Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail

Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail is a lollipop loop from the West Thumb Geyser Basin parking area to a high meadow above Yellowstone Lake. The listed distance is 1.7 miles; mapping the loop and the approach you retrace comes to about 1.8 miles. It is a good short hike when you want a proper climb and a wide view over West Thumb toward the Absaroka Mountains. Allow 1–3 hours, especially if you want time at the overlook bench.

Start at the southeast corner of the basin parking lot and follow the wooded access path. After roughly a quarter mile, it crosses South Entrance Road and reaches the loop on the west side. The approach is part of the hike, not a separate trailhead: follow it back across the road after the loop closes.

Take the loop counterclockwise if you want the lake in view on the descent. Its first stretch winds through lodgepole pines; the forest then thins and the climb begins. The steeper pitches are short, but the route gains height quickly near the top.

The high meadow opens onto a broad view across the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake, with the Absaroka Mountains beyond. A bench marks the overlook. From there, frame the lake in front of the mountain range; the open slope makes the panorama easier to take in than from the trees below.

Backcountry thermal features lie along the route, including an unnamed one near the overlook. Its type is not established. Stay on the marked trail and follow any detour signs rather than stepping off to investigate.

The loop drops more gradually through meadow and forest. On the south side, the lake remains in view until the trail returns to the trees; the final approach back to the lot is mostly wooded. This route is listed for summer and fall, needs no reservation or separate activity fee, and may require the park entrance fee. Pets are not allowed. Watch for traffic at the South Entrance Road crossing.