Sepulcher Mountain Trail

The Sepulcher Mountain Trail is a fantastic route in Yellowstone National Park. This trail is challenging, with a steep ascent to the mountain’s summit. Hikers should begin their hike early in the day and bring along a headlamp in case they wind up finishing in the dark. It is essential to bring lots of snacks on your hike. High-calorie, salty treats are best as they fuel your activity and replenish electrolytes lost along the way. If you are planning on hiking the Sepulcher Mountain trail, bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially if you are heading out in the heat of summer; we recommend at least 4L per person. As with any trail in Yellowstone, bring a canister of bear spray on your hike and know how to use it in case of a bear encounter.

The Sepulcher Mountain Trail not only offers a great challenge but incredible views as well. Traveling over diverse terrain and past wonderful forest flora and fauna, the Sepulcher Mountain Trail is beautiful at every twist and turn.

To hike the Sepulcher Mountain Trail, begin at the trailhead and follow the path west along Clematis Creek for 0.2 miles to a divide. This first divide marks the beginning and end of the Sepulcher Mountain Circuit. At this divide, take the path on your right to follow the loop counterclockwise. Continue along Clematis Creek for approximately 1.3mi to another split, take the trail on your right once again and head northwest up to the top of Sepulcher Mountain.

Enjoy a well-deserved rest at the summit and snap a few photos before heading down the mountain’s south side to Glen Creek. At Glen Creek, take the trail on your left to hike southeast along the creek for 0.7mi to a divide. At this divide, take the trail on your left to hike over Snow Pass. On the other side of the pass, the trail splits; take the path on your right, then stick to the left-hand trail at the subsequent divides to make your way back to the beginning of the Sepulcher Mountain Circuit.

Once you find yourself back in familiar territory, simply retrace your steps back to the Sepulcher Mountain Trailhead, where you began.

Trail Highlights

Sepulcher Mountain

Sepulcher Mountain is a 9642ft-tall peak in northeastern Yellowstone National Park that was named in 1871 by US army captain John W. Barlow for its resemblance to a crypt.