Trail

Purple Mountain Trailhead

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 5
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.

Location

Purple Mountain Trailhead at Yellowstone National Park along a forested roadside with cars passing by.Purple Mountain Trailhead at Yellowstone National Park winds through a pine forest and open meadow.Purple Mountain Trailhead at Yellowstone National Park at sunrise, a golden meadow and meandering stream framed by pine branches.Purple Mountain Trailhead at Yellowstone National Park along a shaded pine forest path.

Frequently asked questions

Are bears in the Purple Mountain Trailhead area?

Yes. This is bear country; carry bear spray and stay loud.

Is there water on the trail?

No reliable water sources; carry at least 3 liters.

Do I need a permit for day hiking?

No permit required for day hiking; park entrance fees apply.

When is the best time to hike Purple Mountain?

Summer to early fall (July–September); start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

Is the trail well-marked or do I need navigation tools?

The path is well-worn but carry a map and compass; GPS can help in the denser woods.

Brink of Lower Falls

0.7 miles out-and-back. Steep climb back. The brink of Lower Falls rewards the grit.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated January 2026. Report an issue.