Sepulcher Mountain

Sepulcher Mountain is a summit in Yellowstone National Park that rises to 9,646 feet, marked by dark volcanic rock cliffs. Its northern slopes drop steeply, covered by forests interspersed with open meadows.

The mountain was named in 1871 by Captain John W. Barlow, who saw a resemblance to a crypt in its shape from a distance. The name reflects the visual impression Barlow formed when viewing it from nearby Gardiner, Montana.

The mountain serves as a landmark for visitors exploring Yellowstone's varied terrain. From this vantage point, hikers can observe the park's diverse landscapes, from geyser basins to forested slopes.

The summit is reached via a trail starting from Mammoth Hot Springs, covering roughly 19 kilometers round trip. Plan for five to eight hours of hiking depending on your fitness level and pace.

The false summit contains unusual rock formations that resemble tombstones against the sky when viewed from a distance. These strange natural structures form through varying erosion patterns in the stone and create an unexpected visual feature.

Location: Wyoming

GPS coordinates: 44.99021,-110.76688

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:23