Gneiss Creek Trail: 13.9-Mile Point-to-Point Hike from Gneiss Creek Trailhead to Seven Mile Bridge Trailhead

Q: Do I need a permit for day use?

Backcountry regulations apply; overnight camping, fishing, boating, and riding require permits. Day use may be subject to backcountry rules depending on season.

Q: Is a dog allowed on this trail?

No. Dogs are not permitted on backcountry trails in Yellowstone.

Q: Is cell service available along the trail?

No reliable service; treat as a dead zone and rely on navigation tools.

Q: How do I get the backcountry permit?

Call the Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160 for overnight camping permits and regulations.

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Overview

About This Trail

Mission Brief: Gneiss Creek is a 13.9-mile point-to-point dirt trail with minimal vertical gain. It runs through backcountry terrain where bears, bison, and elk roam; creek crossings demand focus and proper footwear. Plan for a two-day backpack or a long day for fit hikers; bring water treatment and navigation gear. Hydration, bear safety, and shuttle logistics are non-negotiable.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Long dirt traverse with wildlife opportunities and evidence of 1988 fire regeneration; multiple creek crossings and open meadow sections for expansive travel

Insider Tips

• Plan a shuttle or two-vehicle logistics for a one-way hike • Beware bear area closure window (Mar 10–Jun 30); adjust timing • Start early or late for wildlife activity; pack warm layers for morning/late day • Water filter and navigation tools are non-negotiable

Best Season to Hike

July–September

Hiking Tips

Carry 2 liters of water minimum
Filter water at creeks along the trail
Carry bear spray and know how to use it
Trekking poles help on creek crossings
Bring map/compass and navigation tools

Family Info

Length and wildlife risk make it challenging for young children; better for experienced hikers or older, capable kids

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 13.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 200 ft

Duration: Backpacking: ~2 days. Day hikers: time varies with how much of the trail you cover; plan for long day or overnight.

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Point-to-Point

Surface: Dirt; meadow and forest sections

Getting There

Trailhead: Gneiss Creek Trailhead along Highway 191 (west boundary, ~9.7 miles from West Entrance on Route 19 toward Bozeman) OR Seven Mile Bridge Trailhead along West Entrance Road

Parking: Limited parking at the Gneiss Creek Trailhead; no published capacity data.

Fills Up: Parking tends to fill quickly on weekends and during peak season; plan to arrive early to secure a space.

Requirements

Permit Required

Overnight camping, fishing, boating, and riding require permits. For overnight camping, contact the Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160

Fees: Varies; backcountry permit costs not published

Shuttle Required

Coordinate shuttle between Gneiss Creek Trailhead and Seven Mile Bridge; plan for two-vehicle logistics if doing a one-way trip; arrange pickup at finish in advance

Trail Rules

Dogs: No

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-marked in places; carry map/compass; backcountry navigation advised

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Creeks along the trail; water should be filtered or treated

Shade: Mixed; forested sections provide shade, open meadows are sun-exposed

Cell Service: Dead zone in backcountry

Hazards:

Bear management area in northern sections; stay on designated trails during closure; keep 100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from large mammals; creek crossings can be high and slippery; thunderstorms demand quick descent from open areas and avoidance of tall isolated trees; cell service is unreliable

Emergency: Yellowstone Backcountry Office: (307) 344-2160; Yellowstone General Information: (307) 344-2111; In emergencies dial 911

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Lightly used

Peak Times: Early mornings and weekends in July–September

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Backcountry trail; rough, natural terrain

Family Notes:

Length and wildlife risk make it challenging for young children; better for experienced hikers or older, capable kids

Nearby Facilities

Closest services in West Yellowstone and Gardiner; no facilities along the trail

FAQs

Are bears frequent on this trail?

Yes. Bears are present year-round; stay on designated trails, carry bear spray, and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.

Do I need a permit for day use?

Is a dog allowed on this trail?

Is cell service available along the trail?

How do I get the backcountry permit?

📖 nps.gov 📖 yellowstoneexplored.com 📖 hikingproject.com 📖 outsidebozeman.com 📖 trailforks.com 📖 recreation.gov 📖 litwick.net 📖 thepedalproject.org 📖 wildlandtrekking.com 📖 yellowstone.co 📖 yellowstoneguidelines.com 📖 planyellowstone.com 📖 yellowstonenationalparklodges.com 📖 yellowstone.org 📖 bozemanchamber.com 📖 backcountrypost.com 📖 naturalatlas.com 📖 Current time information in Park County, US. 📖 yellowstonepark.com 📖 destinationyellowstone.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Gneiss Creek