Mount Washburn Spur Trail

NPS / Addy Falgoust

This is a long day hike is started and ended at the same trailhead. However, along the trail are beautiful views of wildflowers, Mount Washburn, and even the Washburn Hot Springs. Alternatively, this trail can be started after ascending Mount Washburn from the Chittenden Road - Mount Washburn Trail or the Dunraven Pass - Mount Washburn Trail, though plans would need to be made for either being dropped off at the alternative trailheads or return to the same.

Safety notes: Be aware of lightning above the treeline. There is no access to water along this trail. Grizzly bears frequent the Mount Washburn area in the fall, seeking out whitebark pine nuts. To help protect yourself and any bears you may encounter, it's important to hike in groups of 3 or more people, make noise, and carry bear spray (and know how to use it). These hikes are not recommended for persons with heart and/or respiratory problems.

Trailheads: Glacial Boulder pullout on the road to Inspiration Point.

Details

Duration

8-10 Hours

This is a 16.2-mile (25.9-kilometer) there-and-back trail that begins and ends at the same trailhead.

Activity

Hiking

Strenuous hike

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River

This trail is in the central part of the park, on the north side of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

Reservations

No

Season

Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

  

More on Day Hikes in Yellowstone

• 

  Yellowstone Backcountry Situation Report

  Current conditions for Yellowstone National Park trails and campsites.

• 

  Wildlife Safety

  Learn how to help keep yourself, and the wildlife you encounter, safe.

• 

  Yellowstone Day Hikes

  Lace up your boots and explore some of the over 1,000 miles of trails in Yellowstone National Park.