A snowdrift reached the trailhead sign when we arrived to hike Mount Washburn in Yellowstone National Park. My wife was feeling a little under the weather, and I imagined we might walk a mile or so before turning around. She had other ideas.
We were visiting Yellowstone in June 2018 to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. We hoped to hike Mount Washburn, and the route from Dunraven Pass became one of the most memorable parts of our trip.
We saw sweeping views, crossed stretches of snow, and were surprised by the wind at the summit. What I remember most, though, is sharing the climb with my wife and seeing her determination carry us farther than I had expected that morning.
Starting the Climb from Dunraven Pass
We had identified Mount Washburn as a possible hike before our trip. Standing at the trailhead beside that snowdrift, we were ready to see how the morning unfolded. We carried water, snacks, bear spray, and layers for changing temperatures.
Much of the trail was rock, gravel, or dirt, with stretches of snow along the way. We kept moving uphill, one step at a time, taking in Yellowstone’s incredible scenery as new views appeared around each turn.
From parts of the trail, we could see the summit station. It looked very far away. I still struggled to imagine we would reach it that day, but my wife was determined, and we both enjoyed the hike.
Above the Trees and Toward the Summit
As we climbed past the treeline, the summit began to feel within reach. We were having a wonderful time, and what I had imagined might be a short outing had become a hike we both wanted to complete.
Near the summit, we walked along a gravel stretch beside a snowdrift that I estimated was more than 10 feet tall. The contrast between the exposed trail and the towering snowbank was remarkable, especially in June.
The temperature dropped as we climbed, and the wind picked up considerably. We had packed layers, but we were also looking forward to reaching the summit station. The information we read said it would be open and that restrooms would be available. An unexpected surprise awaited us.
A Windy Surprise at the Summit
We reached the summit to find the station boarded up and closed. We learned that high winds had damaged it the night before. The shelter and restrooms we had counted on were unavailable.
My wife found a spot beside the building that offered some wind protection while I took photographs. Despite the cold and the unexpected closure, we spent some time taking in the views and appreciating that we had made it.
That morning, I had pictured us turning around after a mile or so. Now we were standing together at the summit of Mount Washburn, with Yellowstone spread out below us. It was a memorable moment on our anniversary trip.
Heading Down with a Story to Remember
After spending some time at the summit, we started back down. With the wind and cold, we were eager to get below the treeline and continue toward our rental pickup truck at the trailhead.
Mount Washburn became one of our most memorable hikes. Yellowstone’s scenery was extraordinary, but the experience meant just as much because my wife was determined to reach the summit and make the return trip.
Celebrating our 30th anniversary in Yellowstone gave us many wonderful memories. This shared climb remains one of the highlights.
Mount Washburn Hike at a Glance
- Starting point: Dunraven Pass Trailhead in Yellowstone National Park.
- Route: Out-and-back, returning to the same trailhead.
- Distance: Approximately 6-7 miles round trip. The National Park Service lists 6 miles; AllTrails lists approximately 7 miles.
- Elevation gain: Approximately 1,400 feet, according to AllTrails.
- Difficulty: AllTrails rates the route moderate; the National Park Service describes it as strenuous.
- Time: Allow approximately 3 to 6 hours, the National Park Service’s estimated range. Your pace, stops, and trail conditions will affect how long it takes.
Use the AllTrails route map alongside official National Park Service guidance when planning your hike. These are published route estimates, rather than measurements from our June 2018 visit.
Planning Your Own Mount Washburn Hike
We hiked in June 2018, and conditions may be very different on your visit. Before heading out, check the National Park Service’s Dunraven Pass–Mount Washburn trail information and ask park staff about current snow, weather, trail access, and summit facilities.
Our experience reinforced the value of carrying layers, water, snacks, and bear spray. We encountered snow in June and considerably colder, windier conditions near the summit. The unexpected building closure also reminded us to prepare for facilities being unavailable.
Give yourself time for the climb and the return journey. Enjoy the views along the way, reassess conditions as you go, and keep turning around an option throughout the hike.
Looking for more ideas for your next outing? Explore our hiking guides for preparation tips and firsthand trail stories, or visit our National Parks section for more inspiration.
Planning a longer visit? Explore our Yellowstone National Park guide for firsthand experiences, scenic stops, wildlife watching, and practical trip planning tips.
Adventure Never Gets Old™