Top 10 Hikes In Yellowstone National Park, The US

hiking in yellowstone
Faraz
Faraz 
Published
| 4 min read

Yellowstone National Park is a picturesque recreation area with several hikes and trails that have varying levels of difficulty. The national park is located on top of a volcano. The park covers an area of approximately 3500 square miles (9064 square kilometers). It boasts green forests, basins, rivers, geysers, and more. Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the US, is located in this park as well. It is safe to say that there’s something for everyone as it also offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to its visitors. Offering a wide diversity of environments, it is hard not to be amazed by this place. Excited to visit with your family or friends soon? Check out our lists of the top 10 hikes in Yellowstone National Park, the US.

1. Uncle Tom's Trail

Lower Falls viewed from Uncle Tom's Trail
Source: Photo by Flickr user Yellowstone Natio... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Uncle Tom’s Trail is an easy, paved trail that features views of Upper Falls and Grand Canyon. The trail remains closed in winters. It is an intermediate trail that can be a bit challenging for some people. It takes you to Lower Falls that is located at 308 feet (93 meters) so if you’re someone who is afraid of heights, this trail may be a bit tough for you. The views are lovely and definitely worth the effort.

Uncle Tom's Trail

Address: Uncle Tom’s Trail, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

Website: Uncle Tom’s Trail

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2. The Thorofare and South Boundary Trail

Thorofare Trail
Source: Photo by Flickr user Yellowstone Natio... used under CC BY 2.0

The Thorofare and South Boundary Trail is a 108-kilometer (68 miles) trail. Given the distance it covers, it is a greatly challenging trail that is only ideal for experienced travelers. There is a lot that one can do on the trail such as trying horseback riding or camping on the trail. Get ready to witness stunning views of the lake coupled with the beautiful backdrop of nature.

The Thorofare and South Boundary Trail

Address: The Thorofare and South Boundary Trail, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

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3. Boiling River Trail

Boiling River Trail
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user XeresNelro used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Located in Mammoth Hot Springs, Boiling River Trail is an easy 1.3-mile (2 kilometers) hike. This is one of the most intriguing and mysterious spots. It is called the boiling river because the water of this river reaches over 100 degrees. It mixes with Gardner River, making a blend of amazing warm water where visitors can take a dip. Enjoy swimming in the water after hours of hiking.

Boiling River Trail

Address: Boiling River Trail, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

Website: Boiling River Trail

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4. Upper Geyser Basin Trail

Upper Geyser Basin
Source: Photo by Flickr user Ken Lund used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Upper Geyser Basin Trail is a 4-mile (7.2 kilometers) trail that remains bustling with crowds. It is also a child-friendly trail that is perfect for beginners. It is a great place to witness Old Faithful Geyser and the beautiful Upper Geyser Basin. Enjoy walking through the paved ways and witness the scenic beauty of the place. It is best to hike on this trail in the months of May to October.

Upper Geyser Basin Trail

Address: Upper Geyser Basin, Wyoming 82190, USA

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5. Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail

Grand Prismatic Spring
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user James St. John fr... used under CC BY 2.0

Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail is a short family-friendly trail that features excellent views. It takes approximately half an hour to reach the viewing area. The view from the top is breathtaking and features the iconic hot spring. It is recommended to go on a sunny day to watch the bright colors of the hot spring. Make sure to click lots of pictures so you have something to remember your trip by.

Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

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6. Mount Washburn Trail

Mount Washburn trail
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Thomson200 used under CC0

Mount Washburn Trail is a well-frequented 6-mile (9.6 kilometers) trail that takes you through wooded slopes until you reach the top of Mount Washburn. It begins and ends at the same point. The trail is an intermediate one and maybe a bit difficult and challenging for some. There is a fire lookout where you can look at extensive exhibits. This trail offers panoramic views of Dunraven Peak. On your way, you will come across beautiful wildflowers and bighorn sheep on the slope. You may even come across grizzly bears so it is recommended to carry some spray with you.

Mount Washburn Trail

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

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7. Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin
Source: Photo by Flickr user Yellowstone Natio... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Norris Geyser Basin happens to be the world’s tallest active geyser. It is one of the hottest areas in the national park. The trail starts at Norris Museum that features several exhibits about geothermal geology. Norris Geyser Basin has vibrant, multicolored water spewing out. There is also a pungent smell of sulfur which only adds to the experience.

Norris Geyser Basin

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

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8. Mammoth Hot Springs Area Trail

Mammoth Hot Springs
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user The Dye Clan used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Mammoth Hot Springs Area Trail is located near Gardiner, Montana. This 4-mile (6 kilometers) long trail is ideal for beginners. It also boasts stunning views with its stunning waterfall. The symphony of water is so soothing and refreshing to the ears. The trail is only accessible in the winter months if one wears snowshoes or skis. It definitely gets cold so it is recommended to layer up. While here, you can either indulge in bird-watching or simply enjoy hiking along the trail.

Mammoth Hot Springs Area Trail

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

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9. DeLacy Creek Trail

DeLacy Creek Trail
Source: Photo by Flickr user Yellowstone Natio... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

DeLacy Creek Trail is a 7.4-mile (11.9 kilometers) trail that begins at Old Faithful Geyser and crosses DeLacy Creek. It features a serene lake and beautiful views of DeLacy meadows. The trail takes you through the eastern end of the meadows towards DeLacy Lake (named after Walter DeLacy) or Shoshone Lake. While the trail mostly takes you through the lanes of lush trees, it offers you the occasional glimpse of the lake. Get a whiff of nature, explore the forests, and spend some quality time surrounded by lush foliage.

DeLacy Creek Trail

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States

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10. West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail

West Thumb Basin
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user InSapphoWeTrust used under CC BY-SA 2.0

West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail is a 1-mile trail (1.6 kilometers) located in Yellowstone National Park. This trail features a lovely lake. It is recommended to use this trail in the months of May to October. There’s a lot to see on the way and one can indulge in birdwatching or hiking. It is definitely beginner-friendly and people who are new to hiking will enjoy walking on this trail.

West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail

Address: West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail, Wyoming 82190, USA

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Explore the beautiful hiking trails of Yellowstone National Park

If you are planning to go hiking with your family or friends soon, Yellowstone National Park offers some of the most amazing trails coupled with stunning views. While creating your travel agenda, don’t forget to check out our list of the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park, The US. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable hiking experience in this wonderland.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Faraz Khan is a part-time content writer who loves stargazing, cloud-watching and reading poetry and fiction. He's also a Wonder Woman fan.

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