Old 7 Mile Hole

For seasoned hikers and adventurers in Wyoming, a trip to Old 7 Mile Hole is the ultimate test of endurance and a profound reward for your effort. This is not a drive-up campground; it is a backcountry site nestled deep within the dramatic and colorful Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The journey to get here is as significant as the destination itself, a serious and strenuous hike that promises to be a "long fulfilling adventure." This location offers a rare opportunity to experience one of the park’s most iconic landscapes from a perspective that very few people ever get to see: from the bottom of the canyon, far from the crowded viewpoints at the rim. It is a place that truly immerses you in the raw power and beauty of Wyoming's wilderness.

The experience at Old 7 Mile Hole is for those who crave a sense of accomplishment and solitude. The trail descends over 1,000 feet, leading you away from the well-traveled paths and into an "other-worldly geyser basin" and the vibrant, painted walls of the canyon. A challenging hike is part of the package, with steep sections and rugged terrain. As one hiker noted, the last two miles can be "slippery with loose gravel and rock." However, the payoff is immense: a sense of isolation and wonder in a place of "mind blowing geologic history." Once you arrive, you'll be one of the few to have made the descent, surrounded by towering peaks and the powerful Yellowstone River. It's a place where you truly feel "quite small," connecting with nature on a deep and personal level.

This campground is not recommended for novice hikers or those looking for a casual outing. It is a serious commitment that requires proper planning and physical preparation. However, for those who are up to the task, Old 7 Mile Hole offers a camping experience unlike any other. The solitude and the breathtaking views are a testament to the fact that the most incredible places are often the hardest to reach. It’s an adventure that leaves you with stories to tell and a deep appreciation for the wild and untamed heart of Yellowstone.

Old 7 Mile Hole is a backcountry campground located in the Canyon Village area of Yellowstone National Park, at the address Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA. Its accessibility is defined by the Seven Mile Hole Trail. This is a hike-in-only site, and there is no vehicle access. The trailhead is located near the Glacial Boulder Trailhead, a short distance from Inspiration Point and Grandview Point. The hike is approximately 10 miles roundtrip, with the most strenuous portion being the final two miles of descent into the canyon.

The trail itself starts relatively flat, winding through forests and along the rim with views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The challenge comes during the steep, switch-backing descent, where loose scree and rocks require careful footing. The trail also passes through active thermal areas, adding to the unique landscape but also requiring visitors to stay strictly on the trail for safety. The remote nature of this campground means there is no on-site parking at the campsite itself; parking is available at the trailhead, where you will leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip. Backcountry permits are required for all overnight stays at Old 7 Mile Hole.

As a remote backcountry campground, the services at Old 7 Mile Hole are primitive and are designed for self-sufficient campers who practice "Leave No Trace" ethics.

• Campground: Provides a designated, permitted spot for setting up a tent. These sites are typically marked with a post to minimize environmental impact.
• Bear-Safe Food Storage: Backcountry sites in Yellowstone are equipped with bear poles or food storage boxes to secure food and scented items from bears and other wildlife.
• Access to the Yellowstone River: The campsite's location near the Yellowstone River provides a water source, though a proper filter is essential for making the water safe for drinking.

There are no amenities like running water, restrooms, or picnic tables at the individual sites. Campers must carry in and carry out all of their supplies and waste.

The features and highlights of a trip to Old 7 Mile Hole are all about the unique experience that comes with this challenging journey.

• Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Views: This campsite is the only established location where you can camp at the bottom of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The views of the vibrant, colorful walls and the powerful river below are unparalleled.
• Unique Geothermal Features: The trail passes through a bizarre and captivating thermal area with steaming vents and bubbling hot springs, offering a glimpse into Yellowstone's geological activity.
• Challenging and Rewarding Hike: The strenuous 10-mile roundtrip hike is a significant accomplishment and a major part of the adventure. It's a journey that builds a deep appreciation for the destination.
• Solitude: As a backcountry site that requires a difficult hike, Old 7 Mile Hole sees "few to zero other hikers," offering a genuine sense of peace and solitude.
• Fishing Opportunities: The campsite is located near the Yellowstone River, which is a prime location for anglers. A fishing permit is required.

Due to its remote nature, there is no direct contact information for the campground itself. All questions regarding permits, trail conditions, and safety should be directed to the Yellowstone National Park Backcountry Office.

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA

What is worth choosing about Old 7 Mile Hole? For the local Wyoming resident who has already seen the front-country attractions of Yellowstone, this campground represents the next level of adventure. It's an opportunity to truly get away from the crowds and immerse yourself in the wild heart of the park. The experience is challenging, but the payoff is a breathtaking perspective on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone that most visitors never get to see. The solitude, the unique geothermal landscape, and the sense of accomplishment make this more than just a camping trip; it's a transformative experience. For those with the physical fitness and a passion for backcountry exploration, Old 7 Mile Hole is an extraordinary choice that promises incredible memories and a profound connection to the unparalleled beauty of Wyoming. It's a reminder that some of the most beautiful places in our state require a little extra effort, and the reward is always worth the work.

Old 7 Mile Hole

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA