The West Thumb region of Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of day hikes for visitors of all skill levels. From easy boardwalk trails to more challenging backcountry treks, this area provides stunning views of Yellowstone Lake, geothermal features, and the surrounding wilderness.
West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail
Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km) round-trip
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30 minutes
This short, accessible trail takes hikers on a boardwalk through the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Along the way, you’ll see colorful hot springs, dormant lakeshore geysers, and stunning views of Yellowstone Lake. The trail is perfect for those looking for an easy, scenic stroll.
Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) round-trip
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Time: 1–3 hours
The Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail is a short but steep hike that rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Yellowstone Lake and the Absaroka Mountains. The trail climbs up a hill, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Duck Lake Trail
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) round-trip
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Time: 1–2 hours
The Duck Lake Trail is a moderately challenging hike that takes you through an area affected by the 1988 Yellowstone fires. The trail climbs up a hill before descending to the shores of the picturesque Duck Lake.
Shoshone Lake Trail
Distance: 6 miles (9.7 km) round-trip
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 2–3 hours
The Shoshone Lake Trail is a relatively flat hike that meanders through forest and meadows until it reaches the largest backcountry lake in Yellowstone, Shoshone Lake. This trail is a great option for those looking for a longer, but easy, day hike.
Riddle Lake Trail
Distance: 4.8 miles (7.7 km) round-trip
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 2–4 hours
The Riddle Lake Trail is another easy hike that takes you through grizzly bear habitat and meadows before reaching the pristine Riddle Lake. This trail is a great option for those looking for a longer, but relatively flat, day hike.
Lewis River Channel/Dogshead Trail
Distance: 11 miles (17.7 km) round-trip
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Time: 5–8 hours
The Lewis River Channel/Dogshead Trail is a longer, more challenging backcountry hike that offers stunning views of the Lewis River Channel and the surrounding forests. This trail is a great option for experienced hikers looking for a more adventurous day hike.
When planning your hikes in the West Thumb region of Yellowstone, be sure to check current trail conditions and bear activity before venturing into the backcountry. Proper preparation and safety precautions are essential for an enjoyable and safe hiking experience.
Reference:
– Yellowstone National Park – West Thumb Geyser Basin
– Yellowstone National Park – Hiking