YELLOWSTONE FULL DAY HIKING TOURS

A true Yellowstone treasure, the Mount Washburn Trail is not only riddled with history along the path to its 10,243 foot (3,122m) summit, it also bears some of Yellowstone’s most awe inspiring scenery. With its 360 degree views, it is referred to as “the best seat in the house” which makes it possible to see the geographical boundaries of Yellowstone in every direction. Other noteworthy views from the summit include the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (which is directly below to the southeast) and the Teton mountain range (50 miles to the south). While traversing to the summit via the Dunraven Pass trailhead, you will cover 1400 feet (426.7m) in elevation gain over the course of a 3 mile (4.8km) hike. In total you will cover 6 miles (9.6km) on this out and back hike.

Aside from unparalleled views along this hike, there is an abundant variety of wildflowers along the trail. Additionally, it is common to encounter big horn sheep as well as many other small animals such as pikas, golden mantled ground squirrels, red squirrels, or yellow bellied marmots.

Moderately Strenuous Hike

3-6 hours

Sepulcher Mountain is one of two prominent peaks towering over the town of Gardiner Montana at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Named for its tombstone-esque (or sepulcher) hoodoos on its northwestern false summit, this 9600 foot (2926m) peak calls out to the adventurous spirit of any hiker. This 10.2 mile (16.4km) out and back hike will test any seasoned hiker. With an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet (609.6m) to the summit, you’ll finish this hike knowing that you’ve been on a rigorous outing.

 

Although there are many connecting trails that present alternate approaches to Sepulcher Mountain, we generally favor access via the Glen Creek trailhead. Along this route one would be remiss not to consider the history of the very ground upon which you hike. Initially this route trek’s along the flats of Gardner’s Hole. Named for “mountain man”, Johnson Gardner who trapped beaver here in 1830. After roughly 2 miles, the trail will begin climbing a winding grade up the south side of Sepulcher through open meadows of sage and wildflowers (best from June until mid-July). Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with outstanding views of the northern range of Yellowstone as well as a commanding view of Electric Peak towering more than 1000 feet (304.8m) above the Sepulcher summit. After a relaxing break and lunch, we then return via the same route.

 

Possible animal sightings on this hike include elk, moose, mule deer, black bear, grizzly bear, wolves, bighorn sheep, and possibly mountain goats near the summit.