Purple Mountain Trailhead: Hike to Summit and Scenic Views

Purple Mountain Trailhead in Yellowstone National Park leads hikers along a sun-dappled pine forest path.

Mission: tackle a sustained uphill to the summit. This is a 6- to 6.6-mile out-and-back with about 1,500–1,590 feet of gain. It’s a grind—carry 3 liters minimum, bear spray, and sturdy footwear. High reward for the effort: views of the Gibbon/Madison Rivers and distant geyser basins.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 6.6
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 1590

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 6.6
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 1590
Estimated Time: 3-5 hours for fit hikers
Trail Surface: Primarily packed dirt with switchbacks
Trail Features: Long, steady ascent on packed dirt with switchbacks
Views of the Gibbon and Madison Rivers from upper slopes
Open sections with exposure near summit
Dense woodland for most of ascent
Potential wildlife encounters in Yellowstone
Trail Highlights: Summit rewards with views of the Gibbon and Madison Rivers, distant geyser basins, and clear days may reveal the Tetons.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Located just east of Madison Junction on the north side of Grand Loop Road
Parking Lot Size: Small turnout/pullout
Parking Fill Time: Arrive early; small lot may fill by dawn
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle required

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permit required for day hiking; park entrance fees apply
Fees: Park entrance fees apply
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Snow possible into July; mud season in late spring/early summer

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: No reliable water sources; carry all you need (min 3 liters)
Accessibility: Steep, unpaved sections; not wheelchair accessible

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Bear country (grizzly and black bears)
Afternoon thunderstorms
Lightning exposure
Hazard Details: Carry bear spray and know how to use it; monitor weather; stay alert in exposed upper sections
Cell Service: Unknown; generally unreliable in Yellowstone
Crowd Level: Typically quiet and secluded
Peak Crowd Times: Low; occasional weekend activity
Best Season: Summer and early fall (July to September)
Best Time To Visit: Start early morning; July–September optimal.
Tips Advice: Carry at least 3 liters of water.
Bear spray and know how to use it.
Start cold and warm up.
Trekking poles recommended for descent.
Check snow conditions; micro-spikes may be needed in early season.

More details

Park Area: Yellowstone National Park
Trail Markers: Well-worn path; bring a map and compass
Dogs Allowed: Dogs on leash are welcome at Purple Mountain Trailhead, and on adjacent trails; please clean up after pets and keep them under control.
Biking Allowed: Biking is not allowed on the main Purple Mountain Trail; riders should use designated bike routes in the vicinity.
Shade Level: Mixed; lower sections shaded, upper sections open
Emergency Contacts: Yellowstone rangers; dial 911 for emergencies
Map Recommended: 1
Alltrails Link: www.alltrails.com
Snow Dates: Trail can be snow-covered into July; micro-spikes may be necessary in early season
Mud Season: Late spring/early summer due to snowmelt
Wildflower Peak: Spring
Bug Season: Mosquitoes active in June and July; less as summer progresses and things dry out
Insider Tips: Start before 7:00 AM to beat thunderstorms
Trekking poles ease the descent
Check snow conditions if hiking in early summer
Bear spray practice and safety
Family Friendly Notes: Moderately experienced hikers; families with older children due to strenuous climb
Nearby Facilities: Trailhead information kiosk; no restrooms at the trailhead
Review Summary: The climb is brutal but the solitude and well-maintained trail make it worthwhile. Expect a quiet route with a steady ascent and minimal crowds.