Hike to Bumpass Hell

Bumpass Hell Trail Start: Bumpass Hell parking area, 7 miles from the Southwest Entrance Round-trip Distance: 3 miles Round-trip Time: 2 hours Terrain: Gradual climb first mile then 200-foot descent into basin Elevation: 8,200 - 8,400 feet Trail Surface: Packed gravel Width: 48" to basin overlook; trails into basin are narrow Season: Approximately late July through October 360-degree photos of the basin Bumpass Hell Trail provides access to the largest hydrothermal area in the park. The trail is open in the late summer and fall only. Learn more about the winter/spring closure. Parking for this popular trail is limited and is often full mid-morning to early afternoon, especially on weekends. The three-mile, round-trip hike is easy to moderate in difficulty and is popular with hikers of all ages. Vault toilets are available only at the trailhead, there are no restrooms on the trail or in the basin. Pets are not permitted on any park trails. How to Hike This Trail Safely Hiking the Bumpass Hell Trail involves risk. Learn more about general hiking safely in this high-elevation and remote park. Special considerations for this hydrothermal area include: Shade is limited on this trail. Hikers are encouraged to wear or bring a hat and carry water. Winter conditions can persist through the summer months, especially in the forested sections of the trail. Wear proper footwear (good tread, ankle support, closed toe) and consider using trekking poles to help maintain balance. Knee and ankle injuries are the most common visitor injury in the park. Stay on established trails and boardwalks in/around the basin. Ground in hydrothermal areas can look solid but may actually be a thin crust hiding pools of acidic boiling water or mud. Visitors have been severely injured by traveling off-trail in these areas. Water and mud in hydrothermal areas is acidic. Do not put water or mud from park hydrothermal areas on your skin. Even water that is cool to the touch is acidic and can irritate or burn your skin with prolonged exposure. Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take often, and do not exceed your abilities.