Mount Washburn Bike Trail

Two bikers on a dirt road with green trees and standing snags. Snow covers some of the landscape.

Bike 3 miles straight uphill on a steep gravel road to the 10,243-foot summit of Mount Washburn. You'll gain 1,500 feet of elevation in 2.5 miles—a relentless, no-mercy climb. The payoff: 360-degree views across Yellowstone and a real sense of accomplishment. This is bear country, so pack spray and stay alert.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 3
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous lung-buster
Elevation Gain Feet: 1500

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 3
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous lung-buster
Elevation Gain Feet: 1500
Estimated Time: 2–5 hours depending on fitness and time spent at summit
Trail Surface: Dirt and gravel road, wide and stable but very steep
Trail Features: 360-degree summit views
Alpine environment
Wildlife viewing opportunity
Historic fire lookout site
Clear-day views across Yellowstone basin
Trail Highlights: The 360-degree views from the 10,243-foot summit dominate. On clear days you see across the entire park. The sense of accomplishment after the brutal climb is real.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Chittenden Road parking area near Dunraven Pass (between Canyon Village and Tower Junction)
Parking Fill Time: Full by 8:00 AM on peak summer weekends
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle required or available

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permit required. Day use only.
Fees: $35 per vehicle (Yellowstone entrance fee; valid 7 days)
Trail Status: Typically open mid-June through early September
Seasonal Closures: Closed late September through mid-June due to snow and road closure

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: No water sources on trail. Carry all water needed—minimum 2.5–3 liters.
Accessibility: Very steep climb with 1,500 ft gain. Wide gravel surface accommodates hand-cycles, but the elevation gain is extreme and unsuitable for most users with mobility challenges.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Grizzly bears
Black bears
Thin air and altitude
Intense sun exposure
Service vehicles (plows, maintenance)
Steep descent
Exposed terrain
Hazard Details: Federal law requires 100 yards from bears and wolves. Watch for grizzlies—they forage in this area, especially evening. Stay 25 yards from bison. Service vehicles use this road without warning. Altitude (10,243 ft) can cause headaches or nausea. Descent is steep and hard on knees—trekking poles essential. No shade—sun exposure is relentless.
Crowd Level: Moderate to busy on summer weekends and mid-day; lighter in early morning or shoulder season (June, early September)
Peak Crowd Times: Mid-July through late August; weekends; 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Best Season: Summer (mid-June through early September)
Best Time To Visit: Early morning (before 6:00 AM) in mid-June through early September. Start early to beat afternoon heat, avoid service vehicle traffic, and secure parking. Weather is most stable in July and August.
Tips Advice: Carry bear spray—know how to use it. Stay 100 yards from bears, 25 yards from bison.
Start by 6:00 AM to beat vehicle traffic and heat.
Bring 2.5–3 liters of water minimum. No water on trail.
Trekking poles reduce knee strain on the descent.
Watch for service vehicles (plows, maintenance) on the road.
The summit can be windy and cold—bring layers.
Make noise while riding to avoid surprising bears.

More details

Park Area: Canyon Area (between Canyon Village and Tower Junction)
Trail Markers: Well-marked, hard to get lost. It's a maintained road with clear direction.
Dogs Allowed: No. Service dogs permitted only, but face increased risk of wildlife confrontation.
Biking Allowed: Yes, on the Chittenden Road section to the summit. Bikes are NOT permitted on the hiking trail between the summit and Dunraven Pass parking area.
Shade Level: Full sun. No shade on the road. Wear sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Emergency Contacts: Yellowstone ranger stations at Canyon Village or Tower Junction. Nearest medical facility is Canyon Medical Clinic.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Typically snowed in November through May; opening depends on snowmelt and road maintenance
Mud Season: Spring melt creates muddy sections April–June, making this impassable until late June
Fall Colors Peak: Early to mid-September (limited alpine vegetation, but aspen at lower elevations)
Insider Tips: The false summit at mile 2 will trick you—keep pedaling to reach the true summit.
Sunrise at the summit requires a very early start.
The descent is steeper and scarier than the ascent—save energy for your brakes and legs.
Carry bear spray on your hip belt, not in a backpack.
Grizzlies are most active at dawn and dusk—ride midday if nervous.
Service vehicles don't stop for bikes—yield the road.
The summit wind can be severe—summit views on calm mornings are clearer.
Family Friendly Notes: Not recommended for young children or families with weak cyclists. Steep grade, high altitude, full sun, and wildlife hazards make this a tough ride. Teenagers and fit adults only. Hand-holding on steep sections essential if young riders insist on attempting.
Review Summary: Bikers praise the summit views and sense of achievement, but consistently warn about the brutal elevation gain and relentless climb. Most riders need 3–5 hours round trip. Descent requires caution and trekking poles. Weather at the summit can shift rapidly.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be super fit to ride this?

You need solid fitness. If you can sustain climbing hills for 1–2 hours, you can reach the summit, though slower riders may take 4–5 hours. The grit matters more than speed.

Will I encounter bears?

Bear encounters are possible but rare if you make noise and ride midday. Carry bear spray, keep it accessible, and know how to use it. Stay 100 yards away if you spot one.

Can I ride down faster than I climbed up?

Yes, but the descent is steep and technically harder on your knees and brakes. Use trekking poles, control your speed, and don't ride faster than you can brake.

What if I'm too tired to descend?

Pace yourself on the ascent and save energy for the descent. Rest at the summit. If you're genuinely exhausted, a ranger can advise on support options, but this ride is self-reliant.

Is there water or a restroom halfway?

No. There's nothing on the trail. Carry all water (minimum 2.5–3 liters) and use facilities before you depart.

What if service vehicles come toward me?

Yield the road. Pull to the side and let them pass. They don't stop for bikes—assume they won't see you until the last second.