Mount Washburn Spur Trail

A hiker walks on a mountain slope with a canyon and lake seen in the distance.

This is a relentless 16.2-mile out-and-back grind up the east side of Mount Washburn with ZERO water sources—a full-day commitment for the fit and disciplined. You'll earn views of wildflowers, Washburn Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, but the terrain is exposed above treeline, lightning is a real threat, and grizzlies patrol this area in fall. This is not a casual day hike; it demands fitness, water discipline, and tactical group movement.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 16.2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 2500

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 16.2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 2500
Estimated Time: 8-10 hours
Trail Features: Wildflowers
Mount Washburn views
Washburn Hot Springs
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone overlooks
High-elevation alpine terrain
Geothermal features
Trail Highlights: The payoff is dual: wildflower meadows and hot springs along the route, plus panoramic views of Mount Washburn and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The high-elevation exposure delivers that "top of the world" feeling, but it comes with lightning and wind—not a postcard hike, a survival test.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Glacial Boulder pullout on the road to Inspiration Point
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not required for the standard out-and-back from Glacial Boulder pullout. However, this trail can be linked with Chittenden Road or Dunraven Pass Mount Washburn trailheads—coordinate drop-off/pickup if attempting those alternatives.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: None required. Day hiking in Yellowstone is unrestricted; no special permits needed.
Fees: $35.00 entrance fee (private vehicle, 7-day pass); additional nonresident fee applies if non-US resident (see park details)
Trail Status: Typically open mid-summer through fall; check road access—most park roads open mid-April through early November
Seasonal Closures: Snow and ice typically close this trail October through June; road access to Inspiration Point depends on seasonal park road openings

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: NO water access on this trail. Carry all water needed (3–4 liters minimum for 8–10 hours and high elevation). Filter before departure.
Accessibility: Rooty, steep, remote alpine terrain with loose scree and high exposure—NOT accessible to those with mobility limitations, cardiac/respiratory conditions, or fear of heights

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Lightning above treeline
Grizzly bears (fall season)
No water on trail (dehydration risk)
High elevation exposure
Steep terrain on descent
Afternoon thunderstorms
Not recommended for those with heart/respiratory issues
Hazard Details: Lightning is the biggest tactical threat above treeline, especially afternoons; descend immediately if storms approach. Grizzly bears frequent the Mount Washburn area in fall seeking whitebark pine nuts—travel in groups of 3+, make noise, carry bear spray (and know how to use it). There is zero water access on this trail, so dehydration and electrolyte loss are real. High altitude and steep grade are not suitable for anyone with cardiac or respiratory conditions. Loose scree and switchbacks on descent demand focus and sturdy footwear.
Best Season: Summer and Fall
Best Time To Visit: Early summer (late June through July) before fall grizzly season intensifies. Start by 6 AM to avoid afternoon thunderstorms at higher elevation. Fall (August–September) offers solitude but requires bear spray discipline and group of 3+.
Tips Advice: Carry 3–4 liters of water MINIMUM—there are no sources on this trail. Filter and top off before the climb.
Hike in groups of 3 or more, make noise constantly, carry bear spray in fall, and know how to use it.
Start early; this is an 8–10 hour commitment, and afternoon lightning above treeline is deadly.
Wear sturdy, well-broken-in boots and bring trekking poles for the descent—your knees will thank you.
Pack electrolyte tablets or salty snacks to replace what you're sweating out.
Avoid this trail if you have heart or respiratory issues; the altitude and grade are unforgiving.

More details

Park Area: Canyon Area
Dogs Allowed: Dogs are NOT permitted on this trail
Shade Level: Exposed above treeline with full sun—wear a hat, sunscreen, and long sleeves. Lower elevations have patches of trees, but most of the upper trail is fully exposed.
Emergency Contacts: Unknown—Yellowstone has ranger stations throughout the park. Nearest assistance in Canyon Area; emergency services available via park rangers. In emergencies, hike back to trailhead or nearest road and signal for help.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Typically snow-covered November through June; exact dates vary by year and elevation. Check park conditions before committing.
Insider Tips: The trail can feel relentless at mile 8 when the summit still seems distant—this is normal for a 16-mile slog. Push through.
Start even earlier than you think (5–5:30 AM) to clear the high country before afternoon lightning season begins.
The "false summit" is real: what looks like the top isn't. Know your turnaround time and stick to it.
If you link with the Chittenden Road or Dunraven Pass trails, you unlock alternative routes, but logistics are complex—only for well-planned groups.
Whitebark pine nuts ripen in fall; grizzlies will be HUNGRY. This is not the time for casual group discipline.
Family Friendly Notes: NOT suitable for young children or casual family outings. Only experienced hikers and teenagers in excellent condition should attempt. The 16.2-mile distance, strenuous grade, no water access, and grizzly bear presence make this a serious undertaking. High altitude and exposed terrain offer no safety net for inexperienced hikers or those prone to altitude sickness.
Nearby Facilities: Nearest supplies at Canyon Village (lodging, dining, fuel). Canyon Campground is the closest camping option. No services at trailhead.
Review Summary: Hikers report this as a legitimate lung-buster that separates the fit from the casual. Most praise the wildflower views and hot springs, but many underestimate the 8–10 hour commitment and zero-water penalty. Groups that start early, travel disciplined, and manage water intake rate it highly; those caught in afternoon storms or drained by dehydration regret it.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this hike alone?

No. Yellowstone requires groups of 3 or more, especially in grizzly territory (fall). Solo hiking here is high-risk and violates park safety guidelines. Travel with experienced partners.

Is the water situation as bad as you say?

Yes. Zero water sources on the trail. In an 8–10 hour day with elevation gain and sun exposure, you'll sweat 2–3 liters. If you run out, you're in trouble fast—altitude sickness, heat exhaustion, crisis management. Carry 3–4 liters minimum and drink strategically.

Can I do this if I'm fit but have no high-altitude experience?

Maybe, but it's risky. Start this hike as your FIRST 16-miler at elevation, and you risk bonking hard at mile 10. Do a 10-mile 4,000ft+ elevation trail first to know your altitude tolerance. This trail punishes poor fitness and altitude naivety.

What if I encounter a grizzly?

Group noise and bear spray deployment are your only reliable tools. If a bear approaches: deploy spray (not firearms), back away slowly, do NOT run, protect your food and garbage. Grizzlies avoid human groups that make noise. Fall is peak risk—August–September demands alertness and swift action if needed.

What if an afternoon storm rolls in while I'm above treeline?

Descend IMMEDIATELY. Lightning kills in mountains. If you're past mile 8 at 2 PM and clouds are building, start descending now, not later. A missed summit view beats becoming a statistic.

Do I need a map if the trail is well-marked?

Yes. Carry a map and GPS or topographic app on your phone. Well-marked does NOT mean 'impossible to get lost,' especially at altitude where focus degrades. Navigation is non-negotiable on 16-mile backcountry routes.