Observation Point Trail

This is the cheat code for one of Yellowstone's best views. Starting from the Old Faithful boardwalk, you cross the Firehole River and immediately hit a series of switchbacks that climb through lodgepole pine forest. The trail is short but steep enough to get your heart rate up — think of it as a quick stairmaster session with a world-class reward. At the top, the Upper Geyser Basin spreads out below you like a steaming, otherworldly map. You can watch Old Faithful erupt from above while most visitors are crammed shoulder-to-shoulder at the benches below. On the return, a spur trail passes Solitary Geyser, which pulses every few minutes in a satisfying little show. This is the perfect trail for anyone who wants a big payoff without committing to a full day on the trail.