Hikes in Devils Tower National Monument

When explorers first discovered Mud Volcano in the 19th century, the rumbling eruptions could be heard half a mile away. Mud Volcano shook the ground and flung mud into the treetops. The volcano later blew itself apart and is not as active for today's visitors to Yellowstone National Park. Fortunately, Mud the Volcano Area still has several interesting hydrothermal features to witness. ...Read more.

When you drive by an overlook in Yellowstone National Park, it pays to stop. A short walk from a turnout on Grand Loop Road just north of Tower Fall brings travelers to Calcite Springs Overlook, perched on a bluff above the narrowest section of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The mesmerizing northward view puts a rugged section of the Yellowstone River on display, accented by bleached cliffs and steam venting hydrothermal springs. ...Read more.

Tower Fall drops 132 feet down Tower Creek just before the creek converges with the Yellowstone River. A hellish collection of towering volcanic spires surrounding the creek gives Tower Fall its name. There is an excellent view of Tower Fall from an easy-to-reach roadside overlook. A 1-mile round trip hike drops down to the Yellowstone River alongside Tower Creek and previously connected to a viewing platform at the base of the falls. ...Read more.

There are several hydrothermal areas in Yellowstone National Park. West Thumb Geyser Basin stands out because it is on the edge of, and partially submerged by, Yellowstone Lake, which creates a dramatic backdrop for the dynamic geysers, pools, and springs. A dirt trail and wooden boardwalk loops through the geyser basin, offering a 2/3 of a mile long wheelchair-friendly stroll. ...Read more.

Monument Geyser Basin is an active hydrothermal area that most visitors to Yellowstone National Park won't get to see. That's because most visitors won't pursue the 2.8-mile round trip hike required to reach the basin. There is 700 feet of elevation gain standing in the way, as the trail climbs a pine-covered mountainside with views of Mount Holmes and a snaking section of the Gibbon River. ...Read more.