Osprey Falls Trail (U.S. National Park Service)

Hikers head through an open forest along a dirt trail.

Follow Old Bunsen Peak Road through grassland and burned forest 3 miles (4.9 km) to Osprey Falls Trail. Descend 700 feet (213 m) into Sheepeater Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in Yellowstone National Park. Osprey Falls, on the Gardner River, plunges 150 feet (46 m) over the edge of a lava flow. Return by the same route.

Safety notes: Grizzly bears frequent this area. Follow Old Bunsen Peak Road for 3 miles (4.9 km) to Osprey Falls Trail. Hiking and biking allowed on Old Bunsen Peak Road. No bikes allowed on Osprey Falls Trail.

Trailhead: 5 miles (8 km) south of Mammoth on the Grand Loop Road. Park in the gravel lot just south of Golden Gate, across from the Glen Creek trailhead.

This is an 8-mile (12.8-kilometer) there-and-back trail that begins and ends at the same trailhead.

Strenuous hike

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

This trail iis located in the northern part of the park, with the trailhead just south of Golden Gate and Rustic Falls. The parking area is unpaved and relatively small, and can be full during the summer.