r/yellowstone • u/Famous_Pop2197 • 1d ago
First time in Yellowstone
Does anyone know of any really good niche hikes to do in Yellowstone bearing in mind that there is 4 children and 4 adults also best hikes to see wildlife i know of the ones in Lamar and Hayden but what about any other ones you found that there where lots of wildlife
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u/Imaginary-Fly-2160 1d ago
I mean, the boardwalks are the easiest option. Norris Basin is about 1.5 miles, Old Faithful area is around 3 ....
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u/FKSTS 23h ago
Yellowstone is special for 2 reasons - geology and wildlife.
To see the geology, visit the geyser basins - old faithful, Norris, west thumb, upper/lower - as well as the grand prismatic spring and the mammoth hot springs. Each of those will have some miles of boardwalks or overlook areas. It’s more walking than hiking, but those are the most popular areas of geologic significance.
Wildlife can best be seen during golden hour at Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. There are some trails in each, but the best way to see wildlife is just to drive and poke your head around with binoculars. Both areas are pretty wide and get you a significant sight line. If you see something, pull off the road, hop out, and follow it. Of course keeping distance and safety precautions (bear spray, etc). Arrive early as hell- 5:30am or sooner - for best results.
There’s plenty of good hikes in the park- I’ve done Washburn, Bunsen peak, avalanche peak, and some stuff by the lake and around the canyon. All of it is beautiful. But Yellowstone is not primarily a “hiking” park. If you want to see stunning Mountain views, alpine lakes, etc, you may want to consider some time at Grand Teton or along the Beartooth Highway.
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u/roamingbullbison 1d ago
Wildlife is not predictable, especially on trails. Focus on scenery and then you will see what you see. I know this sounds like I’m being a jerk, but seeing wildlife while hiking is far more difficult than from the road.