Trail

Seven Mile Hole Trail

Trail
A river flows through a canyon with pale, sloping walls.

This 10-mile round-trip to Seven Mile Hole is a strenuous lung-buster that rewards experienced hikers with views of Silver Cord Cascade and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The route traces the canyon rim for 2 miles, then drops 1,000+ feet in 2.3 miles to reach the river. Footing is steep, water is scarce until the river, and dormant hot springs lurk along the way—stay alert, conserve energy, and stay on the trail.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
10
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet
1000

Trail profile

Distance Miles
10
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet
1000
Estimated Time
5–8 hours depending on fitness and rest stops
Trail Surface
Packed dirt and rocky trail with steep descent sections
Trail Features
  • Silver Cord Cascade views
  • Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone rim
  • Seven Mile Hole
  • Yellowstone River
  • Hot spring zones
Trail Highlights
Panoramic views of Silver Cord Cascade and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone rim. The reward: reaching Seven Mile Hole and the pristine Yellowstone River.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Glacial Boulder pullout on the road to Inspiration Point
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
Not required

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
None required
Fees
$35 per vehicle (7-day pass) or $20 per person on foot. No additional trail fees.
Trail Status
Open (seasonal—Summer and Fall)
Seasonal Closures
Typically closed in winter due to snow. Check park access conditions before travel.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
The only reliable water is the Yellowstone River (treatable via filtering). Carry all water for the rim sections.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Steep descent with loose rock
  • Active and dormant hot springs
  • Dehydration risk
  • Exposure to sun on rim
Hazard Details
Watch your footing on steep sections. Stay 10+ feet from hot springs—both dormant and active. The Yellowstone River is the only water source before descent, requiring treatment. Conserve energy for the brutal ascent on return.
Crowd Level
Moderate to light—strenuous terrain deters casual hikers
Peak Crowd Times
July and August mid-morning
Best Season
Summer, Fall
Best Time To Visit
Summer and early Fall for stable weather and open trail conditions. Start by 6:00 AM to avoid afternoon heat exposure and ensure adequate daylight for the steep descent.
Tips Advice
  • Carry 2–3 liters of water minimum—the river is the only source until descent
  • Tighten your boots for the steep 2.3-mile drop
  • Make constant noise near hot springs; stay 10 feet clear
  • Bring trekking poles; descent is punishing on knees
  • Check the Backcountry Situation Report before departure
  • Set a turnaround time (1:00 PM latest) and stick to it; daylight failure is real

More details

Park Area
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Trail Markers
Worn but navigable—trail is established but requires attention at junctions and near hot springs
Dogs Allowed
No—pets are not permitted
Biking Allowed
No—hiking trail only
Shade Level
Mixed—rim sections are exposed to sun; descent has some tree cover
Emergency Contacts
911 (cell service unreliable—carry a whistle). Locate a park ranger for non-emergency assistance.
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
Typically snow-covered November through April; check park road access before travel
Fall Colors Peak
September to early October
Insider Tips
  • The junction with Washburn Spur Trail at mile 1.5 is not the turnaround—keep going
  • The river is audible from above; use the sound to confirm your location
  • The hot springs cluster appears around mile 2.5—stay centered on the worn trail
  • Scout the descent route visually before committing; loose rock is common
Recent Updates
Check the NPS Backcountry Situation Report at https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/situationreport.htm for current trail conditions before travel.
Family Friendly Notes
Not suitable for young children. Steep drop-offs, hazardous hot springs, and strenuous terrain require adult supervision and solid hiking experience. Experienced hikers only.
Nearby Facilities
Canyon Visitor Education Center is nearby. Minimal services at trailhead—fill water and use restrooms before departure.
Review Summary
Hikers report the descent is relentless but deliverable for experienced trekkers. The Silver Cord Cascade views and riverside reward justify the pain, but underestimating the climb-out is the #1 mistake. Most call it worth the effort if fitness is solid.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail too hard for me?

Yes, if you haven't hiked 8+ miles with significant elevation gain. The descent is steep and the return climb is relentless. This is a grit test, not a warm-up.

Are there bears on this trail?

Yes. Make constant noise (talk loudly, clap periodically). Carry bear spray if comfortable. Bears avoid humans; don't surprise them or get between a mother and cubs.

Can I do this alone?

Not recommended. Cell service is unreliable, and injury on a remote descent is dangerous. Hike with a partner and carry a whistle and headlamp.

Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles are essential—they save your knees on descent. Carry 2+ liters of water, a detailed map, and a headlamp. Wear sturdy boots with ankle support and good tread.

What's the biggest mistake hikers make?

Starting too late and underestimating the return climb. Set a firm turnaround time (1:00 PM latest) and stick to it. Darkness and exhaustion kill people.

How do I stay safe near the hot springs?

Stay 10+ feet clear of all hot springs—dormant ones can reactivate and boil water in seconds. Don't test temperature with hands. Stay centered on the worn trail.

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 June 2026. Report an issue.