Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak
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Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak
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The Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak is a gorgeous hike that earns you incredible views of Yellowstone National Park. This trail can be done as a full day hike or broken up into an overnight backpacking trip by camping at Cascade Lake. The climb up to the top of Observation Peak is steep and strenuous and not recommended for families with young children.
Getting there
This hike begins at the Cascade Lake Trailhead on Grand Loop Road just north of the Canyon Village.
About
| Backcountry Campground | Cascade Creek, Cascade Lake North |
| When to do | June to October |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Low |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak
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Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak Description
The Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak is a moderately challenging hike. This trail features a steep and strenuous climb to the top of Observation Peak. Proper hiking footwear and lots of water are essential for this route, and we strongly recommend bringing along a set of hiking poles to aid your ascent and save your knees some strain on the way back down. Though the climb will leave your muscles burning, the views from the top of Observation Peak are worth it. Don’t forget the camera; you will earn yourself an incredible 360-degree view of Yellowstone National Park stretching out to the horizon line from the top.
Beginning at the Cascade Lake Trailhead, follow the path east to Cascade Lake. At Cascade Lake, take the path on your right to head north up to the top of Observation Peak.
At the top of Observation Peak, take a well-deserved rest and snap some photos of the Wyoming wilderness before turning around and retracing your steps back to the Cascade Lake Trailhead where you began.
Check out the Observation Peak via Cascade Creek Trail for a variation on this route.
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