Mud Volcano Trail

People walk down a boardwalk towards a large plume of steam.

A 0.6-mile loop through Yellowstone's geothermal theater. Boardwalks and paved sections dominate, but don't let 'easy' fool you—the southern rim climbs with real grade, and stairs demand focus. You'll see mud pots churning, fumaroles venting, and evidence of the volcanic machinery beneath your feet. Doable for most, but watch your footing on steeper pitches.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.6
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Easy, with steep sections
Elevation Gain Feet: 0

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.6
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Easy, with steep sections
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours depending on pace and stops
Trail Surface: Paved and boardwalk, with stairs
Trail Features: Mudpots
Geysers
Fumaroles
Boardwalks
Volcanic features
Dragon's Mouth Spring
Trail Highlights: Geothermal features including churning mudpots and active fumaroles. Views of resurgent dome (Sour Creek Dome) and evidence of Yellowstone's active volcanic system.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Mud Volcano parking area, 6 miles north of Fishing Bridge on Grand Loop Road
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle required or available

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required
Fees: Yellowstone entrance fee: $35 per vehicle (7-day pass)
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Road closure in winter; snowcoach tours available but trail snow-covered

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: None; carry water from trailhead
Accessibility: Southern loop section is paved but with steep grade. Northern section has stairs. Smaller loop around Mud Volcano and Dragon's Mouth Spring meets ADA guidelines, though stairs lead to Dragon's Mouth viewing platform.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Geothermal features
Boiling water
Toxic gases
Steep grades
Slippery when wet
Uneven surfaces
Hazard Details: Geothermal features are extremely hot and unstable—stepping off boardwalk or pavement can cause severe burns. Hydrogen sulfide and other gases may be present; avoid breathing deeply near vents. Steep paved grades and stairs can be slippery, especially when wet or icy. Heights from viewing platforms and rim edges.
Crowd Level: Moderate to busy during peak season
Peak Crowd Times: Mid-morning through mid-afternoon, July-August
Best Season: Spring, summer, fall (main roads open mid-April to early November)
Best Time To Visit: Start by 9 AM to beat crowds; afternoon sun hammers exposed sections. Avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. Thermal features most visually dramatic on cool mornings when steam rises.
Tips Advice: Stay on boardwalks and pavement—geothermal features are unstable and toxic.
Bring 1 liter of water minimum; short distance is deceiving.
Wear sturdy footwear with good grip for stairs and steep grades.
The paved section is steep—use the rail.
Make noise; bear country.
No restrooms at trailhead; use Fishing Bridge facilities.

More details

Park Area: Mud Volcano
Trail Markers: Well-marked with signs at intersections and boardwalk edges
Dogs Allowed: No
Biking Allowed: No
Shade Level: Limited shade; mostly exposed geothermal landscape
Emergency Contacts: Yellowstone ranger dispatch: 307-344-2876 or emergency: 911
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Typical closure November through April; road conditions vary
Mud Season: Boardwalks and pavement minimize mud; potentially slippery when wet
Bug Season: Mosquitoes active summer through early fall, especially near thermal features and at dusk
Insider Tips: The smaller loop around Mud Volcano itself is only about 0.3 miles and fully paved.
Dragon's Mouth Spring is the most photogenic feature; visit first before crowds build.
Early morning light creates the best thermal mist photography.
Trail can be incorporated into longer park drive without major detour.
Family Friendly Notes: Safe for families with supervision. Young children should be watched closely near geothermal features and steep edges. Steeper southern section may challenge young or unfit hikers; offer hand-holding on the grade.
Nearby Facilities: Fishing Bridge visitor center and facilities 6 miles south; Canyon Village services to the west
Review Summary: Hikers praise the compact geothermal experience without major physical commitment. Steep grades and stairs catch some visitors by surprise, but accessibility options exist for most fitness levels. Geothermal features and ease make it a popular quick stop.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this trail with my kids?

Yes. Most kids can handle the 0.6 miles and short duration. Watch them closely near boardwalk edges and geothermal features. The steeper southern section may be slow-going with very young children.

Is this safe for solo hikers?

Yes. It's a busy, well-traveled loop in daylight hours. Stay on marked paths and remain alert for wildlife. Avoid hiking in darkness.

What if I'm not very fit?

The short distance works for most fitness levels, but the paved grade is steep. The smaller paved loop around Mud Volcano itself is easier. Use the railings and take breaks as needed.

Do I need special gear?

Wear sturdy shoes with good grip (stairs and steep grades are slippery). Bring water and sunscreen. A light layer helps manage sun reflection and wind. No technical gear required.

What are the real hazards?

Geothermal features can cause severe burns if you leave the path. Avoid breathing noxious gases. The grade and stairs demand attention. Wildlife (bears, bison) are rare here but possible; make noise.

When is the best time to visit?

Early morning (by 8:30 AM) before crowds arrive, and when temps are cooler. Avoid peak midday July-August heat and crowds. Spring and fall offer solitude and mild weather.