Observation Peak Trail
Canyon Village, Yellowstone National Park
| Address: | Grand Loop Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA |
| GPS: |
44°45'8.1"N 110°29'11.1"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Wyoming |
| Trails/Routes: | 7.6 mi |
Lakes Trails Rocks National Park
Hike
Observation Peak Trail is one of the most famous hikes in Yellowstone National Park. The hike is an almost 10 miles there and back hike that starts and ends at the same trailhead.
Observation Peak Trail starts out at the same trailhead as Cascade Lake Trail. There is parking available at the trailhead.
Hikers on this trail can expect to enjoy forests, meadow and a beautiful view of Cascade Lake. The trail to Cascade Lake is about two miles. This is the easy part of the trail. It is well paved and has very little elevation change. At the end of this part of the hike, hikers can rest next to the beautiful Cascade Lake.
From Cascade Lake the trail splits off onto Observation Peak Trail. From the lake the trail is 2.6 miles long and ascends 1,400 feet. This is the more difficult part of the trail but ends with an incredible view from the peak of the mountain.
The trail is only open during the summer and fall, due to heavy snow in the winter and spring. During these warmer months hikers can enjoy the forests, meadows and wildflowers along the trail.
Observation Peak Trail is an incredible hike for people in Yellowstone wanting to connect with nature and see Yellowstone from above the park.
More Information
Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
This Yellowstone National Park Itinerary will help you get started as you plan your vacation to Yellowstone National Park.
https://www.justgotravelstudios.com/collections/national-park-itineraries/products/yellowstone-national-park-itinerary?ref=9zpxis0diinBackcountry Conditions - Yellowstone National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
This page provides a map and details conditions of trail status, closures, and known hazards.
https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/situationreport.htmObservation Peak Trail (U.S. National Park Service)
Day hike in Yellowstone National Park
https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/yell-trail-observation-peak.htmBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Canyon Village, Yellowstone National Park
- Head northeast (0.1 mi)
- Turn left at the 2nd cross street at N Rim Dr (0.2 mi)
- Turn right onto Grand Loop RdToll roadMay be closed at certain times or days(1.3 mi)
- Turn left (66 ft)
- Turn right (377 ft)
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