Avalanche Peak hike
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Avalanche Peak hike
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The trail up to Avalanche Peak is one of the highlights of walking in Yellowstone National Park. The hike up is steep, but it all becomes worth it at the top, where plentiful mountain views and gorgeous alpine valleys fill the horizon.
Getting there
Drive towards the east entrance to the park. From Fishing Bridge (the north end of Yellowstone Lake), drive 16.8mi to the east towards Cody, Wyoming. After you pass Sylvan Lake, but before you pass Eleanor Lake, the signs for the trailhead will direct you to park on your right. Here there is limited parking and picnic tables. The trailhead is directly across the road from the parking lot.
About
| When to do | June through September |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | At parking lot and partway up the trail |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Avalanche Peak
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Avalanche Peak
This entire trail is very steep. Right from the beginning you will start climbing. Initially you travel through a densely-wooded forest, passing through several small meadows. Around halfway through the climb you will reach a small plateau where you will be able to see your objective up to the left – a long rocky ridge.
The trail veers to the left and continues to climb. Here you will encounter some scree, so take care. You will shortly come to the southern side of the ridge leading to Avalanche Peak. You’re not done yet, however the rest of the trail is mostly flat.
Continue along the ridge until you reach the northern tip of the crest and bask in the beautiful views that expand in every direction. Across the valley to the southeast you will be able to see Hoyt Peak, and the cirque that extends beyond it. Looking back the way you came, you will be able to spot Grizzly Peak directly across Sylvan Lake, and Top Notch Peak directly to the south. Across the plain to the west you will be able to spot the massive Yellowstone Lake expanding into the horizon.
The best views are north, of Silvertip Peak and the range of mountains that extend to its east. Don’t worry; people have made wind shelters at the top so you can prolong your stay. Bring a warm coat and a windbreaker. Return the way you came.
Insider Hints
Starting early is paramount for this hike. Climbing in the cool temperature makes the elevation gain feel a lot easier.
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HikerNolifer 4 years ago
The trail was challenging but rewarding, so much worth it.
Jane Watkinson 4 years ago
It was a steep trail but the view at the peak was majestic.
Dahlia T. 4 years ago
Another fine day well spent! The rocky ridge was doable, but take extra caution!
Jellybean 4 years ago
For most of the walk you are rewarded with stunning and dramatic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Stewart Graham 4 years ago
I would do it again for sure, the views are worth every bit of the hike!
footfall 4 years ago
I hike pretty often and this one is definitely difficult. Pretty steep incline the whole way but this hike is so amazing so it's worth it!
BoulderBound 4 years ago
Awesome views from the summit after a steep walk up.The trail was challenging but satisfying.
Taylor Amanda 4 years ago
Another beautiful trip and very lucky to have a still day on the top.
Polina Ivanov 5 years ago
I'm not sure If I was dreaming the entire time I was there. It was so beautiful I wanted to cry.
Tom Pack. 5 years ago
The hike up is moderately intense and you pass through diverse and gorgeous terrain