Osprey Falls Trail

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

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.

Details

Duration

4-6 Hours

This is an 8-mile (12.8-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

Mammoth Hot Springs

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.

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.