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

Seven Mile Hole Trail

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Overview

About This Trail

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.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

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.

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

Best Season to Hike

Summer, Fall

Hiking Tips

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

Family Info

Not suitable for young children. Steep drop-offs, hazardous hot springs, and strenuous terrain require adult supervision and solid hiking experience. Experienced hikers only.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 10 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft

Duration: 5–8 hours depending on fitness and rest stops

Difficulty: Strenuous

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Packed dirt and rocky trail with steep descent sections

Getting There

Trailhead: Glacial Boulder pullout on the road to Inspiration Point

Requirements

Permit Required

None required

Fees: $35 per vehicle (7-day pass) or $20 per person on foot. No additional trail fees.

Shuttle Available

Not required

Trail Rules

Dogs: No—pets are not permitted

Biking: No—hiking trail only

Trail Markers: Worn but navigable—trail is established but requires attention at junctions and near hot springs

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: The only reliable water is the Yellowstone River (treatable via filtering). Carry all water for the rim sections.

Shade: Mixed—rim sections are exposed to sun; descent has some tree cover

Hazards:

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.

Emergency: 911 (cell service unreliable—carry a whistle). Locate a park ranger for non-emergency assistance.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to light—strenuous terrain deters casual hikers

Peak Times: July and August mid-morning

Accessibility & Family

Family 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.

FAQs

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?

Can I do this alone?

Do I need special gear?

What's the biggest mistake hikers make?

How do I stay safe near the hot springs?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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