Howard Eaton Trail - 6.3mi Moderate Hike

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, but apply bear safety: stay alert, hike loudly, make constant noise. The trail is well-marked and popular. Never approach wildlife.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Good hiking boots, 2+ liters of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, long sleeves), and a light layer for shade. Trekking poles ease knee impact on the descent.

Q: How long does it actually take?

3–5 hours round trip depending on pace, fitness, and photo breaks. Most hikers finish in 4 hours. Add time if you wait for a geyser eruption.

Q: What's the bear risk, really?

Bear activity is present. Attacks are rare if you follow rules: hike loudly, stay alert, and never approach animals. The warning is serious—treat it seriously.

Q: Is there water on the trail to refill?

No. Carry all water you need. Thermal springs are boiling hot, and creeks are not safe to drink from.

Distance

6.3 mi

Est. Time

3–5 hours for most hikers; add time if you wait for a geyser eruption or take photo breaks.

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Summer and early fall (June–September), when roads are open and weather is stable.

Overview

About This Trail

This trail climbs a burned hill with views, passes through spruce-fir forest, and reaches Lone Star Geyser. It's moderately easy—doable for most hikers but requires steady effort over 6.3 miles. You'll experience regrowth forest and a working geyser, then return the same way. Bear awareness is mandatory.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderately easy

Trail Highlights

Ascend a burned hillside with panoramic views across the Upper Geyser Basin, traverse spruce-fir forest, and reach the active Lone Star Geyser.

Insider Tips

• The burned area is regrowth forest from the 1988 fires—surprisingly scenic and photogenic. • Old Faithful lots fill early in summer; arrive by 7 AM or plan a mid-afternoon start (after 2 PM). • Lone Star Geyser eruptions are unpredictable—check forecasts with the ranger station before committing your hike time. • Stay 25 yards from the geyser and all thermal features.

Best Season to Hike

Summer and early fall (June–September), when roads are open and weather is stable.

Hiking Tips

Carry 2L+ water; the burned hill is sunbaked with zero shade.
Make noise constantly to avoid surprising bears.
Wear sturdy boots with good ankle support; the descent is rocky.
Check bear activity advisories at Old Faithful Ranger Station before you go.
Orange blazes mark the trail clearly; stay on the marked path.
Start before 8 AM to minimize afternoon sun exposure.

Family Info

Moderately easy terrain suits families with school-age children and hiking experience. Constant vigilance for bears required; children must stay on the marked trail. The burned hill is steady climbing without scrambling. Not suitable for very young children or families without trail experience.

What Hikers Say

Hikers praise the geyser destination and burn-area views, though most underestimate the sun exposure on the open hill. The trail is achievable for moderately fit hikers, but the exposed section demands hydration and sun protection. Most report it's worth the effort.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 6.3 miles

Duration: 3–5 hours for most hikers; add time if you wait for a geyser eruption or take photo breaks.

Difficulty: Moderately easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Dirt trail with natural surfaces; exposed rock and loose ash on the burned hill section; forest floor in later sections.

Getting There

Trailhead: Park near Old Faithful Ranger Station and walk 0.25 miles on a paved path across the Grand Loop Road. Turn left at the first intersection, left again, and follow orange trail markers to the trailhead.

Requirements

Permit Required

None required.

Fees: $35 per vehicle (Yellowstone entrance fee). Trail itself has no additional fee.

Shuttle Available

No shuttle service. Park at Old Faithful Ranger Station; trailhead is a 0.25-mile walk.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Pets are not permitted on Yellowstone trails.

Biking: No. This is a hiking-only trail.

Trail Markers: Well-marked with orange blazes. Trail is easy to follow.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None. This is a dry trail. Carry all water you need. Do not drink from thermal springs or creeks.

Shade: Exposed sun on the burned hill (first 1.5 miles); shaded in the forest sections. Bring sun protection for the open portion.

Hazards:

Be aware of bear activity—make noise on the trail. Stay on marked trails at all times, especially near thermal features. The burned hill section has no shade—expect high sun exposure and heat. The descent can be steep and loose.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and rocky with some loose footing on the burned hill. Steady climbing (no scrambling). Not wheelchair accessible. Hiking poles recommended for stability and knee support on the descent.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Old Faithful developed area (0.25-mile walk from trailhead) has lodging, dining, visitor center, ranger station, and restrooms.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can a beginner do this trail?

Yes. The moderately easy terrain has no scrambling or technical climbing. Steady pacing for 3–5 hours gets you there. Not for very out-of-shape hikers, but achievable for anyone doing regular exercise.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Do I need special gear?

How long does it actually take?

What's the bear risk, really?

Is there water on the trail to refill?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

Visit Website