The Best Hikes in Yellowstone: Picked by the Old Faithful and Friends staff

Yellowstone National Park is a place of unparalleled natural beauty, home to geysers, hot springs, wildlife, and towering mountains. Whether you're looking for a short walk or an adventurous summit, there's something for everyone here. At Old Faithful and Friends, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring Yellowstone’s most breathtaking trails, and today, we’re excited to share our picks for the best hikes in the park—without the crowds.

One of the biggest draws of these hikes is that they offer a chance to experience the majestic beauty of Yellowstone without the throngs of visitors that crowd the more popular areas, like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Our team loves these hidden gems, and we’re thrilled to share them with you!

1. Storm Point Trail: A Lakeside Stroll with Scenic Views

If you’re after a hike that offers fantastic views with relatively easy terrain, the Storm Point Trail is a perfect choice. At just 2.0 miles round-trip, this trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from forested areas to wide-open views of Yellowstone Lake. Along the way, you’ll experience serene shorelines, rocky outcrops, and a fantastic chance to spot local wildlife, including bison and elk.

This hike is suitable for most skill levels and provides the perfect opportunity to relax and take in the natural beauty of Yellowstone Lake. Be sure to check out Storm Point itself – the area offers some of the best lake views in the entire park. And the best part? It’s far less crowded than some of the more popular lakeside trails, allowing you to enjoy the peace and solitude of this stunning setting.

2. Purple Mountain Trail: A Steep Climb with Rewarding Views

For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, Purple Mountain delivers! This 4.6-mile round-trip hike offers a strenuous climb to the top of Purple Mountain, which rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding park, including Yellowstone Lake, Lake Yellowstone, and the Absaroka Range.

The trail can be steep at times, but the payoff is worth it: you’ll be treated to an expansive vista that showcases the heart of Yellowstone. This hike is perfect for intermediate hikers who enjoy a challenge but also want a scenic experience to match their effort. Don’t forget your camera, as the vistas are incredible, especially at sunset. Plus, it’s a great option if you're looking to avoid the crowds often found on other more famous hikes.

3. Electric Peak: A Long Hike for Adventurers

If you’re an experienced hiker looking for an epic adventure, we highly recommend Electric Peak. This long and challenging hike takes you to one of the highest points in Yellowstone, standing at 10,979 feet above sea level. The Electric Peak Trail spans around 18 miles round-trip, with a total elevation gain of 5,100 feet, making it one of the most demanding hikes in the park.

While the trail is not for the faint of heart, those who make it to the top are treated to unparalleled views of the surrounding Yellowstone Wilderness, including Lamar Valley and Gardiner River. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife along the way, including bighorn sheep and elk. The great news is that this hike is more remote than many others, meaning you can escape the crowds and truly immerse yourself in the park’s wilderness.

4. Mystic Falls Trail: A Hidden Waterfall

For a shorter yet visually stunning hike, Mystic Falls is a must-see. This 2.4-mile round-trip trail takes you to one of Yellowstone’s hidden gems—Mystic Falls, a beautiful 70-foot waterfall tucked away in the park's scenic Firehole River area. The hike features a moderate incline, but the views are more than worth the effort.

The trail offers excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife, and the falls are particularly breathtaking in the early morning light. It's a great option for those who want to experience the park's beauty without committing to a long hike. Plus, Mystic Falls tends to be less crowded than other waterfall hikes in the park, giving you a chance to enjoy the sound of the falls in solitude.

5. Fairy Falls Trail: A Majestic Waterfall Experience

Just 0.4 miles past Mystic Falls is the stunning Fairy Falls, one of Yellowstone's most iconic waterfalls. The Fairy Falls Trail is an easy 5.4-mile round-trip hike that brings you to a towering 200-foot waterfall nestled in a lush forested area. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic viewpoints of the Firehole River and a wide variety of wildflowers in the summer months.

Fairy Falls is particularly beautiful in spring and early summer when the snowmelt increases the flow, creating a powerful cascade of water. This trail is also much less crowded than the more famous waterfalls in the park, allowing you to enjoy this magical spot without the hustle and bustle of other tourists.

6. Bunsen Peak Trail: A Classic Yellowstone Hike

For a bit of a longer and more challenging hike, Bunsen Peak offers an unforgettable experience. This 4.0-mile round-trip hike leads you to the summit of Bunsen Peak, where you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Lamar Valley, Gardiner River, and Yellowstone’s caldera. The trail is moderately strenuous, with an elevation gain of 1,400 feet, but the panoramic views from the summit make it all worthwhile.

Along the way, you’ll pass through a forested environment and see unique geological features. At the summit, the 360-degree views are spectacular, giving you an opportunity to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of Yellowstone. This trail tends to be less crowded than some of the park’s more famous hikes, making it a fantastic way to experience the park’s grandeur in peace.

7. Hellroaring Creek Trail: A Remote Adventure

For those who want to experience a more remote section of Yellowstone, the Hellroaring Creek Trail is a hidden treasure. This 6.2-mile round-trip hike takes you through a forested canyon along the Hellroaring Creek, offering a peaceful, quiet escape from the more crowded areas of the park. The trail is a bit rougher, with a moderate incline, but the serenity and beauty of the canyon make it a rewarding journey.

The hike leads you to Hellroaring Creek’s rocky cliffs and offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. You might even spot some elk or bison along the way, or hear the distant sounds of the creek as it rushes over rocks. If you're looking for solitude and a chance to get away from the more tourist-heavy spots, this trail will give you that Yellowstone experience you’ve been craving.

8.Best Yellowstone Hikes:

While we’ve shared our favorites, Yellowstone has many other stunning hikes that should be on your radar. Here are a few more to consider:

• Lone Star Geyser Trail: A relatively easy 4-mile round-trip hike that leads to the impressive Lone Star Geyser. This geyser erupts regularly, making it an excellent choice for those looking to witness the park’s geothermal wonders.

• Avalanche Peak Trail: For a shorter but still challenging hike, the Avalanche Peak Trail is a 4-mile round-trip trek with views that stretch across the Yellowstone Plateau. The high-altitude views from the summit are worth the effort, with panoramic vistas of the park’s rugged landscape.

Skip the Crowds with Old Faithful and Friends!

Want to experience these trails without worrying about parking or navigating the park on your own? Old Faithful and Friends offers shuttle services and guided tours that take you directly to these hidden gems. Our expert guides will ensure you have an enriching experience, from discovering the park's wildlife to explaining its fascinating geology. We’ll get you off the beaten path and away from the crowds, so you can experience the beauty of Yellowstone in peace.

For more information or to book a tour, reach out to us directly at info@oldfaithfulandfriends.com or call us at 406-600-8408. We can’t wait to help you discover the best hikes Yellowstone has to offer!

Pro Tips for Hiking in Yellowstone:

• Start early: To avoid crowds, especially on popular hikes like Storm Point, aim to start your hike early in the morning.

• Be bear-aware: Yellowstone is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Carry bear spray, make noise on the trail, and be cautious around food sources.

• Prepare for the weather: Conditions can change quickly in Yellowstone. Bring layers, even in summer, and be prepared for all types of weather.

• Stay hydrated: Don’t forget your water bottle – hiking at higher altitudes can leave you feeling dehydrated more quickly.

No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to be captivated by the natural wonders of Yellowstone. So lace up those boots, grab your camera, and start exploring the best hikes in America’s first national park!