Hike Bunsen Peak and Osprey Falls

Linking together one of Yellowstone's most dramatic backcountry waterfalls with a stunning mountain summit makes for a memorable hike that offers an incredible amount of awe for the amount of effort put in. This ~10 mile loop is high on my list of favorite Yellowstone day hikes.

Start at the Bunsen Peak trailhead south of Mammoth Hot Springs just past the "Golden Gate" rock formation. Follow the signs to the summit of Bunsen Peak, Hiking approximately 2 miles gaining 1,278 vertical feet (much of it in switchbacks). There is a small radio station at the summit. Enjoy the expansive views of Gardiner, MT and the northern portion of Yellowstone National Park.

Continue following the trail down the other side of the mountain until you meet up with the old Bunsen Peak road (a doubletrack trail, one of the few trails you are allowed to mountain bike in the park). Take a left and hike for a few minutes (maybe a quarter mile) until you reach a sign for Osprey falls. Go down the steep switchbacks into sheep-eater canyon, losing 800 vertical feet over 1.4 miles. The trail will end at a magnificent 150 foot waterfall, and you will likely have the area to yourself. Be extremely careful if you decide to get close to the base of the falls as the rocks are extremely slippery and the river swift.

Retrace your steps back to Bunsen peak road, take a right and follow the flat 3 mile trail back to the Bunsen peak trailhead.

Yellowstone is grizzly bear country, so it is advised to hike with a group of at least three, make noise and carry bear spray.