Experience the vibrant colors of Fall in Yellowstone National Park! Discover our top 5 Autumn hikes for your ultimate travel inspiration.
Yellowstone National Park’s trails become a tapestry of autumnal beauty during the fall season, making them the perfect choice for hikers. As the leaves change, trails like Fairy Falls, Mystic Falls, and Storm Point, all approximately 5 miles or less in length, offer a stunning array of reds, yellows, and oranges. The cooler temperatures and thinner crowds create an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Whether you’re captivated by geothermal wonders or tranquil lakeshores, these Yellowstone trails in fall offer an unforgettable hiking experience amidst nature’s vibrant transformation.
View the Grand Prismatic Spring is located in Midway Geyser Basin by taking the Midway Geyser Basin boardwalk.
1. Fairy Falls Trail
Length 5 mi
Elevation gain 170 ft
Route type Out & back
Dogs: Not permitted
Fairy Falls Trail is typically completed in about 1 hour and 35 minutes. This easy route is frequented by campers, hikers, and runners. Along the way, enjoy the picturesque Fairy Falls, and don’t miss the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook for breathtaking views of Yellowstone’s vibrant geothermal wonders. Though you can’t soak in the spring, it’s a must-visit spot to appreciate the park’s colorful geothermal features.
2. Mystic Falls Trail
Length 2.4 mi
Elevation gain 147 ft
Route type Out & back
Dogs: Not permitted
Savor the 2.4-mile out-and-back trail near West Yellowstone, Montana, typically taking around 50 minutes to complete—an ideal choice for hikers. Expect company on this popular route, best enjoyed between May and October. The highlight is the 70-foot Mystic Falls, followed by a visit to nearby Biscuit Basin, offering various thermal features, including inviting hot springs, making it a rewarding hiking experience.
3. Storm Point Trail
Length 2.5 mi
Elevation gain 98 ft
Route type Loop
Dogs: Not permitted
Explore the delightful 2.5-mile loop trail near West Yellowstone, Montana, typically taking about 49 minutes to complete—an excellent option for hikers. Given its popularity, expect company while exploring, especially from June through October. This lakeside trail winds through a wooded landscape, treating you to picturesque Yellowstone Lake views. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and other wildlife that might grace your path, enhancing the charm of this scenic hiking experience.
4. Lone Star Geyser Trail
Length 5 mi
Elevation gain 127 ft
Route type Out & back
Dogs: Not permitted
Explore the 5-mile out-and-back trail near West Yellowstone, Montana, a generally easy route taking around 1 hour and 38 minutes—an area popular for camping, hiking, and mountain biking, often frequented from May through October. Its highlight is the Lone Star Geyser, known for eruptions approximately every 3 hours, offering an opportunity to relax in nearby hot springs. This scenic trail combines beautiful landscapes with the unique experience of witnessing a geyser and enjoying hot springs during one rewarding hike.
5. Artist Paint Pots Trail
Length 1.0 mi
Elevation gain 101 ft
Route type Loop
Dogs: Not permitted
Explore the 1.0-mile loop trail near West Yellowstone, Montana—a straightforward route that typically takes just 23 minutes to complete. This popular area, ideal for birding, hiking, and running, sees frequent visitors from May through November. The trail’s main attraction is a vibrant hydrothermal area, featuring bubbling mud pots and colorful thermal pools. It offers an easy and accessible walk amidst a unique geothermal landscape, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a short but remarkable outdoor experience.
Hiking in Yellowstone National Park during the fall is an extraordinary experience. As the vibrant foliage blankets the landscape and the crowds thin out, it becomes a serene and picturesque wonderland. The trails offer a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife sightings, and geothermal wonders, making it an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Yellowstone National Park charges an entrance fee, please visit NPS: Entrance Fees and Park Passes for more information.
You might also enjoy 10 Beautiful Photos to Inspire Your Next Fall Adventure: Shenandoah National Park.
Check out a few helpful lightweight hiking gear below –
Proper hiking socks provide cushioning, moisture-wicking, and support, preventing blisters and discomfort, ensuring a comfortable and injury-free hiking experience.
Proper hiking shoes offer stability, grip, and protection, reducing the risk of injuries, enhancing comfort, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable hiking adventure. Here are men’s and women’s lightweight hiking shoe options:
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