Mount Washburn

The Mount Washburn Trail is a strenuous 3.6 mile hike up to the summit of the titular peak, rising high above the surrounding terrain of Yellowstone National Park. As part of Absaroka Mountains, much of the mountain was obliterated by the violent eruptions of the Yellowstone supervolcano. These days, the wide trail up is the old carriage road that would take guests along the Grand Loop before cars were the primary way people accessed the park.

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Mount Washburn Trail Description

From the trailhead, you’ll quickly begin climbing as the trail winds around the south side of the mountain. As expansive views southward are revealed, you’ll enter into a forest where the trail wraps around to the mountain’s east side. The trail will momentarily level out here as you notice the summit looming far ahead, surrounded by smaller nearby peaks.

Eastern views pop in and out of the forest as it occasionally breaks up. Many will also notice the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River visible far below. The trail will begin ascending once again, still forested as you soon cross a saddle to the west side of the mountain.

As you’re treated only to glimpses of the view through the trees, the trail will relentlessly ascend. At last, the westward view opens up as you reach the first of several lengthy switchbacks. Now heading southward, you’ll maintain a steady ascent through a patchy forest.

Higher still, and more southern views will be revealed at the next switchback. Taking in the immense view, you’ll see the Hayden Valley far in the distance breaking up the endless forest. Heading north from the switchback, you’ll maintain a steady ascent. As you reach the next switchback, a commanding view of the Mount Washburn summit rises steeply ahead.

Heading south once again, you’ll climb your way to the next switchback where another breathtaking view is revealed. At this point, you can make out Yellowstone Lake far beyond the canyon in an unforgettable panoramic vista. As the final switchback, the trail now makes a straight shot up to the summit.

As you near the treeline, you’ll emerge from a forested grove with unparalleled views to the west. Not far after, you’ll have equally impressive views to the east as well as the trail straddles a rocky ridgeline. Far in the western distance, the Gallatin Mountains are seen rising up on the horizon. To the east, more mighty Absarokas define the skyline. To the north, the Mount Washburn summit rises steeply and majestically ahead.

Reaching the base of the summit, the trail will begin to wrap around to the north side of the peak as the trail begins a small spiral upward to the summit. Not far after, you’ll reach a large junction. A wide trail branches off, named the old Chittenden Road, the former descent from the peak for the carriage tours. These days it’s a bike-friendly trail to summit the peak. A smaller trail makes its way up the nearby hill, ultimately dropping back down to the north rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Stick left to continue ascending.

Along the way, panoramic views can be enjoyed from virtually any point. Maintaining the steady ascent, you wrap around and finally reach the wide, flat summit of Mount Washburn. With endless panoramic views from virtually any spot, you’re treated to jaw-dropping vistas high above the surrounding terrain of Yellowstone National Park. You’ll even find both indoor and outdoor viewing platforms in the lookout tower, as well as restrooms. Enjoy the view as long as you’d like, and when ready, head back out the same way you came up.

Getting There

From Canyon Village, head north along the Grand Loop Road for 4.8 miles. Look for the Mount Washburn Trailhead on your right.