Bunsen Peak hike
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Bunsen Peak hike
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Rising above the grassy planes and the herds of buffalo, the hike up Bunsen Peak will give you a new perspective on where you have been travelling. The short climb on a well-maintained trail is well worth the plentiful views of Yellowstone!
Getting there
Drive south of Mammoth towards Norris Junction for 5.0mi and turn off at the Bunsen Peak parking lot. The turnoff is just as you leave the Golden Gate Canyon. This miniscule parking lot fills up nearly instantaneously, so get there early.
About
| When to do | May through October |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | At Parking Lot |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Bunsen Peak
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Bunsen Peak
Shortly after starting up the trail you will come to a junction, take the left path leading up to Bunsen Peak. This trail switchbacks mildly up the entire mountain – a fantastic introduction to gaining some elevation in a hike.
As you hike and from the top you will able to look north down the Golden Gate Canyon toward Mammoth. The most visible views will be of Electric Peak and the Gallatin Range to the west. Beautiful – albeit dead – standing trees line the entire climb, as does the ever-expanding view of the Swan Lake Flats.
Two thirds of the way up the hike you will get a view of the impressive rock feature called Cathedral Rock. From here the scenes of Mammoth Hot Springs and Mount Everts are the best.
Bunsen Peak hike in 2024
Bunsen Peak remains a notable hiking destination in Yellowstone National Park and is expected to be busy in 2024. Like other hikes in Yellowstone National Park, if you chose to hike Bunsen Peak it is advisable to start your hike early, as the parking at the trailhead has very limited parking spots.
Insider Hints
To extend the hike continue down the west side of Bunsen Peak (a looser trail), then loop back along the flat Bunsen Peak Road.
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jamaieca 4 years ago
Excellent hike! I think I left my heart somewhere...along the grassy planes.
MamaBear 4 years ago
The view when you reach the top is spectacular.
Jellybean 4 years ago
It’s a simple climb with moderate effort and a nice view waiting for you at the top. Make sure to sign the guest book at the top!
Stewart Graham 4 years ago
The amazing views at the top are well worth the effort.
footfall 4 years ago
Great path going to the top. Moderately challenging
Matty E. 4 years ago
Good hike. The temperature was great also. Views from the top were impressive enough.
Tati Max 4 years ago
There are tremendous views at the top. Wonderful short climb.
MissGiggles 5 years ago
Moderate hike that wasn't easy to get to the top. The views are beautiful and the path to the top is well maintained
Carmilla Shzm 5 years ago
Lovely trip. Love the view of Mount Everts. Bunden Peak is fine.
Wildmind 5 years ago
A charming hike in Yellowstone. It's definitely a great spot to take photos during golden hour.