Trail

Howard Eaton Trail (Old Faithful Area)

Trail
Howard Eaton Trail (Old Faithful Area)

Howard Eaton Trail (Old Faithful Area)

Quick facts

Distance Miles
6.3
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Moderately easy
Estimated Time
3–5 hours for most hikers; add time if you wait for a geyser eruption or take photo breaks.

Trail profile

Distance Miles
6.3
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Moderately easy
Estimated Time
3–5 hours for most hikers; add time if you wait for a geyser eruption or take photo breaks.
Trail Surface
Dirt trail with natural surfaces; exposed rock and loose ash on the burned hill section; forest floor in later sections.
Trail Features
  • Burned hillside
  • Spruce-fir forest
  • Lone Star Geyser
  • Forest regrowth
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.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
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.
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No shuttle service. Park at Old Faithful Ranger Station; trailhead is a 0.25-mile walk.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
None required.
Fees
$35 per vehicle (Yellowstone entrance fee). Trail itself has no additional fee.
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Road access typically open mid-April through early November. Winter travel is possible but challenging; check NPS road conditions before planning.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
None. This is a dry trail. Carry all water you need. Do not drink from thermal springs or creeks.
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.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Bear activity
  • Sun exposure on burned hill
  • Hydrothermal hazards
  • Steep descent on loose ground
Hazard Details
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.
Best Season
Summer and early fall (June–September), when roads are open and weather is stable.
Best Time To Visit
June through September, when roads are clear and weather is stable. Start before 8 AM to beat afternoon crowds and heat exposure on the burned hill.
Tips Advice
  • 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.

More details

Park Area
Upper Geyser Basin
Trail Markers
Well-marked with orange blazes. Trail is easy to follow.
Dogs Allowed
No. Pets are not permitted on Yellowstone trails.
Biking Allowed
No. This is a hiking-only trail.
Shade Level
Exposed sun on the burned hill (first 1.5 miles); shaded in the forest sections. Bring sun protection for the open portion.
Map Recommended
0
Snow Dates
Winter travel possible but challenging. Roads typically closed or difficult December–March. Check NPS road conditions before planning winter hikes.
Mud Season
Early spring snowmelt and April–May precipitation create muddy forest sections. Trails are clearest June onward.
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.
Family Friendly Notes
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.
Nearby Facilities
Old Faithful developed area (0.25-mile walk from trailhead) has lodging, dining, visitor center, ranger station, and restrooms.
Review Summary
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.

Frequently asked questions

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?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Brink of Lower Falls

0.7 miles out-and-back. Steep climb back. The brink of Lower Falls rewards the grit.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated June 2026. Report an issue.