The best walks and hikes around Gardiner

Yes, the area offers several great options for families. The Wraith Falls Trail is a popular choice; it's a short, relatively flat one-mile round trip leading to a lovely waterfall. Another excellent option is the Beaver Ponds Loop Trail near Mammoth Hot Springs, a five-mile loop with gentle hills that offers fantastic opportunities for spotting wildlife.

Besides the family-friendly Wraith Falls, more adventurous hikers can explore trails leading to other cascades in the region. While many are unnamed, exploring the creeks and drainages in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness can reveal beautiful, secluded waterfalls, especially during the spring snowmelt.

It's important to know the regulations, as they differ inside and outside the park. Dogs are not permitted on any hiking trails within Yellowstone National Park. However, they are generally allowed on-leash in the surrounding Gallatin National Forest and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Always check the specific trailhead for current rules before you start your hike.

Gardiner's location at the edge of Yellowstone's Northern Range makes it a prime spot for wildlife. The Lamar River Trail is famous for its wide-open valleys, offering a high probability of seeing bison and pronghorn. For a chance to see bighorn sheep, consider trails in the Yankee Jim Canyon area. Remember to always maintain a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife.

The weather in the mountains can change rapidly. It's essential to dress in layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer like a fleece, and always carry a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Sturdy hiking boots with good traction are a must. Also, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense at altitude.

Definitely. For a moderate loop with great wildlife potential, the 5-mile Beaver Ponds Loop near Mammoth is a community favorite. If you're looking for a more challenging day with rewarding views, consider the Hawkwatch loop from Kerhonkson, which offers a different perspective on the region's varied terrain.

Yes, if you plan to camp overnight in the backcountry of Yellowstone National Park, a permit is required. Permits can be obtained from Park Service ranger stations or visitor centers. For day hiking, no special permits are needed, but you must pay the park entrance fee to access trails within Yellowstone.

September is an excellent month for hiking around Gardiner. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is typically pleasant with cooler temperatures, and fall colors begin to appear in the aspen groves. It's also the time of the elk rut, offering a unique wildlife experience. However, be prepared for colder mornings and the possibility of an early-season snowfall.

For a strenuous hike with panoramic views, the trail to the summit of Bunsen Peak is a rewarding challenge. Another difficult but spectacular option is the Millbrook Mountain via Trapps, Coxing, & Millbrook Ridge Trail loop — Mohonk Preserve, which involves steep sections and rocky terrain leading to expansive vistas over the landscape.

Yankee Jim Canyon offers dramatic scenery right along the Yellowstone River. The Yankee Jim Interpretive Trail provides excellent viewpoints of the river and the surrounding Absaroka Mountains. For a higher perspective, several unofficial trails climb the canyon walls, but these should only be attempted by experienced hikers with good route-finding skills.

There are over 60 curated hiking routes around Gardiner available on komoot, ranging from easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain ascents. This number doesn't include the countless miles of trails within Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding national forests, offering a lifetime of exploration.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, the vast, open landscapes of the Northern Range, and the variety of trails that cater to all skill levels, from accessible boardwalks to rugged backcountry paths.