Are dogs allowed on Mount Washburn Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Mount Washburn Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Mount Washburn Trail?

No, Mount Washburn Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Mount Washburn Trail?

Mount Washburn Trail is rated moderate. It is 6.0 miles long with 1,401 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Mount Washburn Trail?

Mount Washburn Trail is best hiked in summer. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

ModerateOut and Back

Yellowstone National Park/Wyoming

Mount Washburn Trail

Canyon Village, Wyoming

6.0 mi

Distance

1,401 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 46m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Climb to historic fire lookout at 10,243 feet with 360-degree views including the Yellowstone Caldera. Excellent for bighorn sheep sightings on summit slopes.

Trail Conditions

Open

Updated Apr 19, 2026 — may be out of date

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weatherUneven terrain

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:307-344-7381
Address:2 Officers Row, Yellowstone National Park Headquarters · Yellowstone National Park, WY · 82190

Best Seasons

Summer

Highlights

Fire lookoutBighorn sheepCaldera viewsWildflowers360-degree panorama

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Verified from National Park Service public trails dataset

Trail centerline: National Park Service public trails dataset. Source ↗

Mount Washburn Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

Nearby Trails

Lamar Valley Trail

Bunsen Peak

Gibbon Falls

Sheep Falls

Fawn Pass to Bighorn Pass Cutoff

Fairy Falls Trail

Other trails in Yellowstone National Park

Fairy Falls Trail

Uncle Tom's Trail

Lamar Valley Trail

Bunsen Peak

Lone Star Geyser Trail

Gibbon Falls

Campgrounds near this trail

Pelican Cone Cabin

Pelican Springs Cabin

4R2 Back country campsite

Canyon Campground

4R1 Back country campsite

Backcountry Cascade Lake site 4E4

Similar trails in Wyoming

Fairy Falls Trail

Cascade Canyon Trail

Darby Canyon Wind Cave Trail

Snow King Summit via Slow Trail

Bunsen Peak

Medicine Bow Peak via Lakes Trail Loop