Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail: Easy Hike with Lake Views

Q: Is a permit required for day hiking?

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

Q: Is the trail stroller-friendly?

Parts are stroller accessible, but some sections may require assistance or detours.

Q: What’s the best time to visit?

Arrive early, ideally around sunrise or before mid-morning, to secure parking and enjoy lighter crowds.

Q: Is there water on the trail?

There are no reliable water sources on the trail; carry at least 3L per person.

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Overview

About This Trail

Mission Brief: Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail is a 1.7-mile lollipop loop with a modest elevation gain. You’ll thread through forest, meadows, and near thermal areas to a lake overlook with Absaroka Mountains in the distance. Begin early to beat crowds; May and June can be muddy or snowy, so traction and layers matter. The payoff is lake views, wildlife opportunities, and a moderate workout that most visitors can finish.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate hike (easy to moderate by some reviewers)

Trail Highlights

Overlook with commanding views of West Thumb Lake and distant Absaroka Mountains; proximity to thermal areas along the loop

Insider Tips

• Counter-clockwise loop for a gentler ascent • Arrive early to secure parking • Sunrise or sunset lighting can enhance the lake view • Some sections are stroller-friendly; others may require assistance

Best Season to Hike

Summer and Fall

Hiking Tips

Carry 3L water minimum
Bear spray and knowledge of its use
Start early to secure parking
Stay on designated paths near thermal areas
Wear sturdy shoes, bring layers, and sun protection

Family Info

Very family-friendly; some stroller-accessible sections; keep close around wildlife and thermal areas

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.7 miles

Elevation Gain: 250 ft

Duration: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours; plan 1-3 hours if you linger

Difficulty: Moderate hike (easy to moderate by some reviewers)

Route Type: Lollipop loop

Surface: Mixed: packed dirt, forest paths, meadows; can be muddy or snowy in May/June

Getting There

Trailhead: Southeast corner of the West Thumb Geyser Basin Parking Area; trail crosses the highway near the West Thumb intersection

Parking: Shared with West Thumb Geyser Basin; capacity varies; mid-morning crowds

Fills Up: Full by mid-morning; plan to arrive early

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No day-use permit required for hiking; permits required for backcountry activities

Fees: Standard Yellowstone National Park entrance fees apply; no extra hike-specific cost

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not specified

Biking: Not specified

Trail Markers: Markers present but some sections can be poorly marked; map/plan recommended

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Carry all water; no reliable sources on trail

Shade: Mixed; forested sections and open meadow exposure

Cell Service: Limited and spotty; Verizon strongest near developed areas

Hazards:

Be bear-aware and keep distance from wildlife; monitor weather because lightning can arrive quickly; stay on trails near thermal zones to avoid unstable ground; in May–June expect mud and lingering snow

Emergency: Yellowstone National Park emergency services; dial 911 if Rescue needed

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate

Peak Times: Mid-morning

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Parts are stroller-friendly, though some sections require assistance

Family Notes:

Very family-friendly; some stroller-accessible sections; keep close around wildlife and thermal areas

Nearby Facilities

Restrooms at West Thumb trailhead; parking shared with West Thumb Geyser Basin

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.9 /5

Based on 120 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Great easy loop. Amazing to see the geysers and pools right next to the lake Top 10 short hikes in Yellowstone

Well worth the 15-20 min hike up to the top. Loop trail with no chance of getting lost and can see for miles!

Beautiful! Must see as you venture through the park.

Showing 3 of 120 reviews

FAQs

Are bears common on this trail?

Yes, it is bear country. Make noise, stay together, and carry bear spray; know how to use it.

Is a permit required for day hiking?

Is the trail stroller-friendly?

What’s the best time to visit?

Is there water on the trail?

📖 noahlangphotography.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 10adventures.com 📖 hike734.com 📖 onxmaps.com 📖 wanderlog.com 📖 annestravels.net 📖 wheree.com 📖 yellowstonepark.com 📖 yellowstonenationalparklodges.com 📖 americansouthwest.net 📖 quora.com 📖 Current time information in Teton County, US. 📖 wereintherockies.com 📖 yellowstonetrips.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail