It is the world’s most extensive volcanic system. The best Yellowstone National Park hikes take you deep into the wonders of this fantastic place. Yellowstone is situated on the top of a supervolcano with three massive eruptions. Each eruption left a legacy in the form of calderas, which we can still see today. This created one of America’s most stunning landscapes. Yellowstone, America’s first national park, has attracted outdoor enthusiasts to see the most extensive collection of geysers in the world, including Old Faithful, since 1872.
There is much more to Yellowstone NP. Yellowstone is a paradise for hikers, with 2,221,766 acres.
Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwest corner of Wyoming. However, it crosses into Montana as well as Idaho.
Hiking in Yellowstone National Park
The Northeast Entrance Road is the most popular way to enter Yellowstone. It connects to five roads and gives you access to the park. This highway will take you from Maine to Yellowstone. Once you get inside, it’ll be like entering a new world. Let’s now get to the best Yellowstone hikes.
North Rim Trail
The North Rim Trail, also known as the Grand Cayon of Yellowstone National Park, is also known. The hike is easy and offers fantastic views. It is 7.6 miles out and back with 250 feet of elevation gain. Inspiration Point is the starting point for your leisurely hike.
The name implies that you will walk along the northern rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. You’ll then continue to Lookout Point. You can see the Lower Falls from here. You can continue to Upper Geyser Basin Falls and Cascade Creek. Crystal Falls and Firehole River run through Upper Geyser Basin. This hike is excellent for families and divided into paved and unpaved sections.
Fairy Falls Trail
Fairy Falls Trail’s rainbows, blues, and greens do justice to its name. Your hike will begin at Fairy Falls trailhead near Midway Geyser Basin.
Parking is available at the trailhead. It’s small, so it fills up quickly. Fountain Flat Drive is also an option. You can also park at Fountain Flat Drive. The 5-mile out-and-back trail takes you to the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook, where you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Prismatic Spring.
You can continue to Fairy Falls Creek or Fairy Falls, but that’s not the end. Continue for 15 minutes and reach the magnificent Imperial Geyser or Spray Geyser.
Midway Geyser Basin Trail
The Midway Geyser Basin Trail (also known as the boardwalk trail) is only 0.8 miles long. Because of the number of boardwalks you can traverse, you are often called a “boardwalk trail” because you can get up close to the Grand Prismatic Spring.
Even more, you can see the purples, blues, and pinks brighten closer to spring from the overlook than they are from the tower. The outlook is worth a visit, as it offers a unique perspective. It is essential to be aware that it is pretty busy, so you should get there early.
Specimen Ridge Trail
It is a 17-mile hike with 3800 feet of elevation gain. This is Yellowstone National Park’s most challenging trail. There are many rewards for those who make the trek. There are many wildlife to see, including bison, bears, and bighorn sheep.
You will enjoy some stunning views of Yellowstone once you have reached the top. It is essential to bring plenty of water as you can get very thirsty in the sun. Bear spray and a map are also necessary.
Lone Star Geyser Trail
The Lone Star Geyser Trail, a 5-and-a-half-mile hike out and back, is easy and flat. The elevation gain is only 121 feet, and the path is paved. Before reaching the geyser payload, you can mosey along Firehole Creek.
Sometimes, the trail may be closed because of wildlife. Please check before you travel to Yellowstone National Park. Each eruption lasts approximately 20 minutes and occurs every 3 hours. Bears are common in the area, so the bear spray is advisable.
This hike is one of the most popular in Yellowstone because everyone wants to see Lone Star Geyser. It is a good idea not to go too early to ensure you have enough space. You can also visit this area of Yellowstone in the latter part of your day.
Observation Point Trail
The Yellowstone Observation Point Trail is a one-and-a-half-mile-long out-and-back trail. This moderate-level trail has a 262-foot elevation gain. It is short but moderately complex. However, the ascent is steep.
You can see Old Faithful from a different angle once you reach the top. It is popular, but you can still enjoy the area if you arrive early or late. You can contact the Faithful Visitors Education Center for more information about the geyser.
