Description

The Mount Washburn Trail is one of the most popular summit routes in Yellowstone National Park.

There is wonderful wildlife in this area, like bighorn sheep, as well as beautiful wildflowers, and awesome views from the top.

Its central location and relative isolation from other peaks mean that Mount Washburn affords epic views across Yellowstone.

From the summit, you can see everything from the sweeping meadows of Hayden Valley, Yellowstone Lake, the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the Tetons 50 miles to the south, and even the steam from the eruption of Old Faithful! *Directions* The trail starts at the parking lot at Dunraven Pass, 4.5 miles north of Canyon Junction.

The trail travels east along a track formerly used by stagecoaches and old automobiles, dating back to the 1900s.

The path twists and turns up the mountain, and it is relatively easy going underfoot.

It’ll take you through patches of lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, and towards the top, you’ll spot the distinctive shimmery white bark of the five-needles whitebark pines.

The path is surrounded by an array of beautiful wildflowers, and often bighorn sheep can be spotted grazing here.

At the top, climb to the top of the fire lookout station, and pop into the small visitor center to get a good overview of the mountain’s interesting history. *Tips* -Be aware that there is no water access along the trail. -Grizzly bears frequent the area in the fall, so avoid doing this hike in those months.

-Be cautious of lightning above treeline, as the Mount Washburn area is prone to dramatic storms.

*Sources:* https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/yell-trail-dunraven-pass-mount-washburn.htm https://www.trailguidesyellowstone.com/yellowstone_hikes/mount_washburn_trail_yellowstone.php#1 https://www.americansouthwest.net/wyoming/yellowstone/mount-washburn-trail.html