We’re excited to share our favorite Yellowstone hikes that we’ve personally tested with our kids (ages 1-10). These trails are scattered throughout the park, so you can easily work them into your Yellowstone itinerary no matter where you’re staying. What makes these hikes special? They’re all doable with kids, though some will definitely get those little legs working harder than others!
Pro tip before we dive in: The best time for most of these hikes is mid-morning when it’s not too hot and the lighting is perfect for photos. Pack lots of water and snacks – trust us, nothing motivates tired kids like a well-timed granola bar! All of these trails will be open mid May to mid October.
1. Brink of the Lower Falls Hike
Length: 0.7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (steep switchbacks)
Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
This short but steep hike takes you right to the edge of the powerful Lower Falls. It’s a workout for families but an unforgettable experience. Our kids love this hike, and it’s become a family tradition. Even our 5-year-old tackled it on their own! Start at Artist Point for a panoramic view, then head over to the Brink for a close-up perspective.
Parent Tips:
- Bring water and plan for rest breaks—it’s a big climb back up!
- Safe viewing thanks to improved fencing at the edge.
- Combine with Artist Point for a complete experience.
- You can do it—encourage your kids and celebrate their accomplishment!
2. Wraith Falls
Length: 0.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30-45 minutes
This is our favorite waterfall hike in Yellowstone! Located in the quieter northeast corner of the park, it’s the perfect trail when you need a break from driving through Lamar Valley. The relative solitude makes it feel more like a wilderness adventure than some of the busier trails.
Parent Tips:
- Great spot for a picnic
- Limited facilities – plan bathroom breaks accordingly
- Watch for wildlife – this area is less crowded but still active
- Perfect length for toddler legs
3. Storm Point Trail
Length: 2.3 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy (mostly flat)
Time: 1-1.5 hours
If your kids love animals, this is your hike! The marmot colony halfway through the trail is always a hit – these cute creatures are everywhere! The flat terrain makes it perfect for all ages, and the Yellowstone Lake views are spectacular. While black bears occasionally visit the area, the real stars are those chubby marmots.
4. Old Faithful to Morning Glory Pool
Length: 2.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy (paved path)
Time: 2-3 hours (including Old Faithful viewing)
This is the ultimate accessible trail in Yellowstone! Start by watching Old Faithful erupt (our kids love doing the countdown). Here’s a fun game we play: have everyone guess how high the eruption will go! In 2023, we had to wait 20 minutes for buffalo to clear the path – but hey, that’s Yellowstone for you!
Parent Tips:
- Fully accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters
- Multiple bathroom stops along the way
- Can turn back at any point
- Morning Glory Pool is worth the full journey
- Bring water bottles – you can refill at several points
5. Forces of the Northern Range Self-Guided Trail
Length: 0.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Very easy
Time: 30-45 minutes
Perfect for curious kids who love to learn! While it might not have the most dramatic features, this trail keeps kids engaged with interactive signs and fun facts. Keep in mind we once spotted a grizzly bear using the boardwalk here – no joke! Keep those little ones close.
Parent Tips:
- Great educational opportunity
- Perfect for younger kids
- Stay alert – wildlife frequently uses this trail
- Bring a camera for sign photos – kids can review facts later
6. Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
Length: 1.75 miles (total boardwalk system)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (stairs)
Time: 1-2 hours
Here’s our secret to success on this one: let the kids be the leaders! When we let our little ones choose which loops to take, they somehow find extra energy to explore “just one more section.” The Minerva Spring is always their favorite – those colors are incredible! Don’t forget to play “spot the elk” from the upper terraces.
Parent Tips:
- Multiple loop options – customize to your family’s energy level
- Start at the bottom and work your way up
- Look for elk in the grassy areas below
- Best photos in morning or late afternoon light
- Bring water – it can get hot on the boardwalks
7. Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook
Length: 1.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some elevation gain)
Time: 45-60 minutes
This is definitely one of those “must-do” hikes in Yellowstone! The overlook gives you the most incredible view of Grand Prismatic Spring – those rainbow colors are even more amazing from above. Here’s a pro tip: save this hike for a sunny day when the colors really pop. We’ve spotted buffalo on this trail multiple times, which always gets the kids excited!
Parent Tips:
- The boardwalk and stairs are stroller-friendly
- Morning light is best for photos
- Pack sunscreen – there’s limited shade
- Keep kids close on the overlook platform
Planning Your Hikes:
- All these trails have parking areas, though they can fill up by mid-day
- Best hiking months: Late May through mid October
- Carry bear spray on ALL hikes (yes, even the short ones!)
- Download offline maps – cell service is spotty
- Check trail conditions at visitor centers – some may be closed seasonally
Remember, the key to happy hiking with kids is flexibility! Don’t rush – take time to examine that fascinating rock or count how many ground squirrels you can spot. These moments often become favorite family memories.
Ready to hit the trails? Which one will you try first? Drop us a comment below to share your family’s Yellowstone hiking adventures!
