Yellowstone Hikes

I chose to stay in the Canyon Village area of Yellowstone in order to be closer to a number of hikes. Unfortunately, a few of the trails I was initially looking into hiking are closed due to construction. Reminds me of the old saying – There are only 2 seasons, winter and construction.

I figured I’d warm up with a couple short quick hikes in the nearby Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Observation Peak Trail

My plan to hike Mt. Washburn was foiled due to it being closed. I decide to try this peak trail based on a park ranger suggestion.

Distance: 9.6 miles
Time: 2 hours

Trail Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

Total Climbing: 1,558 ft
Max Elevation: 9,402 ft

It’s not very often someone gets to say this – “There’s a bison impeding my hike!”. I had to wait about 15 minutes for him to move far enough off the trail to allow me to pass by safely.

2.2 miles in – the first part of the hike ends at Cascade Lake.

Now the climbing begins

A comfortable and slightly breezy day turned into uncomfortably cold and incredibly windy at the summit. Had to be 40 mph winds. I had intended to eat lunch and relax in the comfortable confines of the observation tower but naturally it’s closed – under construction. Why am I not surprised!?

I take a few pictures from the peak but then almost immediately start to head back down to get out of the wind, find a spot to relax, and eat lunch.

My favorite part of this hike – coming back down I stop at Cascade Lake. My legs are pretty tired at this point. I decide to lay down in the tall grass and soak in the warmth of the afternoon sun and enjoy the cool breeze. Thought maybe I might nod off for a bit but ended up just listening to the wind and the gentle lake waves. It’s times like these that you can’t help but smile and appreciate your surroundings.