Mount Washburn Trail

Overview

Mount Washburn tops out at 10,219 feet and dishes out true, all-directions Yellowstone panoramas—from the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to the Absaroka and Beartooth ranges, with Yellowstone Lake and Lamar Valley in the mix. A historic fire lookout crowns the summit, with interpretive exhibits and bathrooms when open. Expect exposure and wind up high; this is a classic summit hike for good reason.

Route Options

You’ve got two main ways up:

• Dunraven Pass (South): about 7.0 miles round trip with roughly 1,400 feet of gain on a wide, steady grade. Figure around 3.5–4 hours for most hikers.
• Chittenden Road (North): roughly 5.4–5.6 miles round trip with about 1,500 feet of gain. It’s shorter but steeper in stretches and follows a road-width path; bicycles are allowed from this side. Either way, you’re climbing above 10,000 feet—moderate on paper, but altitude and wind can make it feel tougher.

What You’ll See

This is a viewpoint parade: cliff bands of the canyon, far-off Beartooths, and big-sky country in every direction. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and pikas near the talus. On clear afternoons the light can be spectacular; many hikers love timing the summit for late-day views. Wildflowers typically pop in July.

Best Times to Hike

Prime season is summer into early fall. Early season (even mid-June) can keep snow lingering on the upper half, and the lookout facilities may be closed. Late season brings colder temps and notorious summit winds. Start early for cooler temps, easier parking, and thinner crowds; late-day light is beautiful, but bring layers and a headlamp if you flirt with sunset.

Essentials, Access, and Facilities

• Dunraven Pass trailhead sits about 4.5 miles north of Canyon Junction, with limited parking and a vault toilet. The Chittenden Road lot serves the shorter, steeper north approach. Parking fills—arrive early.
• There is no water on the trail. Pack what you need and add extra for wind-dried conditions.
• The summit fire lookout includes exhibits and bathrooms when open; it may be closed early in the season or for operations.

Safety and Wildlife

This is fully exposed alpine terrain: lightning is a real hazard above treeline, and winds can be fierce even in midsummer. Grizzly bears frequent the area in fall (especially September–October) to feed; hiking then is not recommended. Carry bear spray, make noise, and give all wildlife space. Snow can persist into June, and conditions change quickly—bring warm layers and a windproof shell.

Bottom Line

If you want Yellowstone’s biggest bang-for-buck summit, this is it. Choose Dunraven for a steadier, classic climb; pick Chittenden if you want a shorter push (or to bike the approach). Come prepared for wind, sun, and altitude, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the park’s signature views.