Elephant Back Mountain Trail

Route Description for Elephant Back Mountain Trail

The Elephant Back Mountain Trail is a great, moderately challenging hike in Yellowstone. This trail is a steep and steady climb. Hikers should arrive with proper, supportive hiking shoes, plenty of water, and a snack to enjoy at the summit. We recommend bringing along a set of hiking poles on this trail to aid your ascent and save your knees some strain on the way back down. With incredible views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding wilderness, the Elephant Back Mountain Trail is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon in Yellowstone National Park.

Beginning at the Elephant Back Trailhead, follow the path northwest for just under a mile to a divide. This divide marks the beginning and end of the circuit to the summit overlook. Take the path on your left to hike the circuit clockwise; this gives you the best views. Make your way up to the summit and back.

When you find yourself back in familiar territory, simply retrace your path back out to the Elephant Back Trailhead where you began.