200metres from the main trail and well worth a rest and photo op. For more information, please visit. We ended up cutting back over the hill to catch the section of Clear Lake trail back to the parking lot. 9 Views Last Month 1,244 Since Jul 19, 2016 Intermediate. The 2 km climb above Wapiti Lake has an elevation change of 1000 metres. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. I hiked it alone (dumb) & was reminded why NOT to hike alone in Yellowstone country. I really enjoyed this trail, as it offers a variety of landscapes. Hike the Wapiti Lake Trail to Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Loop. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Stay 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals. YSC cookie is set by Youtube and is used to track the views of embedded videos on Youtube pages. Other than the shelter at Wapiti Lake, there are no facilities. We started from the Wapiti Lake trailhead because the regular beginnings of the Clear Lake Loop were closed for maintenance and construction. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your This 2.6-mile (4.2-km) there-and-back trail travels from the majestic Artist Point overlook to the Point Sublime Overlook along the southern rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Beyond there you enter an area thats desolate & burned with small geyser & bubbling mud pits. Went in late August and got to the trailhead by 7am. Follow this road to kilometre 29 and turn right onto the 2500 road (at approximately 25 km) a road that leads to an old well site. Permit required for fishing, boating, riding, and overnight camping. Soon youll reach Lily Pad Lake junction. Proof of negative Coggins test within last 12 months required. If you dont like your friends or family then you should take them on this trail. Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) inspection required for all watercraft including boats, float tubes, and stand up paddle boards. Keep left at the first junction towards Clear Lake. A viewpoint of Wapiti Falls can be accessed via a short 200 metre trail at km 7. instead of taking the road, loop around through uncle tom for good views. More information at the Center Backcountry Office: (307) 344-2160. Truly diverse landscape and SO MUCH FUN! We started at South Rim, which starts at the bridge near Wapiti Trailhead parking lot, and saw no one until Artist's Point. Turn right on South Rim Dr. Just after crossing Chittenden Bridge turn right and park in the large parking lot. Brink of the Lower Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. trip reports for this trail. Well worth going to Lily Pad Lake and clear lake. Quite muddy at points but not an issue with hiking shoes. Beyond this point, the crowds are smaller as the trail continues at the Ribbon Lake trailhead. amazing scenery. A 10.2-mile (16.4-km) there-and-back trail that crosses part of the Hayden Valley and requires fording Sour Creek. Wapiti Lake Trail Hard 3.1 (10) Yellowstone National Park Photos (127) Directions Print/PDF map Length 34.0 miElevation gain 3,106 ftRoute type Out & back Get to know this 34.0-mile out-and-back trail near West Yellowstone, Montana. Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) inspection required for all watercraft including boats, float tubes, and stand up paddle boards. Could hear Elk bugling but did not sure them. Through the 1940's and 50's there were just a few homesteaders and trappers here. The first mile of the Wapiti Lake trail, crossing the north east end of Hayden Valley. At the trailhead, there is a vault toilet. At Wapiti Lake visitors have the choice of tenting or using the backcountry cabin. The Wapiti Onion Trail crosses through the park. Could just do the clear lake trail from uncle toms but then you would miss a nice view of Hayden valley - really was amazing to see how vast it is! 10/10 recommend.just make sure to not miss any turns! Last Updated: The next two camping areas are located overlooking Wapiti Lake. Really does cover everything. Prior to reaching the park boundary, there is a rustic camping area at km 11.5 along the Wapiti River and another at km 12.8 on the shores of Lost Moraine Lake. which can take you to Lake Estes and downtown in one direction or the National Park via the Homer Rouse Trail in the other. After 7 kms. Mr. Rebec, along with our tents, at the Moss Creek backcountry campsite, 4M2. To get to the North Gate Trailhead on Lake Hollywood Drive: From the 101 Freeway exit on Barham Boulevard and drive north for 1/3 of a mile. A 4-mile (6.4-km) there-and-back trail that travels from the junction with the Wapiti Lake Trail out to Ribbon Lake, a couple of backcountry campsites, and Surface Creek, which plunges down into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River as the Silver Cord Cascades. Ground near thermal areas is fragile and the water can be scalding hot and acidic. The two kilometre climb above Wapiti Lake has an elevation change of 1,000 metres. You'll need to leave pups at home dogs aren't allowed on this trail. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1 or contact the nearest ranger station. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 44 min to complete. If time and distance permits, Id recommend following the rim of the river to avoid the section of highway! My family lamented that we didn't make the trek to Lamar Valley where the wildlife is plentiful. Park waters are swift and cold. Wapiti Lake Trailhead is located just south of Upper Falls of the Yellowstone. The best times to visit this trail are July through September. Keep an eye out for wildlife. More overlooks and some walking through the trees takes you to the parking lot of the famous Artist Point. Make sure to stay on the designated trail. The cabin is on a first-come, first-served basis. adventures and follow local regulations. If you want to camp near by there is a forest service campsite 1 km past the 29km point. Horses are permitted on the Wapiti Onion Trail. Visitors to Wapiti Lake Park can park vehicles at the trailhead parking area which is accessed via the Ojay Main Road. Follow LEAVE NO TRACE travel and camping techniques. Swimming in park rivers is not recommended. DAY 1 It was pouring rain as we left Prince George on August 6th, but was pretty smooth sailing to cover the 400 km to Tumbler Ridge. Saw some mule deer also. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Felt soles prohibited. Enjoy the backcountry and help keep it clean for others to enjoy. We hiked up from wapiti and then had a person who was not hiking take us back to the cars from artists point - might have been more downhill going the other way but not sure on that. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Looped back to Wapiti trailhead. Although more the size of a pond, Clear Lake is a scenic destination and offers a nice photo opportunity. You made the day for this family.. Wait several minutes after the bear leaves before getting up and leaving the area. Wapiti Lake Trail Information. Numerous large rock formations create tall mini-islands with an old bridge as a backdrop. Hike in groups of 3 or more; keep your group together. East of the overlook where you can embark on the following trails: There is a large parking lot here, though it is often busy during the peak of the summer season. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Turn right on South Rim Dr. Just after crossing Chittenden Bridge turn right and park in the large parking lot.The Hike: The hike . This developed site also has tent pads, a pit toilet, a fire ring and food cache. If you use the shelter, please keep it clean, remove your litter, and sign the guest book. Easy hike thru a meadow, then thermal area to the canyon. Pair it with South Rim trail: start at the South Rim trailhead, take it to Artist's Point, then loop around using Wapiti Lake back to the South Rim trailhead. A good portion of this trail is in the open however there are a few sections that are within the forest. Note: Please be careful while hiking on the South Rim Trail. Please explore responsibly! If you enjoy torture then this trail might be for you. Bury human waste and toilet tissue in a 68 inch (1518 cm) deep cat hole at least 100 feet (30 m) from water and trails. Be the first to share your experience. At km 19.2, a BC Parks cabin is open for public use. Advise friends or relatives of your trip duration and destination. Turn left here towards Lily Pad Lake. Id rather try a tasting sampler of battery acid. Want to report conditions for this trail? Stay at least 100 yards (91 m) from bears. The walk along the road is not difficult, and it creates a nice loop for the entire trail. Lie face down and clasp your hands over the back of your neck; stay still and silent. The trail continues just past the large parking lot for Artist Point. Definitely will do again. Howard Eaton Trail: Fishing Bridge-Canyon. Beautiful hike through meadows and forest, past lakes, and then past the South Rim overlooking the canyon and then finally to Artist's Point. We heard some fall all around which was a little scary. Do not leave food, trash, toiletries, backpacks, coolers, water bottles, or any potential attractant unattended. Please explore responsibly! The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". To extend Lake Hollywood Reservoir Walking Trail even more, and hike all the way up to Mount Lee, Cahuenga Peak, and Burbank Peak, check out Hollywood Sign - Hollywood Reservoir Loop. Great trail! This trail also has a small spur trail up to the Artist PointPoint Sublime Trail. The lake is clear & bright green-blue & sulphur smell is abundant. It is a breathtaking place to photograph year round and at all times of the day, though in winter it can be closed. Bison laying about 5 feet off trail. The cabin can accommodate four people comfortably. Did the loop. We missed the turn for the canyon and accident continued on to Ribbon Lake. Surrounded by trees, this is a sheltered refuge perfect for an overnight in Indian Heaven. At km 19.2, a BC Parks Cabin is open for public use. You hike 17 miles one way, 12 of which are in the mosquito infested woods with the same view. The hike is not super challenging if not for the distance, however, my question is why? Generally considered a challenging route. I thought the bad reviews might be from inexperienced hikers, but the negative reviews were all correct. I've done this hike a few times and recommend the side trip to Ribbon Lake is worth the extra few miles; if you've seen Silver Cord Cascade (1,200' and Yellowstone's tallest falls) from the north side of the canyon, it actually comes directly from Ribbon Lake. Find the junction for Lake Wapiki about 5.2 miles from the Lemei Lake trailhead. Sweeping meadow views, mud pots, forest lakes, canyons &waterfalls- great hike to get a taste of Yellowstone and avoid parking headache at Artists Point. After Uncle Toms Trail continue on South Rim Trail to the Upper Falls overlook. It gave me a pleasant sense of freedom to stride past the long line of cars waiting for a parking place. Well maintained with gentle elevation changes, my 11-year-old granddaughter walked it without difficulty. Red Rock Point on the north side of the Yellowstone River gives amazing views up and down the canyon and is only a short .3 miles from the North Rim Road. If a Bear Charges You: Stand still, do not run. This hike throught the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone should take 3-4 hours and will take you to two massive waterfalls, a hydrothermal area, and two peaceful lakes. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. If a Bear Makes Contact: Drop to the ground; play dead. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places. Between 24 and 25 kilometres there is a terrific view of both Wapiti Lake to the south and Onion Lake to the north. Stay 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves. Grizzly and black bears inhabit all of Yellowstone National Park. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 44 min to complete. Hike beyond that to Sublime was more than moderate but the views were amazing. Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Howard Eaton Trail: Fishing BridgeCanyon. It wasnt too high though but the trek of over a mile through the marsh was pretty horrible with everyones feet getting soaked and muddy. Brink of the Lower Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. Beginning at the Wapiti Lake Trailhead, follow the Wapiti Lake Trail east. Lie face down and clasp your hands over the back of your neck; stay still and silent. Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. Cons: lots of meadows that can expose you to the sun, SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Roads leading to this trailhead are subject to seasonal closure during winter. The river disappears around a corner at the brink of Upper Falls. This trailhead starts at the Chittenden Bridge Picnic Area. This dirt trail runs along the canyon rim with the ever changing views of the canyon and the Yellowstone River far below. Bury human waste and toilet tissue in a 68 inch (1518 cm) deep cat hole at least 100 feet (30 m) from water and trails. The final leg (Wapiti) changes to grassland, and we watched a golden eagle hunt. Pros: easy to moderate hike, great campsites, lots of wild life, s clouded
River crossings are hazardous. From Yellowstone Lake, head north on Grand Loop Road. If you enjoy swarms of mosquitoes, getting your feet soaked in swampland, and a lot of time hiking in forest then this hike is for you. Don't turn around and head back. Wait several minutes after the bear leaves before getting up and leaving the area. This trail was an absolute joy! Ended up being 2.6 miles just the one way and not hiking back to the car. Get complete property information, maps, street view, schools, walk score and more. Hopefully these rims will open soon. The trailpasses through open meadows as you hike to Cascade Lake where wildflowers abound and wildlife is often seen.You will need a wilderness permit to backpack and camp out here. Discover this 4.6-mile loop trail near West Yellowstone, Montana. The trail from Wapiti Lake to Onion Lake ascends steeply into the alpine. Beautiful area, though. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Lower Grand Canyon Falls is one of the gems of Yellowstone and is the one of the most photographed spots in the park. The views are spectacular regardless and a pretty easy trek with the hot pots still boiling and the amazing views of Yellowstone canyon. wet and muddy in the beginning but gets better once you hit the forest. No Hunting: No hunting or discharge of firearms. JetPack installs this cookie to collect internal metrics for user activity and in turn improve user experience. SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Roads leading to this trailhead are subject to seasonal closure during winter. For more information, please visit. Join a supporting community of travelers and adventurers sharing their photos and local insights. Vault toilets are located at the western end of the parking lot. Be Alert: Watch for signs of bear activity: scratches in trees, tracks, scat, or dig sites. Canoeing and kayaking opportunities exist on Wapiti Lake and along the Wapiti River. Hike in groups of 3 or more; keep your group together. The trail/stair case is visible from the opposite of the canyon, weaving its way down the canyon wall to a nice outlook at the base. 25% 0% 75% 0% 0% 0% Add a Photo. Park waters are swift and cold. Why would anyone want to do this distance to see basically nothing? Hiking back up the stairs will most likely completely wear you out. Follow the Wolf Lake Trail into a meadow and the remnants of a forest fire until you reach the 25-foot falls. Peaceful hike & not crowded later in the day. Easy hike. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. From this point on, the park is located 13.8 km along the trail. Felt soles prohibited. Experience Yellowstones diversity with this epic loop hike.How to get there: Wapiti Lake Trailhead is located just south of Upper Falls of the Yellowstone. The trail follows along the Wapiti river and a few small lakes along the way. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. These regulations apply to ALL backcountry users. Great trail. The Hike: The hike begins with a steady climb through and open meadow. Hike in Groups: Travel in groups of 3 or more is recommended. Photos. A junction for Uncle Toms Trail heads off to the left. . FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Installed by Google Analytics, _gid cookie stores information on how visitors use a website, while also creating an analytics report of the website's performance. Hike back up to the road and follow it back to the trailhead parking lot. As someone used to hiking at altitude, I would rate this trail as easy. Surrounded by trees, this is a sheltered refuge perfect for an overnight in Indian Heaven. As you approach Clear Lake youll notice a junction to the left that cuts to Uncle Toms trail. Beautiful hike that shows off a lot of the different geography of Yellowstone. If the cabin is in use, please be prepared to camp outside. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. The campsite was cool but at night we were really worried that one of the many older trees was going to fall on us when it got really windy. The return shows coming back via south rim road but we stick to the rim trail. August 2011 - a day hiker, hiking by himself, was killed by a grizzly bear on the Mary Mountain Trail in Hayden Valley. The trail follows along the Wapiti river and a few small lakes along the way. Best views that cant be seen by day hikers. Experience Yellowstones diversity with this epic loop hike. Here is another overlook of Upper Falls. Only one buffalo on trail which was quite aggressive. Terrain is rugged and weather can change quickly. which is very close to the trailhead, and this trailhead is the best place to park.