With over 1,100 miles of trails, there's a lot of area in Yellowstone to explore!
Before you venture down a park trail, remember to check our online backcountry conditions map and follow our safety tips:
✅ Check
go.nps.gov/YELLbackcountryre… for current trail closures, restrictions, known hazards, and more detailed info.
🐻 Be bear aware. Hike in groups of three or more, be alert, make noise, and carry bear spray (and know how to use it!)
🌦️ Prepare for changing conditions. Rain, wind, sleet, and snow can be deadly if proper precautions are not taken. Always bring rain gear and extra clothes for warmth.
💧 Watch out for water. Many rivers or streams cannot be crossed until July or later. The water can be cold, fast, and more than thigh-deep, making any attempt to cross perilous. Carefully check your itinerary for stream crossings.
❄️ Check the weather forecast. Yellowstone can experience winter-like weather any time of the year. Calm, sunny mornings can abruptly turn into fierce, stormy days.
Photo: Hikers on the Lamar River Trail
ALT Hikers walking on a dirt trail that overlooks a river