There is hardly any nature lover who will not be eager to visit the captivating landscape of the Yellowstone National Park. Located mostly in Wyoming, the park covers an area of 8,990 square kilometres and is a diverse ecosystem that is unique in its beauty. It is a zone of wilderness that is the perfect spot to park your car and tighten your hiking shoes for a hike into the wilderness.
The vast area of the park offers more than 50 different hiking trails, with each offering a unique shade of beauty. So here is our list of the top six hikes in the Yellowstone national park.
The Electric Peak
The peak was named after the first climbers who got caught in a thunderstorm while climbing it. Being one of the tallest mountains in the park, the sweeping views from the top of the peak is worth the tough hike to the top. Starting from the Glen Creek trail head, the thrill of the trail makes it most suited for expert and intermediate level hikers and ideally the route needs to be done in three days to enjoy the scenic beauty. It is necessary to check the weather details and take the right guide with you when you head for this route.
Mount Washburn
This is a classic dayhike that moves to the 10,243 feet high crest of the peak offering a classic panorama of the Yellowstone landscape along with views of the Hayden Valley and the Yellowstone Lake. It can be reached by a 2.5-mile Chittenden road track or a 3 mile hike starting from the Dunraven Pass. There is a chance to spot the bighorn sheep or even a few grizzlies in the area. Since the region is prone to thunderstorms, it is best to complete the trek by midday.
Lone Star Geyser Trail
This is an easy trail of 4.8 miles and some of it is paved, making it ideal for the aged as well as for children. The road is closed for vehicular traffic and only bicycles are allowed. The solitary geyser located in a pristine setting in the forest offers a splendid display. The lone star geyser erupts after every three hours and the water can reach the heights of up to 45 feet.
Riddle Lake
The Riddle Lake is another option for a relaxed dayhike but is no less rewarding in terms of natural beauty. The abundance of lily plants make the surrounding of the lake more beautiful but due to the presence of foraging bears, it is recommended that the hikers travel in groups. The shoreline offers lovely views of the surroundings with Mount Sheridan rising behind the lake. The route remains closed between April to July due to the activity of the bears.
The Specimen Ridge Trail
This is a trail that is ideal for tough hikers and offers a magnificent scenery along with a diverse range of flora and fauna. Starting at the Specimen Ridge Trailhead, the trails ascends steeply up the Amethyst Mountains and then drops down into the spectacular Lamar Valley. There are plenty of chances to spot wildlife like elk, antelope and bears in the trail. The trail requires route finding and also a fording across the Lamar River. Check for the water leaves from the park ranger before you start for the trail.
The Sky Rim Trail
If you want to enjoy an extended dose of mountain scenery, this 21 mile long trail is a great choice for you. The route climbs over two mountains and offers excellent views, even though the trail is steep and rocky in many areas. Following an undulating ridgeline, the trail heads to the top of the Bighorn Peak and then heads down to meet the Specimen Creek Trail.
While following the trails make sure you have the right kind of footwear and carry enough water to last for the day. Also ensure that you have maps and a compass suitable for day hikes and it is best to use sunglasses and sunscreens for high altitudes.
