Trailside Vitals

1. What is Mount Washburn?

Mount Washburn is a 10,243-foot peak in Yellowstone National Park, located in the Washburn Range of northwestern Wyoming. It offers sweeping panoramic views, abundant wildlife, and a well-maintained trail — making it one of the park’s most popular and accessible hikes. On a clear day, you can see the Grand Tetons to the south, Yellowstone Lake to the southeast, and even steam vents from active geothermal areas.

2. Weather & Best Time to Go

• Best season: Late June to mid-September
• Average temps in summer: 60s°F at the base, 40s°F at the summit
• Winter accessibility: Not recommended; snow closes roads and trails.
• Rain/snow: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer — start early!

Even in peak summer, Mount Washburn’s summit is often windy and 10–20°F cooler than the trailhead. Bring layers and a rain shell no matter what the forecast says.

3. Routes to the Summit

There are two main routes:

• Chittenden Road Trail (5.4 miles round-trip, easier): Gradual incline up a former service road. Limited shade but great views. (ALL TRAILS LINK)
• Dunraven Pass Trail (6.4 miles round-trip, moderate): Forested trail with wildflowers, better for wildlife viewing. (ALL TRAILS LINK)

Both trails lead to the historic fire lookout tower at the summit.

4. What You’ll See

• Panoramic views of Yellowstone’s volcanic basin
• Bighorn sheep, marmots, and bears (grizzlies and black bears)
• Wildflowers in July: lupine, Indian paintbrush, and more
• Fire lookout tower with interpretive displays

5. Day Hike Essentials

• 2–3L of water (no water on trail)
• Sun protection (very exposed trail)
• Windbreaker/fleece (summit winds)
• Bear spray (mandatory in Yellowstone)
• Snacks and electrolytes
• Camera or binoculars

Allow 2.5 to 4 hours round trip, depending on your pace and trail choice.

6. Logistics, Costs & Permits

• Trailheads: Chittenden Road or Dunraven Pass (both off Grand Loop Road)
• Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days); or use America the Beautiful Pass ($80, valid for 365 days in any national park)
• Bear safety: Bear spray required. Keep 100 yards from bears.
• No permits needed for day hikes, but wilderness permits are required for backpacking.
• Parking: Limited — arrive before 9 AM to guarantee a spot, especially at Dunraven.

7. Lodging Options

Inside Yellowstone:

• Canyon Lodge ($275–450/night): Closest lodge to Mount Washburn (15 mins)
• Lake Lodge Cabins ($200–350): Rustic cabins with lake views
• Campgrounds (e.g., Canyon Campground): ~$20–40/night; book months in advance

Just Outside the Park:

• Gardiner, MT (north entrance): Budget hotels and Airbnbs ($100–250/night)
• West Yellowstone, MT (west entrance): More variety, restaurants, and outfitters

Book 6–12 months ahead for in-park lodging. Shoulder seasons (early June or mid-September) offer more availability and fewer crowds.

8. Extra Tips & Warnings

• Altitude: You may feel effects above 10,000 ft — take breaks if needed.
• Lightning risk: Summit early and descend by noon during storm season.
• Wildlife rules: No pets on trails. Carry bear spray, even if “just a day hike.”
• Trail conditions: Check Yellowstone Backcountry Conditions before heading out.

9. Final Thoughts

Mount Washburn is Yellowstone’s most accessible alpine summit — and arguably its most rewarding half-day hike. Whether you’re here for sweeping mountain views, wildlife spotting, or a summit challenge, this trail offers it all. Just be prepared, start early, and soak in one of the most iconic vistas in the American West.