Mount Washburn via Dunraven Pass
A scenic alpine ascent from Dunraven Pass to the Mount Washburn fire lookout.
Route overview
Follow the signed summit trail from Dunraven Pass to the lookout shelter and return.
This route climbs from Dunraven Pass through open subalpine terrain to Mount Washburn. It is steeper and more trail-like than the Chittenden approach, with broad views, wildflowers and possible bighorn sheep sightings. Above-treeline lightning and autumn grizzly activity are the principal hazards.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
- Distance
- 9.6 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 3–6 hours
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- Sustained alpine climb; exact total not published on source page
- Best season
- Summer to early autumn in stable weather
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Lightning, no water, altitude, snow, strong wind and bears
Highlights
Dunraven Pass, Mount Washburn summit, fire lookout, alpine ridgeline
Why find a buddy
Partners should share similar uphill pace and conservative storm judgment, especially once the route becomes fully exposed.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.