Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak
Table of contents
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.
Route Description for Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak
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.
Getting to the Cascade Lake Trail to Observation Peak Trailhead
This hike begins at the Cascade Lake Trailhead on Grand Loop Road just north of the Canyon Village.
Route Information
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 Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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!
Nearby Trails
Cascade Creek Trail
Yellowstone National Park
Artist’s Point, Lily Pad Lake, and Clear Lake Loop
Yellowstone National Park
Hike from Seven Mile Hole to Mount Washburn Spur
Yellowstone National Park
Observation Peak via the Cascade Creek Trail
Yellowstone National Park
Brink of Lower Falls via the North Rim Trail
Yellowstone National Park
North Rim Trail to Red Rock Point, Lookout Point and Grand View
Yellowstone National Park
Red Rock Point via Red Point Trail
Yellowstone National Park
Cascade Lake
Yellowstone National Park
Seven Mile Hole Trail
Yellowstone National Park
Cascade Creek Trail
Yosemite National Park
Cascade Creek Trail
Indian Peaks Wilderness
Brink of the Lower Falls
Yellowstone National Park