The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Park County

The Mammoth Terraces Trail offers a truly unique hiking experience through Yellowstone's geologically active Mammoth Hot Springs. You'll wander along boardwalks and paved paths, immersing yourself in an otherworldly landscape of travertine formations, often likened to "inside-out caves." The terraces shimmer with vibrant hues of white, orange, and yellow, thanks to the mineral-rich waters, and you'll encounter notable landmarks like the impressive Liberty Cap and the ever-changing Palette Spring, all while steam curls around you.

This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) route, with 463 feet (141 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete, making it an excellent choice for beginners or families. While much of the trail is gentle, be prepared for some steeper sections as you ascend to the top of the Main Terrace. Always stay on the designated paths due to the active geothermal features, and consider an early start to enjoy the unique atmosphere with fewer crowds.

The Mammoth Terraces are renowned for having the world's best display of travertine deposits, a testament to the park's dynamic geothermal activity. The springs and formations are constantly evolving, meaning each visit offers a slightly different perspective on this surreal wonderland. Views from higher points can extend towards the Yellowstone River canyon, and you might even spot wildlife like elk, adding another layer to this memorable natural feature.

The Beaver Ponds Loop Trail offers a rich tapestry of Yellowstone landscapes, guiding you through sagebrush meadows, dense aspen stands, and shaded forests. You'll navigate mostly narrow, bare-ground, and rocky paths, crossing several wooden bridges before reaching the serene Beaver Pond, a true highlight with its picturesque mountain views. The route provides a dynamic journey, starting with a notable ascent and then leveling out to undulating terrain, making it a varied and engaging experience.

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hike, with its 706 feet (215 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete. Starting and ending near Mammoth Hot Springs, it's easily accessible, though arriving early is advisable to secure parking. Consider hiking it clockwise to tackle the steepest climb early, leaving the rest of the trail as a more gradual descent. Late June is an ideal time to visit, as the trail bursts with wildflowers.

Beyond the scenic beauty, the Beaver Ponds Loop Trail is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities; you might spot elk, mule deer, and various waterfowl. While actual beavers are elusive, evidence of their activity is abundant, and you'll enjoy panoramic views of Mammoth Hot Springs and distant peaks like Mount Everts. This trail also offers the unique experience of crossing the Wyoming/Montana border, providing a convenient escape from Yellowstone's more crowded areas.

The Kersey Lake Trail offers a delightful, easy hiking experience through recovering forests and along a picturesque lake in the Beartooth Mountains. You'll traverse varied terrain, from well-trodden paths to potentially muddy sections near the lake's outlet, all while enjoying glimpses of the surrounding peaks. The highlight is undoubtedly Kersey Lake itself, often sparkling and framed by mountains, providing a serene backdrop for your outing. This route is ideal for beginner hiking and those seeking a quick, rewarding nature escape.

Planning your visit is relatively simple, as the trailhead is easily accessible via a paved road directly off the famous Beartooth Highway. This makes it one of the most convenient trails in the area for trailhead access. While the trail is generally pleasant, it's wise to pack insect repellent for mosquitoes and be aware that afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Beartooths. The best time to hike Kersey Lake Trail is typically from late spring through early fall, avoiding early season floods.

Kersey Lake is not just scenic; it's also known for excellent fishing opportunities, with trout often visible in the clear waters. The area is rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for deer, moose, and even bears, remembering to practice proper wildlife safety. The trail's location near Cooke City also means you're close to amenities for hikers, making it a great base for exploring more of the region's natural beauty.

If you're looking for a truly unique hiking experience in Yellowstone, the Mammoth Terraces Trail delivers an easy 1.5-mile (2.5 km) journey through an otherworldly landscape. This route, which takes about 44 minutes to complete with a gentle 257 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along boardwalks and paved paths past glowing white travertine terraces and steaming vents. You'll encounter vibrant, mineral-stained pools and dynamic geological formations like Liberty Cap and Palette Springs, offering a high visual payoff for minimal effort.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient parking available near the trailhead in the Mammoth Hot Springs area. This family-friendly trail is best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the best light and avoid peak crowds. Always remember to stay on the marked boardwalks; the geothermal features are fragile and can be dangerous if you step off the designated path.

What sets this trail apart is its distinctive geology, formed by hot water dissolving limestone and depositing calcium carbonate as travertine, creating the world's best display of these intricate, terraced structures. Unlike other thermal areas in Yellowstone, the Mammoth Terraces are constantly evolving, with features like Opal Pool and Canary Spring showcasing ever-changing colors and formations. It's a fascinating natural wonder that provides a different perspective on the park's geothermal activity.

The Palisade Falls Hiking Trail offers a delightful, accessible journey through a shaded forest before culminating at the impressive 80-foot Palisade Falls. You'll walk on a paved path, winding past spruce, fir, and pine trees, with glimpses of Hyalite Canyon. The highlight is undoubtedly the waterfall, which cascades over a dramatic wall of ancient columnar basalt, a unique geological feature that makes this easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) hike a memorable experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with picnic tables and restrooms available at the trailhead. While the trail is paved and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, be mindful that winter conditions can make the path slick, transforming the falls into a stunning ice formation. This popular route, with its gentle 251 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain and quick 36-minute duration, can get busy, especially during summer months.

What truly sets this trail apart is its exceptional accessibility, making it a fantastic option for nearly everyone, from toddlers to those using crutches. The unique columnar basalt formations at the falls are a striking natural wonder, showcasing the region's volcanic past. Located in the Hyalite Recreation Area, it's a perfect quick outing, and you can easily combine it with other activities like visiting Hyalite Reservoir or exploring more challenging hikes nearby.