Yellowstone - Avalanche Peak Hike

Introduction:

What? :

For people seeking a true alpine challenge and some of the park's most stunning panoramic vistas, the Avalanche Peak Trail is a must-do destination. This is not an extra long hike, but its relentless steepness and high elevation make it a test of stamina rewarded with unforgettable breathtaking views.

The summit of Avalanche Peak sits at approximately 10,568 feet and a on-way 2.5 miles trail with 2,200 ft of elevation leads to its top ridgeline.

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Where? :

Avalanche Peak is located in the eastern section of Yellowstone National Park, near the East Entrance Road (US-14/16/20).

The Avalanche Peak Trailhead is about 8 miles west of the park's East Entrance or about 19 miles east of Fishing Bridge Junction. Look for a pullout parking area just east of Eleanor Lake.

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When? :

The park is open year round, but the journey to get here and the surrounding scenery change dramatically between summer and winter.

For most people, late May to September is the ideal time to visit here.

My personal recommendations are to visit Yellowstone National Park during the month of September.

The park is not as crowded as the peak tourist season of the summer months, the weather is ideal for hiking, it is not so hot or cold, all the roads are still open and the animals are in their active months.

Another option is during June when the snow is mainly cleared, all is green and the animals are getting out and active after the long winter.

Summer:

This is the peak Season (Mid-June to Mid-September)

All park roads are open to personal vehicles, making it easy to drive right to any destination within the park.

It is very crowded here during the summer months. Traffic jams, slow drive and challenges with finding parking spots.

Days are usually warm (70-80f), but nights can still be cool. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

All hotels, lodges and campgrounds are open, high price and reservation need many months in advance.

Fall:

Fall season is short (Mid-September to end October) offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than summer.

All roads are still open (most interior roads close to vehicles by early November), usually there is no heavy snow but you should expect a mix of sunny and rainy days and cold temperatures.

Daytime highs can range from the 40-70F, with nights dropping below freezing.

Winter:

Winter (Mid-December to Mid-March) transforms the park into a quiet, magical, snow-covered land.

The geyser's steam plumes are enormous.

Crowds are minimal.

Most interior park roads are closed to regular cars. You must travel into the park by a guided snowcoach or on a permitted snowmobile tour.

If you plan to visit Yellowstone in the winter, you will need to book a tour from one of the gateway towns like West Yellowstone or Mammoth Hot Springs (which is accessible by private vehicle year-round via the North Entrance).

The weather is cold with daytime temperatures between 0-20f.

You need proper, layered, waterproof and warm winter clothing is essential.

Spring:

Spring is a very short season in Yellowstone, practically in May and early June.

Some roads start to get open during end of April

Crowds are minimal, especially in April and May, making for a quiet visit.

Weather is unpredictable, with the potential for warm, pleasant days mixed with snow, rain, and freezing temperatures.

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Tips and inputs:

Due note 1:

The mountain’s accessibility and the amazing view from its peak makes it a relatively popular day hike in this far area of the park.

Due to the strenuous nature and high elevation this hike is not for everyone.

Due note 2:

Nearby Services is located at Fishing Bridge.

You can find there extensive services, including a Visitor Center, lodging, a campground, restaurants, general stores, and a gas station.

Due note 4:

Dress in Layers: Yellowstone's weather can change quickly even during the summer months. Be prepared for sun, rain, wind, and cold temperatures.

Some sections of the trail are exposed to the sun so bring a hat, use sunscreen and use sunglasses.

It is often significantly colder and windier at the top than at the trailhead, even in mid-summer. Bring a warm jacket, bini, and gloves.

Due note 5:

Some sections of the trail, near the high elevations, are exposed to the sun so bring a hat, sunscreen and use sunglasses.

An early start helps you beat the midday sun and, more importantly, afternoon thunderstorms, which are common and make being above the tree line dangerous.

Due note 6:

This is a long hike so bring at least 2-3 liters of water with you.

Bring snacks and light food to the hike.

Due note 7:

The hike is best visited in the summer months, from late June/July through August, as snow can linger on the upper reaches well into the summer.

Due note 8:

Avalanche Peak is in an active grizzly country.

Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and hike in groups while making noise (calling out "Hey Bear!" occasionally) to alert wildlife to your presence.

Remember to maintain a safe and legal distance from all wildlife: 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other animals, including the bighorn sheep.

The trail is often closed in September and October due to high grizzly bear activity as they feed on whitebark pine nuts. Check in one of the park visitor centers if the trail is open.

Due note 9:

I recommend starting early: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Yellowstone's mountains during the summer, bringing a high lightning risk above the tree line. Aim to be below the tree line well before noon.

My thoughts:

This was not a long hike but an extremely challenging climb to the ridgeline. Once you reach the mountain peak and see the panoramic view you forget the challenge.

The Hike:

From the trailhead the hike begins immediately with a steep ascent through a dense forest, providing shade. The trail section here is an extremely steep climb, straight up the mountain slope. At one point you will cross the dry creek and keep hiking up.

As you gain elevation, the forest transitions to whitebark pine, an important food source for grizzly bears.

You'll also see the ghostly remains of trees killed by the pine beetle.

After about 1.3 miles and 1,200 ft of elevation gain you will reach an open valley below the surrounding ridgelines towering above you.

Above the tree line, the views open up dramatically. The trail navigates to the left crossing rocky talus and scree slopes. From here you will start the last ascend section to reach the fully exposed ridge.

You will reach the narrow ridgeline and the mountain summit at 10,568-foot.

The payoff for the challenging climb is the incredible 360-degree view of all the spectacular Absaroka Mountain Range to the east. To the west you can see Yellowstone Lake, and on a clear day, you can even spot the Grand Teton mountains to the south.