Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Hikes/United States/Wyoming/Yellowstone National Park
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
475 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.1 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
9.6 (13 reviews)
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead
Google Maps
Apple Maps

Bunsen Peak

Views from the Bunsen Peak Hike in Yellowstone National Park
See Map
Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

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!

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 for Bunsen Peak

  • To extend the hike continue down the west side of Bunsen Peak (a looser trail), then loop back along the flat Bunsen Peak Road.

Getting to the Bunsen Peak Trailhead

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.

Route Information

  • 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 Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter