Mountains in Yellowstone National Park

When people think of Yellowstone National Park, they often picture geysers, hot springs, and roaming bison. But look up, and you’ll discover another breathtaking side of the park: its majestic mountains. Towering above the valleys, rivers, and geothermal features, Yellowstone’s mountains are not just scenic backdrops—they’re home to diverse wildlife, rare plants, and incredible hiking adventures.

Yellowstone’s mountains are part of the Rocky Mountains, but they have a unique geological story. Shaped by volcanic eruptions, tectonic uplift, and glacial carving, these ranges tell a tale millions of years in the making. The park’s mountains form several distinct ranges, each with its own character, highest peaks, and outdoor opportunities.

Yellowstone’s mountain ranges define the park’s geography and influence its climate, ecosystems, and drainage systems. These mountains are not the towering granite peaks seen in some other parts of the Rocky Mountains, but they are geologically complex and deeply connected to the volcanic and tectonic history of the Yellowstone region. 

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who loves stunning landscapes, the mountains of Yellowstone invite exploration. Let’s climb into the heart of Yellowstone’s high country and discover what makes these peaks so special.

Quick Reference: Major Mountain Ranges of Yellowstone National Park

Mountain Range / Peak	Location & Extent	Highest Peak & Elevation	Geological Nature	Key Significance
Absaroka Range	Eastern boundary of Yellowstone; Montana–Wyoming border; ~150 miles long	Francs Peak – 13,153 ft (4,009 m)	Volcanic mountain range	Major wildlife habitat; eastern boundary of the park; part of multiple wilderness areas
Gallatin Range	Northwestern Yellowstone; southwestern Montana into Wyoming; ~75 miles long	Electric Peak – 10,969 ft (3,343 m)	Metamorphic and sedimentary rocks	Forms park’s northwest boundary; influences climate and drainage
Teton Range	South of Yellowstone; extends slightly into park	Grand Teton – 13,775 ft (4,199 m)	Fault-block granite mountains	One of the youngest mountain ranges; iconic rugged peaks
Washburn Mountain Range	Northeastern Yellowstone; east of Lamar Valley	Mount Washburn – 10,243 ft (3,121 m)	Volcanic origin	Central park landmark; wildlife viewing and panoramic views
Beartooth Mountains	Northeastern edge of Yellowstone; Montana–Wyoming border	Granite Peak – 12,799 ft (3,901 m)	Precambrian granite	Among the highest and oldest rocks in the Rockies
First Peoples Mountain (Mount Doane)	Northeastern Yellowstone; near Silver Gate	10,551 ft (3,216 m)	Volcanic Absaroka subrange	Renamed in 2022 to honor Indigenous peoples

1. Absaroka Range

The Absaroka Range dominates much of the eastern boundary of Yellowstone and is one of the park’s most defining mountain systems. It stretches approximately 150 miles (240 km) across the Montana–Wyoming border. At its widest point, it extends 75 miles (120 km). The range forms the eastern boundary of Yellowstone National Park along Paradise Valley and marks the western edge of the Bighorn Basin. 

The tallest peak in the Absaroka Range is Francs Peak, which reaches an elevation of 13,153 feet (4,009 meters). The range features 46 other peaks over 12,000 feet (3,700 meters), adding to its dramatic landscape. The Absaroka Range is primarily drained by the Yellowstone River and its tributaries, including the Bighorn River.

The range provides habitat for large mammals such as grizzly bears, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep, while alpine meadows bloom with colorful wildflowers in summer. Historically, the Absaroka Range was significant for Indigenous peoples who used its passes and valleys for hunting and travel.

Absaroka Range is a significant portion of the range is within protected areas such as Yellowstone National Park, the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, North Absaroka Wilderness, Teton Wilderness, and Washakie Wilderness. It spans several national forests, including the Bridger-Teton, Custer, Gallatin, and Shoshone National Forests.

Absaroka Range in Yellowstone National Park

2. Gallatin Range

The Gallatin Range is a prominent mountain range located in southwestern Montana and extending into northwestern Wyoming. It is part of the Rocky Mountains and runs parallel to the western side of Yellowstone National Park. The range is named after Albert Gallatin, the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1814.

The Gallatin Range stretches approximately 60 miles (97 km) from north to south and includes several notable peaks and ridges. The range is characterized by rugged terrain, steep slopes, and alpine meadows. It features more than 10 peaks exceeding 10,000 feet (3,000 meters), with Electric Peak being the highest at 10,969 feet (3,343 meters). The range stretches 75 miles (121 km) from north to south and averages about 20 miles (32 km) in width.

The southern end of the range extends into the northwestern section of Yellowstone National Park, while the majority of the range lies within Gallatin National Forest. The Yellowstone River runs along the eastern flank of the range, providing important water resources for the area. To the west, the Madison Range parallels the Gallatins, and Bozeman Pass separates the Gallatins from the Bridger Mountains to the north.

Gallatin Range in Yellowstone National Park

3. Teton Range (Teton Mountains)

The Teton Range is a dramatic and iconic mountain range located in northwestern Wyoming, extending into southeastern Idaho and eastern Montana. It is part of the Rocky Mountains and is renowned for its sharp, jagged peaks and striking scenery. Although the majority of the Teton Range is outside the boundaries of Yellowstone National Park, the northwest corner of the park extends into the Teton Range. The majority of the Teton Range is within Grand Teton National Park.

The highest peak in the Teton Range is the Grand Teton, which reaches 13,775 feet (4,199 meters). It is the most famous and recognizable peak in the range and is a popular destination for climbers and hikers. The Teton Range extends approximately 40 miles (64 km) from north to south. The range features steep, rugged peaks with dramatic granite faces, which rise abruptly from the surrounding plains and foothills. The range is known for its distinctively rugged terrain and deep, glacially-carved valleys.

The Teton Range is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers numerous climbing routes, including the challenging ascent of the Grand Teton, as well as extensive hiking trails, backcountry skiing, and scenic drives.

Teton Range in Yellowstone National Park

4. Washburn Mountain Range

The Washburn Mountain Range is a notable mountain range located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. It is part of the Rocky Mountains and contributes to the diverse landscape of the park.

The Washburn Range extends approximately 15 miles (24 km) north-south and is situated to the east of the Lamar Valley. It forms a natural barrier between the Lamar Valley and the upper Yellowstone River Valley. The highest peak in the Washburn Range is Washburn Mountain, which stands at 10,243 feet (3,121 meters). It is a prominent feature in the range and provides expansive views of the surrounding areas.

The summit provides sweeping views across much of Yellowstone and is a prime location for spotting wildlife such as bighorn sheep. Geologically, the Washburn Range was formed from volcanic activity associated with the Yellowstone hotspot. Its slopes are covered with lodgepole pine forests, which were heavily affected by the fires of 1988 but have since rebounded, demonstrating the resilience of Yellowstone’s landscapes.

Washburn Mountain Range

5. Beartooth Mountains

While the Beartooth Mountains are primarily outside the park's boundary, they are still a significant geographical feature in the northeastern part of Yellowstone. Bordering the northeastern corner of Yellowstone, The Beartooth Mountains are a prominent and rugged mountain range located in the northern Rocky Mountains, straddling the border between Montana and Wyoming. They are part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and are known for their dramatic scenery and high elevations.

The Beartooth Mountains extend approximately 100 miles (160 km) north-south and about 30 miles (48 km) east-west. The range is characterized by its rugged terrain, including sharp peaks, deep valleys, and numerous glacial cirques. The highest peak in the Beartooth Mountains is Granite Peak, which reaches an elevation of 12,799 feet (3,901 meters). It is a challenging climb and a significant landmark in the range.

The Beartooth Mountains are primarily composed of Precambrian granite, giving the range its distinctive rugged appearance. The area features alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and a network of cirques and ridges.

U.S. Highway 212, also known as the Beartooth Highway, traverses the Beartooth Mountains. This scenic route is renowned for its breathtaking views and high elevation, crossing Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet (3,337 meters). The highway is usually open from late June to mid-September due to snow.

The Beartooth Mountains are part of several protected areas, including the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and backcountry exploration.

Beartooth Mountains

6. First Peoples Mountain (Mount Doane)

First Peoples Mountain (formerly Mount Doane) is a prominent peak located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park, near the northeastern entrance and the town of Silver Gate, Montana. The mountain is part of the Absaroka Range, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. Mount Doane has an elevation of approximately 10,551 feet (3,216 meters) above sea level, making it one of the higher peaks in Yellowstone National Park.

Mount Doane is named after Lieutenant Gustavus C. Doane, who was a member of the 2nd U.S. Cavalry and participated in the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition of 1870, one of the earliest government-sponsored expeditions to explore the Yellowstone region. 

Mount Doane, now officially renamed First Peoples Mountain in 2022, reflects a significant change in recognition and respect for Native American history. The decision to rename the peak was influenced by concerns over Gustavus Doane’s historical actions, specifically his involvement in the Marias Massacre of 1870. The new name, First Peoples Mountain, honors the indigenous peoples of the region and their historical and cultural significance.

First Peoples Mountain (Mount Doane)