal time to enjoy cool canyon breezes and evening campfires.

Bridge Bay Campground

For those drawn to Yellowstone’s vast waterscapes, Bridge Bay Campground on the eastern shore of Yellowstone Lake offers breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings. 

With 432 sites, it’s one of the larger campgrounds in the park, accommodating both tents and RVs. The cool lake air and the sound of gentle waves provide a relaxing camping atmosphere. While there are no showers available, visitors will find flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and secure food storage boxes. 

Bridge Bay is open from mid-June to mid-September and is especially popular among anglers, kayakers, and wildlife photographers hoping to spot otters or bald eagles along the lakeshore.

Grant Village Campground

Not far from Bridge Bay is Grant Village Campground, located near the southern shore of Yellowstone Lake. This site is a convenient stop for those entering the park from the South Entrance or traveling toward Grand Teton National Park. 

With 430 campsites for both tents and RVs, Grant Village combines rustic charm with a few extra comforts. Flush toilets, potable water, and picnic tables are available, and campers have access to showers and laundry facilities at the nearby Grant Village complex. 

Open from mid-June to mid-September, this campground offers an excellent balance of nature and convenience, with stores, a restaurant, and a visitor center just a short walk away.

Fishing Bridge RV Park

For RV travelers, Fishing Bridge RV Park stands out as Yellowstone’s only campground with full hookups for water, electricity, and sewer. Located near the Fishing Bridge area and the northern shore of Yellowstone Lake, this campground offers 325 RV-only sites—no tent camping is allowed due to bear activity in the area. 

In addition to full hookups, visitors enjoy flush toilets, showers, and a general store nearby. Fishing Bridge serves as a great base for exploring the lake region and nearby wildlife viewing areas. 

It’s open from mid-June to mid-September, and because it’s one of the few RV-friendly campgrounds with full services, it tends to fill up quickly.

Norris Campground

In the heart of the park, near the geothermal wonderland of Norris Geyser Basin, lies Norris Campground. Though smaller, with only about 100 sites, it provides a quiet and natural atmosphere ideal for those who love hot springs and geysers. It accommodates both tents and small RVs, offering flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and food storage boxes. However, there are no showers. 

Norris Campground is typically open from mid-June to mid-September and provides easy access to hiking trails, the Museum of the National Park Ranger, and scenic drives connecting major attractions like Mammoth Hot Springs and Canyon Village.

Roosevelt Lodge Campground

For visitors looking for a more old-fashioned camping experience, Roosevelt Lodge Campground near Tower-Roosevelt offers a rustic retreat in the northern part of Yellowstone. 

With just 76 sites, it provides a peaceful escape surrounded by sagebrush meadows and distant mountain views. Campers enjoy flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and food storage boxes, though there are no showers on-site. 

Open from mid-June to mid-September, this campground captures the spirit of the early park explorers and is close to horseback riding, stagecoach cookouts, and wildlife-rich valleys where bison and pronghorn roam freely.

Lamar Valley Campground

For those craving solitude and a closer connection to Yellowstone’s wild heart, Lamar Valley Campground is a dream come true. Tucked deep into the park’s northeastern corner, this small campground offers only 16 sites, making it an intimate and rugged spot for tent campers. 

The area is famous for its wildlife—particularly wolves, bears, and herds of bison that often pass nearby. Facilities are minimal, with vault toilets and picnic tables but no potable water or showers, so visitors must bring their own supplies. 

Lamar Valley Campground is open from mid-July to early September and is best suited for experienced campers who prioritize nature over convenience.

Backcountry Camping

Beyond these established front-country campgrounds, Yellowstone offers a world of adventure through backcountry camping. Accessible only by hiking or boating, backcountry sites provide a true wilderness experience far from crowds and noise. 

Among the most notable are the Shoshone Lake Campground, which can be reached via trails or by canoe across Lewis Lake, offering serene isolation beside one of the largest backcountry lakes in the lower 48 states. 

Another gem is the Mystic Falls Campground, nestled near the waterfall of the same name and reachable by a scenic hike through meadows and thermal areas. These backcountry sites require permits, which help regulate visitor impact and preserve the pristine environment for future explorers.