TrailAvalanche Peak Trailhead 5N2
4.5-mile out-and-back; 2,100 ft gain. Relentless climb with a true summit payoff.
2,100 ft elev. gain
View details →
+2 more
1 / 5
Signal Mountain Summit
Last Updated: January 2026
Distance
6.8 mi
Elevation Gain
980 ft
Est. Time
3-5 hours
Route Type
Out-and-back
Dogs Allowed
No
Best Season
Late June through August
Overview
About This Trail
6.8 miles round-trip with about 980 ft of elevation gain. The trail is narrow and winding with exposed rocks and roots, weaving through lodgepole pine forests and meadow clearings. Expect a steady 3-5 hour climb with some steeper sections. High reward for the effort: panoramic views of the Tetons and Jackson Hole valley from the summit.
Highlights
Difficulty Level
Moderate (strenuous in sections)
Trail Highlights
360-degree views of the Teton Range, Jackson Lake, and Jackson Hole valley.
Insider Tips
• Ridge Trail up, Ponds Trail down for varied scenery. • Arrive by 7-8 a.m. to secure parking and beat crowds. • Bring bear spray; make noise and travel in groups. • Pack sun protection and extra layers for wind at the summit. • Sunrise or sunset visits offer prime lighting; plan accordingly.
Best Season to Hike
Late June through August
Hiking Tips
- Carry 2 liters water per person; no excuses.
- Start the ascent early and pace yourself on the climb.
- Bear safety: carry bear spray and travel in groups; make noise.
- Wear sturdy footwear and sun protection; some sections are exposed.
- Consider hiking up Ridge Trail and descending Ponds Trail for varied scenery.
Family Info
Moderate length; may challenge very young children; consider shorter segments or breaking into two hikes.
What Hikers Say
Hikers report a steady climb with a meaningful payoff at the summit; the 360-degree Tetons view is the highlight. Crowding and parking can be a challenge, especially at sunset, but the trail is well maintained and accessible to families willing to commit to the distance.
More at Yellowstone National Park
Trail Yellowstone National Park
Recommended Gear for Yellowstone National Park
ℹ️ Data Sources
National Park Service — Signal Mountain Summit (official page) (checked 2026-01-07) National Park Service — Yellowstone National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) grokipedia.com wikipedia.org wanderlog.com hikingproject.com trailrunproject.com freeroaminghiker.com 10adventures.com reddit.com grizzlyrv.com youtube.com naturalatlas.com gtlc.com recreation.gov wta.org doc.govt.nz Google Reviews YourNPGuide Editorial
Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →