Last updated: February 6, 2024
Thing to Do
Elephant Back Mountain Trail
![A hiker looks down from a vantage point across a forest to a large lake.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/045B0F91-CFB0-ED48-3173FD08B690F12E.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
NPS / Addy Falgoust
This trail climbs 800 feet (244 m) in 1-½ miles (2.4 km) through the dense lodgepole forest. After 0.8 of a mile, the trail splits into a loop. The left fork is the shortest route to the top, though both join again at the overlook. The overlook provides a sweeping panoramic view of Yellowstone Lake and surrounding area.
Safety notes: Always be aware of your surroundings and look for signs of grizzly bears.
Trailheads: Pullout 1 mile (1.5 km) south of Fishing Bridge Junction.
More on Day Hikes in Yellowstone
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Prepare yourself to safely enjoy wildlife, hydrothermal areas, and other features of Yellowstone National Park.
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Bear Spray
Read about this highly effective bear deterrent.
![Hikers standing on the rocky top of Avalanche Peak with Yellowstone Lake in the background.](/common/uploads/grid_builder/thingstodo/crop16_9/0038ED04-1DD8-B71B-0B466B2982A30A32.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Lace up your boots and explore some of the over 1,000 miles of trails in Yellowstone National Park.
![Hikers rest and look out at Yellowstone Lake from atop a mountaintop.](/common/uploads/grid_builder/thingstodo/crop16_9/F64BCF6D-1DD8-B71B-0B9DF88F14D43237.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Explore trails that traverse a variety of Yellowstone ecosystems and provide stunning views of Yellowstone Lake.