Yellowstone Hiking / Hikes

Yellowstone National Park, encompassing 2.2 million acres, is one of America’s premier hiking destinations. Yellowstone hiking trails range from short, easy boardwalk treks past top attractions to long, challenging backcountry journeys through vast wilderness.

More than 1,100 miles of trails are available for Yellowstone hiking year-round. Enjoy one of the popular day self-guided hikes available or get yourself outfitted for an extended guided journey into backcountry wilderness.

Before You Go
Visiting wilderness means experiencing the land on its terms. If you choose to explore and enjoy the natural wonders of Yellowstone, there is no guarantee of your safety. Be prepared for anything! Carefully read all backcountry guidelines and regulations.

Where To Start
Begin at a ranger station or visitor center – these are great places to get maps and directions to trailheads and other information. While no permit is required for day hiking, you can learn about changing trail conditions, bear activity, rain or snow storms, high water and fires that may temporarily close trails.

What To Bring
At a minimum, wear sturdy shoes and carry water, a whistle, a raincoat/poncho, a warm hat, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. It is recommended that you hike with another person. If you must drink water from lakes or streams, boil it first or filter it to reduce infection.

Top Hikes

• The Bridge Bay and Fishing Bridge and Lake hiking area is extremely popular with families offering a variety of ½ hour to 2-hour roundtrip hikes, offering spectacular views of Yellowstone’s amazing geothermal features like geysers, mud pots, and hot springs.
• Looking for an epic multi-day, backpacking Yellowstone hike? Consider hiking around Heart Lake at the base of Mt. Sheridan. Make sure you can get a campsite as the competition is challenging in the summer and be especially aware of possible bear activity in this area.
• If you only have a half day to hike Yellowstone, check out the 3-hour roundtrip Lupine Loop Walk along the upper Grand Canyon of Yellowstone River, featuring meadows, forest, and a sample of Yellowstone backcountry.

Hiker/Bicyclist Campsites
Camping for front country hikers or bicyclists is limited to developed YNP campgrounds. Campsites can be reserved via Xanterra Parks and Resorts on a first come, first served basis. Get a same-day reservation by calling: (307) 344-7901. For future reservations, call (307) 344-7311. Limited campsites are reserved for hikers and bicyclists at all campgrounds except Slough Creek. Camping is not available at Old Faithful.

Leave No Trace
Do your part to preserve Yellowstone National Park!

• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors