Bunsen Peak Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
5-7h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.1 km
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.
775 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Bunsen Peak Loop is a fantastic hike in Yellowstone. This 16.1 km long trail is moderately challenging and not recommended for children. This route visits the top of Bunsen Peak, and the base of Osprey Falls, a gorgeous 46 m tall waterfall on the Gardner River.

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Route Description for Bunsen Peak Loop

The Bunsen Peak Loop is a wonderful hiking trail. This route is long and moderately strenuous throughout. Proper hiking footwear is essential for this route, and we strongly recommend bringing along a set of hiking poles for some extra support. As with any hike in Yellowstone National Park, be sure that everyone in your hiking party is familiar with bear safety protocols. At least one member of your group should carry bear spray and know how to use it properly. If you do encounter wild animals, do not approach or feed them and be sure to admire them from a safe distance.

The Bunsen Peak Loop tours the incredible beauty of Yellowstone National Park with forest, mountain, and river scenery. The peak itself is actually named after German chemist Robert Bunsen who famously invented the Bunsen Burner. In the 1800s, Bunsen did early research on volcanic geysers such as those commonly found in Yellowstone National Park.

To hike the Bunsen Peak Loop, begin at the Bunsen Peak Trailhead and take the Bunsen Peak Trail on your left to hike the circuit clockwise. Make your way to the top of Bunsen Peak (2599m) and enjoy the views before descending all the way down to the Gardner River to check out Osprey Falls. Osprey Falls itself is a stunning, 150-foot tall waterfall along the Gardner River named for the abundance of osprey who live and hunt in the river canyon. After enjoying the falls, make your way back up the riverbank, then follow the Old Bunsen Peak Road all the way to the Bunsen Peak Trailhead, where you began.

Getting to the Bunsen Peak Loop Trailhead

This hike begins at the Bunsen Peak Trailhead on Grand Loop Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    April to October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Bunsen Peak Loop Elevation Graph

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Bunsen Peak Loop Reviews

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