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Update: April 23 2023
Traveling the spectacular Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park takes visitors through some of the park’s most beautiful and unique natural features. Yellowstone’s Grand Circle constitutes the interior roads within the park and is roughly shaped like an angled figure-eight. Most people explore making a figure 8 with an upper loop and a lower loop. The northern upper Grand Road loop figure “8” circles Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower-Roosevelt, Canyon Junction and Norris Junction, before returning to Mammoth.
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Mammoth Hot Springs to Tower Junction
Our favorite section is traveling the North Grand Loop Road between Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower Junction. The northern section of Yellowstone differs vastly from the western section and its geothermal features. The section between Mammoth and Tower features scenic mountain vistas, wildflower meadows, and peaceful lakes and streams.
What I love most about this area is the abundant opportunities to sight wildlife, especially if you travel during the early morning hours. Today, we spot a single car pulled off the highway. Curious, we slow down, only to see a lone black bear ambling through the forest. The prospects of seeing animals like this happen quickly in Yellowstone, so always have your camera ready!!
Sheepeater Canyon Bridge-North Grand Loop Road
Just east of Mammoth Hot Springs, the North Grand Loop Road crosses the Gardiner River. We take a moment to stop at Sheepeater Canyon Bridge. It was breathtaking. You can hear the rushing waters of the Gardiner River as it makes its way to join the Yellowstone River.
Constructed in 1915, the 925-foot-tall reinforced concrete arch spans Sheepeater Canyon. The Gardner River carved a small, deep valley that lies 70 feet below the surface. The Sheepeater Indians were a local Shoshone tribe band, and their name was given to the famous Warren Truss design bridge. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Note: a new bridge will be constructed beside this bridge. Automobile traffic will use the existing bridge while the new bridge is under construction. Not sure of the fate of the bridge once construction is complete.
Spectacular Undine Falls on the North Grand Loop Road
The falls are located 4-miles outside Mammoth Hot Springs. There is a pullout off the north Grand Loop Road, where you can stop to view the falls. Lava Creek forms Undine Falls (pronounced UNdeen), which plunges over a 30-foot drop into a deep pool below after flowing down a succession of steep cascades.
Named Geologist-Arnold Hague, he thought the falls were mystical. The name “Undine” comes from German mythology and refers to a water spirit or nymph. The people thought the spirits lived around waterfalls and could gain souls by marrying mortal men. In June, because of snowmelt, the falls had a relatively high volume of water tumbling down the three rock tiers. We took some time to photograph these pretty waterfalls. Though it seems like humans, not the park service, constructed the unimproved trail that leads to the foot of the falls.
Lunch at Lava Creek Picnic Area on the North Grand Loop Road
It was a beautiful breezy day as we head down the Grand Loop Road, before stopping for lunch at the Lava Creek Picnic Area,. There are 5 picnic tables scattered along the edge of the Lava Creek. Lava Creek is known for its clear, cold waters. This is a marvelous spot to relax in the relative quiet, listening to the creek. We walked south along the creek for a little way, but did not see any animals. Lots of deadfalls across the trail.
Lava Creek Canyon Trail-North Grand Loop Road
The trailhead is opposite the picnic area across the north Grand Loop road, on the northeast side of the bridge. Both people and wildlife use this heavily traveled trail. The trail is approximately 9.2 miles long and considered a moderate hike. This is best done as a one-way trail but requires two vehicles (return to Mammoth campground trailhead). The trail overall descends 1000 feet toward the Gardiner River. In the spring, the trail can be very muddy in spots. I would suggest sturdy walking or hiking shoes and quality trekking stick.
We did the trek to the falls and saw lots of amazing wildflowers. After a mile, we made it to the top of Undine Falls. We soaked our feet in the river before turning around for the uphill climb back to the picnic area. If you continue downhill through Lava Creek Canyon, the trail from here follows Lava Creek until it convergences with the Gardiner River. The trail along the river is through a sagebrush flat, reaching the bridge. You will need to cross the wobbly suspension bridge over Gardner River to complete the hike. NOTE: Currently, the bridge is down because of the flooding of 2022.
Three important facts come to mind if you plan to do this trial. First, make sure you are physically fit. Some parts of the trail near Undine Falls can be steep. Second, take a lot of water in a refillable water bottle and some snack food. You can refill water bottles at various water stations throughout the park. Third most important part to remember is that this is grizzly bear country, so bear spray is a must on the trail for your protection.
Hike Beautiful Wraith Falls along the North Grand Loop Road
Wraith Falls is a 0.8-mile out and back trail. They rated it as an easy hike suitable for all skill levels. This 100 foot fall, cascade down a gentle slope as it empties into Lupine Creek. Heavily travelled, the trail is clearly marked and easy to follow. There is a raised overlook platform at the end that gives you outstanding views of the falls.
It is said that in 1885, a party from the U.S. Geological Survey, specifically Arnold Hague, thought they looked like an apparition or a ghost.
We found this to be an excellent hike for a stretch break. It’s a great option for those looking for a quick hike or for families with young children. This hike is easy level trail-moving through the meadow with lots of spring wildflowers and only has a moderate elevation gain near the falls. The trail provides an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing, as the surrounding area is home to a variety of animals, including black bears, bison, and elk. On our trip, we saw a lone bison cruise through the meadow.
BlackTail Pond Hike
On the north side of the road, Blacktail pond is named after the black-tailed deer that can often be seen in the surrounding area. Blacktail Pond is a popular spot for fishing, as it is home to a variety of fish species, including cutthroat trout and brook trout. It is also a popular destination for wildlife viewing, with elk, bison, and other animals frequently seen in the area. In the early spring, look for trumpeter swans as they return here yearly.
Detour taking Blacktail Plateau Drive
This one-way gravel road is 8-miles outside Mammoth Hot Springs. The 6-mile drive that takes about thirty minutes to drive. It will bring you back to the Grans Loop North roadway. However, if you have the time, it is a great way to get off the beaten path. At times the road is rough and washboard in many places, but for us it was manageable. Just drive it slow. Throughout the drive we kept our eyes peeled for bison, elk, deer, coyotes, and silently hoping to possibly see bears or wolves. Be sure to have binoculars and a camera with you as they can enhance your wildlife viewing experience. There are several pullouts where you can stop and look for wildlife.
Blacktail Plateau Drive is typically open from late May or early June through October, weather permitting. During the winter months, the road is closed to vehicle traffic but can be used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Floating Island Lake
This is another small kettle pond left behind by long-gone glaciers. It got its unusual name from what was thought to be a floating island of weeds that moved with the wind. The rolling hills here are a good place for spy pika. The shallow lake is ideal place for birdwatching. Look for trumpeter swans, or sand hill cranes. If you are real lucky you may see a moose. Today we took the short trail down to see the Yellow-Headed Blackbirds nesting in the cattails that line the banks. However, a large herd of bison with calves was only a short distance away, and was moving in our direction, so we moved back towards the car.
Hell Roaring Trail Overlook
From the overlook, visitors can see breathtaking views of the Hell Roaring Creek as it winds its way through the Lamar Valley. The Absaroka Mountains in the background on a clear day are stunning. The overlook provided us with an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing, as bison, elk, and other animals. The Hellroaring creek trail is 18.2-miles that can be strenuous. If you are up to the challenge you will find it is a beautiful wilderness trail.
There is a small parking area at the overlook, as well as a short trail that leads to a higher vantage point for even more dramatic vistas. We found the trial is relatively easy and suitable for most skill levels. Always interested in geology, the canyon below was formed by the flowing Hellroaring Creek, which has been changing this terrain for millennia.
Stop at the Petrified Tree Along the North Grand Loop
The Petrified Tree in Yellowstone National Park is a unique and fascinating geological feature. The tree is one of the best preserved ancient redwoods in the world. Just before the intersection of the Tower-Roosevelt area, we drove the short dirt road to see the Petrified Tree. The parking lot was full, so we ended up parking on the side of the hill, then walking uphill to the overlook. Here we could view the Petrified Tree from a boardwalk that surrounds the base of the tree. Because of vandalism, they fenced around the tree. My hope is it will last 50 more years. It is impressive to look closely at the intricate details and patterns of the petrified wood.
The Petrified Tree is a 50-foot-long fossilized tree trunk that dates back to the Eocene epoch, which was approximately 50 million years ago. Originally, the tree was a towering redwood that fell into a river. Where it became buried by sediment. Over time, minerals in the sediment replaced the tree’s organic material with stone, creating a petrified fossil.
This area is a best in the early morning. Sometimes bear and moose frequent the lower meadows. The valley is lush and green with grasses that wildlife can browse on in the early spring.
Hike to Lost Lake Trail Finding Solitude
Visitors can access the trail behind the Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins or from the Petrified Tree. If you begin at Roosevelt, the trail to Lost Lake is approximately 3.3 miles one way, with a total elevation gain of around 800 feet. If you start here, it will be a steep climb to the lake. However, the trail from the Petrified tree is 0.5 miles one way and is a relatively easy level trail. The highlight of the hike is Lost Lake, which is a spectacular alpine lake set in a high mountain valley. Towering peaks surrounded by dense forest ring this lake. For me, it provided a tranquil setting for a picnic lunch.
As with any hike in Yellowstone National Park, it’s important to come prepared with Bear spray Other hikers mentioned, seeing a black bear on the trail earlier.
From Lost Lake, hikers can continue on to other nearby trails, including the Mount Norris Trail and the Cache Creek Trail. Both trails offer additional opportunities for exploration and adventure in this stunning wilderness.
The Road to Tower Fall on Tower Creek
The Grand Loop Road turns south again after Tower Junction, heading toward Canyon Village. The next stop along the road is Tower Fall. The waterfall is on Tower Creek, a tributary of the Yellowstone River. Tower Creek originates from the Absaroka Mountains and flows through the northeast region of Yellowstone National Park.
Lower Falls drops 132 ft. down cascades down a series of rocky ledges into Tower Creek. This water travels only a short distance in the creek before converging with the Yellowstone River. The name “Tower” is derived from the nearby rock formations known as the Tower Junction. The Washburn expedition in 1870 named the creek for these towering volcanic spires that surround the falls.
The waterfall is best viewed from a distance. Just off the Grand Loop road, parking is beside the Tower Fall General Store. From the overlook at the end of the parking area, we took in the scenic beauty. The area is a mix of forests, meadows, and rocky terrain.
You can take a trail from the parking lot that goes down to the Yellowstone river below the falls. It is steep in a few places but will get you marvelous views of the river. Unfortunately, because of severe erosion, you can no longer take the trail to the base of the falls.
Dunraven Pass Highest Point on the Grand Loop Road
The pass is named after a former British politician, Edward William Dunraven, who visited the area in the late 19th century. Dunraven Pass is situated at an elevation of 8,859 feet (2,700 meters) above sea level and is the highest point on the park’s Grand Loop Road.
This section of winding drive is one of the most difficult in the park. Stopping at the top, we could see gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape, including the Absaroka Range to the east and the Gallatin Range to the northwest. We also noted the old burn scars and stunted trees from the 1988 fires. It gave us an eerie feeling. In some places, there was still snow at the top of the mountain. Taking advantage made snowballs and enjoyed a snowball fight. As the snow melts, we saw blooming valley flowers peaking through.
The area around the pass is home to a variety of hiking trails, including the Mount Washburn Trail, which offers panoramic views of the park from its summit. The park services notes that this pass is typically open from late May through October, depending on weather conditions.
Note: Check with the rangers before driving the pass is advisable since even summer snow can close the pass. Weather can change quickly in Yellowstone, so be sure to check the forecast before setting out on any hiking trails.
Hiking the Mount Washburn Trail
Mt. Washburn has to be the best view for the least amount of hiking in Yellowstone. From the Grand Loop Road., drive up Chittenden Rd. to the parking area, then hike an easy 2.5 miles on a gravel road (closed to autos) to the fire/observation station atop Mt. Washburn. Word of advice, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a trekking stick suitable for hiking. Wear a jacket as it gets freezing as you climb higher in elevation to 3,000 feet. Once we reached the summit, it rewarded us with a panoramic 360-degree view of the park. The endless views include the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, and the Absaroka Range. On a clear day, you may even see the Tetons in the distance. Today was a bit cloudy, so our views were a little obscured.
Alternatively, you can take the Mount Washburn Trail, which is approximately 6.2 miles round trip. It’s considered a moderate hike, with an elevation gain of about 1,400 feet. The trailhead is off Dunraven Pass between Tower Junction and Canyon Village. This trail starts in a dense forest and gradually ascends to the tree line. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of wildflowers and wildlife, including bighorn sheep, marmots, and pika.
At the top, the views go on forever. You can see the entire park and the Tetons in the distance. There is a National Park Service Fire Lookout station at the Peak where you can take a breather before returning down the trail.
Planning Resources
- Lodging options available within Yellowstone National Park–visit this website to see the options available in the Park. Book at least a year in advance.
- Rent an RV–this is a great way to experience the park.
- Campground information is available through the official Park website
- Map of Yellowstone National Park–a great resource to plan your trip and understand the distances you need to travel.
- Yellowstone National Park Official Site–Plan your visit, get updates on road conditions and general information.
- Free Yellowstone National Park Planner–free trip planning guide, a digital version is available.
- Dining Options in Yellowstone-Looking for places to get a good meal. Visit the website to see what options are available. There are 52 picnic areas throughout the park.
- Download the Yellowstone GyPSy Guide Tour App before you leave town or use the official NPS Yellowstone App features live updates to the status of lodges, campgrounds, roads, and geyser predictions when in cell service. On the App Store and on Google Play.
Final Thoughts on Traveling the Magnificent North Grand Loop Road
One thing to note is that while the Grand Loop roadway might be congested at times, (especially during peak season) the park’s sheer size means that there are always backcountry places where you can find solitude. Escaping the crowds in the park means you need to hike away from the road. Yellowstone does offer something for everyone.
For us traveling the picturesque Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park was a wonderful experience. It had us us appreciating the natural wonders of this incredible park. It was pure joy driving along the Grand Loop Road. We loved having the opportunity to explore these magical places firsthand. Whether you’re trekking to a waterfall or observing bison or other wildlife on the road, every moment in Yellowstone is unforgettable.
Did you travel the Grand Loop Road? Please tell us about what you liked most and the trails you hiked. We would love to know in the comments below.
