Observation Point Loop - 2mi Snowshoe Trail

A geyser in the middle of a snowy field erupts steam and water high into the air.

The Observation Point Loop is a 2-mile winter-only snowshoe trail that delivers panoramic views without the marathon mileage. You'll climb 160 feet via switchbacks to a turnaround with unobstructed views of the Upper Geyser Basin and Firehole River. The hike is moderate in distance but rated 'More Difficult' due to steep sections, winter conditions, and frequent wildlife—bison and elk use this trail. Go for the views, stay sharp for safety.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: More Difficult (NPS rating)
Elevation Gain Feet: 160

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: More Difficult (NPS rating)
Elevation Gain Feet: 160
Estimated Time: 1–2 hours depending on pace, snow depth, and viewing stops
Trail Surface: Packed snow over dirt/rock switchback trail. Icy sections possible after freeze-thaw cycles.
Trail Features: Upper Geyser Basin views
Firehole River vistas
Solitary Geyser
Switchback descent
Forested sections
Alpine elevation views
Trail Highlights: Unobstructed 360° views of the Upper Geyser Basin and Firehole River from Observation Point—the payoff for the 160-foot switchback climb.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Old Faithful Visitor Center parking area
Parking Lot Size: Large lot; typically 200+ spaces
Parking Fill Time: Fills by late morning on winter weekends; arrive by 9:00 AM for prime parking
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle required. Park at Old Faithful Visitor Center.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required for day hiking.
Fees: $35 per private vehicle (7-day pass) or $20 per person on foot/snowshoe entrance fee
Trail Status: Open seasonally when snow depth is adequate for snowshoeing
Seasonal Closures: Typically closed April through November when snow melts. Closed during severe winter storms or when snow depth drops below 12 inches.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: None on trail. Carry all water. No stream crossings after the initial Firehole River section.
Accessibility: Trail has 160-foot elevation gain via steep switchbacks over packed snow. Service dogs allowed per NPS regulations. Trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or people with significant mobility limitations due to winter conditions and switchback grade.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Bison and elk encounters
Bear and wolf habitat
Unstable hydrothermal ground
Steep switchback descent
Winter exposure (cold, wind, low visibility)
Short daylight hours
Hazard Details: This trail passes through active wildlife zones. Bison and elk are common—stay 25 yards away minimum. Federal law requires 100 yards from bears and wolves. Ground in geothermal areas is unstable and can collapse. Switchback descent is steep and icy when wet.
Cell Service: Spotty; assume no reliable signal
Crowd Level: Moderate to light (winter reduces crowds; Old Faithful still popular on weekends)
Peak Crowd Times: Winter weekends and school holidays (mid-December to early January)
Best Season: Winter (typically December through early March, snow-dependent)
Best Time To Visit: Winter days are short at 44°N latitude—aim for 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM start to finish before dark (sunset 4:30 PM in January). Clear days bring the best views. Come after fresh snow settles for 24+ hours.
Tips Advice: Snowshoes mandatory—microspikes alone will fail.
Carry 2–3 liters of water minimum (winter dehydration is silent).
Make noise constantly—bison and elk frequent this trail.
Stay 100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from all other wildlife.
Trekking poles for descents (switchback descent is step-heavy).
Full sun exposure above treeline—sunscreen and goggles essential.
Check avalanche and snow conditions before going (call ranger station).

More details

Park Area: Old Faithful Area
Trail Markers: Well-worn trail with high wooden sign at trailhead pointing the way from Visitor Center. Switchbacks are obvious and easy to follow.
Dogs Allowed: Service dogs only; all other pets prohibited
Biking Allowed: No (snowshoe trail only)
Shade Level: Mixed: Full sun on upper switchbacks and Observation Point; partial shade in forested lower sections. Bring a hat and sunscreen.
Emergency Contacts: Old Faithful Ranger Station (on-site). Call 911 via satellite phone if equipped. Hike out if injury is walk-able. Winter rescue is slow—self-rescue mindset required.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Typically December through early March. Exact window depends on annual snowpack and thaw timing.
Mud Season: N/A (winter-only trail)
Wildflower Peak: N/A (winter-only trail)
Fall Colors Peak: N/A (winter-only trail)
Bug Season: N/A (winter season)
Insider Tips: The 'Observation Point' at the top is not the first high point—don't stop at the false summit. Keep climbing to the true viewpoint.
Descend before 2:00 PM in winter to ensure daylight at trailhead.
Fresh snow (12–18 inches) is ideal; deeper snow makes the switchbacks harder to navigate.
The Firehole River section is a great landmark—use it to orient yourself.
Solitary Geyser is visible on the descent; pause to spot it.
Recent Updates: No recent major trail closures or reroutes reported as of June 2026.
Family Friendly Notes: Suitable for families with children who can snowshoe and are comfortable on moderate slopes. The switchback descent is step-heavy—hand-holding may be needed for young children. Short winter days mean little margin for error; turn back early if progress is slow.
Nearby Facilities: Old Faithful Visitor Center has restrooms, water, and ranger information. Dining and lodging at Old Faithful complex. Last fuel and supplies at Old Faithful.
Review Summary: Snowshoers rate this as a solid winter workout with excellent payoff. The 2-mile distance is deceptive—the 160-foot elevation gain and winter conditions make it more challenging than mileage suggests. Most say the views are worth the effort, and wildlife sightings are common.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail hard? Will I make it?

The 2-mile distance is short, but the 160-foot elevation gain via switchbacks and winter conditions push it to 'More Difficult.' If you can hike 2 miles on dirt, you can do this—just expect steeper work and slower pace due to snow. Start early and take your time.

Do I really need snowshoes?

Yes. Microspikes alone will fail in deep snow. Snowshoes are mandatory for safe traction on packed snow and switchbacks. Check snow depth (12+ inches ideal) before going.

Will I encounter wildlife?

Yes. Bison and elk frequently use this trail. Federal regulations require 25 yards from bison, 100 yards from bears/wolves. Make constant noise. If you encounter bison, back away slowly and give them the trail.

How much water should I carry?

Carry 2–3 liters minimum. Winter dehydration is silent—you don't sweat visibly, but you're losing fluids. Melt snow only if you have a reliable heat source (not safe on the trail).

Can I do this with young kids?

Yes, if they can snowshoe and are confident on slopes. The switchback descent is steep—hold their hand. Turn back early (by 1:00 PM) to ensure daylight.

Is the trail marked well?

Yes. A high wooden sign points the way from the Visitor Center. Switchbacks are obvious. Bring a map and compass anyway—winter conditions can obscure markers.