Observation Point Trailhead: 1.6-mile out-and-back or 2.5-mile loop near Old Faithful, Yellowstone

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Cell service is unreliable; it’s safer with a partner or group. Tell someone your plan, stay on marked trails, and carry a basic safety kit.

Q: Do I need a permit to hike Observation Point?

No permit is required for day hiking. Yellowstone entrance fees apply at park entry.

Q: Is the extended Solitary Geyser loop worth it?

Yes for hikers seeking extra distance and a quieter route; it adds rougher footing and time but rewards with a second viewpoint opportunity.

Q: What should I bring for a safe hike?

Water, sturdy footwear, bear spray, sunscreen, hat, and layers. A map or GPS helps since cell service is spotty in this area.

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Overview

About This Trail

Out-and-back with an optional Solitary Geyser loop. Base distance is about 1 mile with 160–200 ft of gain; extended loop up to 2.2 miles. Surface ranges from paved to rough dirt, with switchbacks on the longer loop. The viewpoint is exposed—carry water and be ready for sudden weather changes.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate; switchbacks and rougher sections on the extended loop

Trail Highlights

Panoramic overlook of the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful; optional extension to Solitary Geyser

Insider Tips

• Hike early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds near Old Faithful. • Consider the Solitary Geyser loop for extra distance. • Time your hike to coincide with Old Faithful eruptions for a unique perspective.

Best Season to Hike

Late spring, summer, and fall

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry bear spray with know-how to use it.
Start early to beat crowds; check eruption times at the Visitor Center or GeyserTimes app.
Stay on the trail; wildlife and weather can change quickly.

Family Info

Generally suitable for families due to short base distance and manageable elevation; bear awareness is essential

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1 miles

Elevation Gain: 180 ft

Duration: 1-3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate; switchbacks and rougher sections on the extended loop

Route Type: Out-and-back with optional loop to Solitary Geyser

Surface: Paved, packed dirt, with narrow, rough sections on the extended loop

Getting There

Trailhead: From the Old Faithful boardwalk, about 0.3 miles from the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center; trailhead on the north side of the Firehole River bridge between Old Faithful Geyser and Geyser Hill

Parking: Extensive at Old Faithful Village but very popular; fill rates vary by season

Fills Up: Full by 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM during peak season; arrive early to secure a spot

Requirements

Fees: Yellowstone entrance fees apply: 7-day private vehicle $35; annual pass $70; America the Beautiful Pass $80

Shuttle Available

No mandatory shuttle for this trail

Trail Rules

Trail Markers: Well-worn markers; signage present; follow established routes to Solitary Geyser if taking the loop

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Trail is generally dry; carry sufficient water for the round trip and any extended loop

Shade: Moderate shade in the lodgepole forest; the viewpoint is exposed

Cell Service: Unreliable or non-existent in this area

Hazards:

Carry bear spray and know how to use it; make noise to avoid surprising wildlife. Be prepared for sudden thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan for shade gaps on the exposed overlook. The extended loop has rough, narrower sections and footing variability.

Emergency: Yellowstone rangers; in an emergency call 911; report to Old Faithful area rangers as needed

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to crowded near the viewpoint; quieter along the lower sections and on the extended loop

Peak Times: Mornings and late afternoons; midday crowds peak around Old Faithful area

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Moderate difficulty; mixed surfaces; not fully accessible for wheelchairs

Family Notes:

Generally suitable for families due to short base distance and manageable elevation; bear awareness is essential

Nearby Facilities

Old Faithful Village; Old Faithful Visitor Education Center; Old Faithful Inn

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 18 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Cool short hike. 500ft incline to the top where you can see all of Old Faithful, a few of the other geysers in the basin, the inn, etc. Saw a geyser erupt at the top. Not a whole lot of people since the families stay on the main trail. Can't miss the sign. Saw a marmot on the trail :)

This is a great little hike to get away from the hubub of everyone around great faithful and the board walks. It's not super long or steep and has a few split offs you can walk along to enjoy the nature and views of all the geysers from a distance. Then you can hit the boardwalk again after people have cleared out a bit.

As you drop towards Firehole River on Observation Point trail you get some good vantage points to see Old Faithful do her thing at the appointed time. This is a wonderful trail to get the overall geological perspective of the area. There are resting and seating places along the walkway.

Showing 3 of 18 reviews

FAQs

Are bears present on the Observation Point Trailhead?

Yes. This is bear country; carry bear spray, hike in groups if possible, make noise, and store smells properly away from food.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Do I need a permit to hike Observation Point?

Is the extended Solitary Geyser loop worth it?

What should I bring for a safe hike?

📖 nps.gov 📖 youtube.com 📖 destinationmontana.com 📖 freeroaminghiker.com 📖 weareoutgrown.org 📖 noahlangphotography.com 📖 americansouthwest.net 📖 usparkpass.com 📖 yellowstoneparknet.com 📖 shakaguide.com 📖 nationalparkstraveler.org 📖 yellowstonenationalparklodges.com 📖 travelwyoming.com 📖 yellowstonepark.com 📖 travelalamer.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Observation Point Trailhead