Yellowstone National Park offers a wealth of family-friendly hiking trails that cater to children aged 5 and up. From easy strolls to more challenging treks, these hikes showcase the park’s diverse natural wonders, including hot springs, geysers, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. Whether you’re looking for a short, scenic walk or a longer adventure, Yellowstone has something for every family.
Recommended Kid-Friendly Hikes in Yellowstone National Park
Here are some of the best kid-friendly hikes in Yellowstone National Park:
1. Grand Prismatic Hot Spring Overlook Trail
- Length: 2.4 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: The largest hot spring in the United States, with surreal colors and enormous size.
2. Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop
- Length: 7.9 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Features: Geysers, hot springs, and pools, including the iconic Old Faithful.
3. Fairy Falls Trail
- Length: 7.7 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: A short, steep hike leading to an observation platform over the Yellowstone River, offering a view of the waterfall.
4. Wraith Falls Trail
- Length: 1 mile (round-trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: A short hike through sagebrush to the foot of a 69-foot waterfall along Lupine Creek.
5. Trout Lake Trail
- Length: 1.2 miles (round-trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: A tranquil lake with opportunities for wildlife watching and fishing.
6. Mystic Falls Trail
- Length: 2.4 miles (round-trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: An out-and-back trail with a big waterfall at the end, passing through forests and over boardwalk portions.
7. Harlequin Lake Trail
- Length: 1 mile (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: A short hike to a beautiful mountain lake with wildlife viewing opportunities.
8. Lone Star Geyser Trail
- Length: 4.8 miles (round-trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: An old road turned into a trail, open to bikes, with a geyser that erupts about every three hours.
9. Storm Point Trail
- Length: 2.3 miles (round-trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: A flat trail crossing through meadows, forests, and beaches, offering a beautiful view of Yellowstone Lake.
10. Fountain Paint Pots Trail
- Length: 0.5 miles (round-trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: A boardwalk trail with unique geological features resembling boiling paint.
These trails offer a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, and cater to different interests and age groups. Always remember to pack snacks, bring water, and dress appropriately for the weather and terrain.
Easy Hikes in Yellowstone National Park with Waterfalls
Yellowstone National Park is home to numerous waterfalls, and some of the easiest hikes to access these natural wonders are:
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Fairy Falls Trail: This 7.7 km hike leads to an observation platform with a stunning view of the Yellowstone River and the Fairy Falls.
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Wraith Falls Trail: A short 1-mile round-trip hike takes you to the foot of the 69-foot Wraith Falls along Lupine Creek.
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Mystic Falls Trail: This 2.4-mile out-and-back trail features a big waterfall at the end, with the hike passing through forests and over boardwalk portions.
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Undine Falls Trail: A 1-mile round-trip hike brings you to the base of the 60-foot Undine Falls, a beautiful cascade on Lava Creek.
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Kepler Cascades Trail: A short 0.5-mile hike leads to a viewpoint of the 150-foot Kepler Cascades, a series of waterfalls on the Firehole River.
These easy hikes offer great opportunities for families to enjoy the stunning waterfalls of Yellowstone National Park.
Tips for Hiking with Kids in Yellowstone
When hiking with children in Yellowstone National Park, keep the following tips in mind:
- Start Early: Plan to hit the trails in the morning when the weather is cooler and crowds are smaller.
- Bring Snacks and Water: Ensure your kids stay hydrated and fueled throughout the hike.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear layers, sturdy shoes, and sun protection to ensure comfort and safety.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Adjust the hike length and difficulty based on your children’s abilities and interests.
- Engage Your Kids: Encourage them to look for wildlife, identify plants, and explore the natural wonders along the way.
- Take Breaks: Allow for rest stops and opportunities to explore the surroundings.
- Stay on Designated Trails: Remind your children to stay on the marked paths for their safety and to protect the fragile ecosystem.
By following these tips, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable family hiking experience in Yellowstone National Park.
Conclusion
Yellowstone National Park offers a wealth of family-friendly hiking opportunities, catering to children aged 5 and up. From easy strolls to more challenging treks, these trails showcase the park’s diverse natural wonders, including hot springs, geysers, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. Whether you’re looking for a short, scenic walk or a longer adventure, Yellowstone has something for every family. By planning ahead, packing the essentials, and engaging your kids, you can create unforgettable memories while exploring the wonders of this iconic national park.
References:
– AllTrails. (n.d.). Best Kid Friendly Trails in Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/wyoming/yellowstone-national-park/kids
– Utah’s Adventure Family. (n.d.). Yellowstone Kid Hikes. Retrieved from https://www.utahsadventurefamily.com/yellowstone-kid-hikes/
– Yellowstone Park. (n.d.). Top 4 Trails for Hiking with Kids in Yellowstone. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/hiking/tips-for-hiking-with-kids-in-yellowstone/
– Yellowstone Trips. (n.d.). 5 Yellowstone Hikes for Kids and Families. Retrieved from https://yellowstonetrips.com/yellowstone-hikes/
– Explore More Clean Less. (2019, July 3). Top ten yellowstone hikes for families. Retrieved from https://www.exploremorecleanless.com/top-ten-yellowstone-hikes-for-families/.