When you are hiking in the majestic Yellowstone national park , your choice of footwear can make or break your experience.
Yellowstone is one of the most beautiful places in America, and its beauty is apparent even during the winter months when there aren’t many people around.
However, if you don’t wear the right shoes, you are going to have a hard time with some of the hikes in this area.
While it may be possible to hike in regular sneakers or running shoes for short distances, choosing quality hiking boots or trail running shoes will provide more support and help minimize foot pain .
If you want to have a fun and safe time exploring some of our country’s natural wonders, read my list of best hiking shoes for Yellowstone below.
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5 Best Hiking Shoes For Yellowstone 2021
1. Adidas Mens/Women’s Terrex Swift R2 GTX Backpacking Boot
Overview: This is one of the most comfortable pairs of hiking boots that I’ve ever owned, and it is also one of the best looking ones.
I wore these for a 25-mile backpacking trip in the Big Horn mountain range in Wyoming last year My feet were never sore or tired at all after walking over tough terrain for several hours during the day.
They feature a built-in GoreTex waterproof lining and are designed with optimal support, stability, and traction.
The midsole features adaptable trail rocker geometry so you can move easily on uneven ground while providing great arch support and stability. The top is made with mesh fabric so your feet will never get too hot or sweaty while on the trail.
2. Merrell Men’s Moab Adventure Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Overview: This shoe is one of the most affordable quality hiking shoes that you can find for under $150. You’ll appreciate the increased foot support, arch support, and traction when you try these out on difficult trails at Yellowstone.
They’re waterproof and have good support in case you happen to hike near some waterfalls (like Rainbow falls, pictured below). I also recommend this model for short-distance running activities.
3. Asolo Men’s Fugitive GTX Hiking Boot
Overview: These shoes are very well constructed and provide great stability for hiking in rough terrain. The Gore-Tex linings on the inside ensure that your feet will stay dry even when you walk near treacherous waterfalls.
This pair features excellent ankle support, which is helpful if you plan on doing any rock climbing or bouldering while at Yellowstone – or any other time of year.
They’re also waterproof across the top of your foot so if you encounter a stream along the way, these shoes will keep most of the water out.
4. Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Boot
Overview: These rugged hiking boots are high quality and affordable despite being made by one of the most acclaimed outdoor boot manufacturers around.
I have personally worn this model several times for long backpacking trips and have never had a problem with them – they give your feet maximum support while ensuring you won’t feel too hot or uncomfortable.
The rubber soles on the bottom offer excellent traction, which is great for all types of trails that you may encounter in Yellowstone.
5. Keen Men’s Terra Low Mid Waterproof
Overview: Keen has been making quality hiking boots for years now, and this model is no exception. They are well made and very comfortable to wear.
The dual-density midsole provides good arch support so it feels like someone massaging your feet even after hiking for several hours (although some people say these can rub their heels just a bit).
These shoes are waterproof throughout, so you won’t have to worry about taking them off when encountering a small creek on the trail. They’re also constructed with Keen’s patented Vibram soles, which provide excellent traction in all types of terrain.
Do I need hiking shoes for Yellowstone?
Some of the trails in Yellowstone National Park are extremely rocky and rough. And then there’s the mud season, which is not so much a season as it is 6-9 months out of the year. You’re going to want some good boots for hiking in Yellowstone.
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A pair of tennis shoes certainly won’t cut it here!
The majority of our suggested day hikes have you blazing your own trail on well-maintained trails.
There are, however, some hikes that take you down into the gravelly rivers or over across lava flows with loose rocks scattered about – you’ll definitely want sturdy hiking shoes for these routes.
Is Yellowstone good for hiking?
There are so many people that enjoy hiking all year round. We have guides and maps to help us get to that destination we want to see. Yellowstone is one of the most popular places to go for people who love hiking but don’t know much about what kind of trails they can take.
I will answer some questions you may be asking yourself if you were thinking about taking a trip there soon.
Where can I hike in Yellowstone?
There are lots of trails you can hike in Yellowstone! The more popular trails include Hellroaring Trail, Tower Falls Trail, and Mount Washburn Trail.
What season do these hikes offer the best views of nature?
These three hikes are my favorite during the summer months because of the beautiful wildflowers.
What time of day is best for seeing wildlife at Yellowstone?
You can see wildlife anytime you are hiking in Yellowstone, but during my last visit I saw a mother moose with her young calf at 10:30 a.m., they had no fear of us at all!
How far away from the geysers are these trails?
There is not a specific trail that takes you right up next to the geysers, but there is a section on Firehole Lake Drive where you can pull over near some geysers and get out to see them.
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How long does it take to hike in Yellowstone?
It depends on which trail you are taking because many of them have different lengths, elevation changes, scenery, etc. but if you want an idea that is not too short or too long for a beginner I recommend taking one of these three hikes:
- Mount Washburn Trail (1-2 days)
- Fairy Falls Loop (2-3 hours)
- Tower Falls Trail (4 hours).
How much does it cost to hike in Yellowstone?
There is no admission fee because the land is owned by The United States Government.
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Are there restrooms along trails?
There are plenty of public bathrooms located near the most popular destinations and parking lots throughout the park. It is advised you carry an empty water bottle with you to refill at restroom fountains.
How dangerous is hiking in Yellowstone?
Have you ever been hiking in Yellowstone or any national park? Are you into outdoor activities and want to experience a wildlife encounter first-hand? Here are some things to know before setting foot on the trail.
According to Yellowstone National Park’s 2018 Reportable Incident Statistics, the park’s most dangerous activity is walking. Yes, walking – not fishing, boating.
It was even more dangerous than swimming! Among incidents that involved people being injured in accidents while hiking trails, there were seven serious injuries and one death from June 2016 to June 2017. The fatality involved a woman falling from the Firehole River trail near Madison Junction.
Conclusion
It’s clear to see that hiking shoes are an important thing to pack for Yellowstone National Park. Local guides recommend that all hikers bring one or two pairs of footwear to avoid blisters.
Hiking shoes should be sturdy and comfortable, as they need to protect the feet from rocks and prickly plants on the trail.