Bannock Ski Trail

Q: Is it safe to ski alone?

Not advisable. Bison, elk, bears, and wolves live here. If you get injured miles from the road, you need a partner to help. Pair up. Wildlife encounters happen; you need backup.

Q: What's the biggest hazard I'll face?

Cold exposure and hypothermia. Moving keeps you warm, but a break can flip you into danger fast. Layer properly, don't strip off clothes, and know the signs: shivering, confusion, slurred speech. Treat cold as seriously as the bears.

Q: What's the deal with the wildlife?

Bison and elk frequent the meadows. Stay 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from everything else (federal rule, not a suggestion). Make noise as you travel. Do not approach animals for photos or block their escape routes.

Q: Do I need a permit to ski this trail?

No permit for general skiers. Service animals require a backcountry access permit. Check the NPS website for specific requirements.

Q: What if I slip on the bridge?

The Soda Butte Creek bridge at the start is narrow but stable. Approach at walking speed, not on skis. Test your footing. If you're uncomfortable crossing, turn around—no shame in it.

Q: How long will this take?

Plan 1-2 hours for the 2-mile trek out. Return is another 1-2 hours on the same trail. Total outing: 2-4 hours depending on fitness, snow depth, and how long you pause to watch wildlife. Don't rush—this isn't a race.

Distance

2 mi

Elevation Gain

132 ft

Est. Time

1-2 hours

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Winter

Overview

About This Trail

The Bannock Ski Trail is 2 miles of mellow winter skiing through meadows and mixed forest—perfect for building backcountry confidence. Only 132 feet of elevation gain on a mostly flat old road bed. You'll cross a narrow bridge over Soda Butte Creek, then traverse open meadows where bison and elk roam—which means respecting wildlife distance rules (100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from others). This is easy terrain, but winter conditions and wildlife require your full attention.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Accessible winter ski through Yellowstone meadows with frequent wildlife encounters (bison and elk). Mix of open meadows and forested terrain. Gateway to North Absaroka Wilderness at 1 mile from trailhead.

Insider Tips

• The bridge crossing at the start feels narrower than it is. Approach at a walk to build confidence. • Meadow sections are wind-exposed. Winter winds come from the west—expect wind in your face heading east toward Silver Gate. • Bison often rest in meadow depressions. They're easier to spot early morning or late afternoon. • Silver Gate is your turnaround point for most skiers. Beyond it, the road becomes a snowmobile route.

Best Season to Hike

Winter

Hiking Tips

Layer heavily. Winter mountain conditions are unforgiving.
Carry 2L water minimum. Dehydration happens faster in cold and at altitude.
Make noise. Bison and elk frequent this trail—don't startle them.
Maintain 100-yard distance from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other wildlife. Federal law.
Tighten your boots. The bridge crossing at the start is narrow.
Practice your stopping technique before heading into the trail.

Family Info

Suitable for families with basic winter skiing or snowshoeing skills. Mellow terrain and wildlife viewing appeal to kids. Teach children wildlife distance rules (100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from bison) and bridge safety. Cold exposure is the real concern—ensure proper layers.

What Hikers Say

Skiers praise this trail as an accessible entry point to Yellowstone winter backcountry. The mellow terrain suits beginners, while wildlife encounters and winter conditions keep things interesting. Most visitors rate it as an easy, confidence-building winter ski with natural appeal.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 2 miles

Elevation Gain: 132 ft

Duration: 1-2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Old road bed

Getting There

Trailhead: Warm Creek picnic area, 1 mile west of Northeast Entrance

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required for general use. Qualified service animals must have a backcountry access permit and remain leashed at all times.

Fees: No fees

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required. Warm Creek picnic area parking is at the trailhead.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Service animals only, with backcountry access permit, and must remain leashed.

Biking: No. Designated ski and snowshoe trail during winter.

Trail Markers: Skier-tracked. Trail is well-used and marked with ski tracks. Terrain is open enough to navigate visually, but a map is advised for backcountry safety.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Soda Butte Creek at trailhead bridge crossing. No other reliable water sources on trail—carry all water needed.

Shade: Mixed. Open meadows alternate with mixed conifer forest sections. Sun exposure high in meadows; shade available in forested areas.

Hazards:

Bison and elk frequent the trail. Federal regulations require 100-yard distance from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals. Narrow Soda Butte Creek bridge at start requires sure footing. Winter cold poses serious hypothermia risk if unprepared.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Mostly flat terrain on old road bed with gentle 132-foot elevation gain. Narrow bridge crossing over Soda Butte Creek at trailhead requires balanced footing. No technical climbing or scrambling.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Warm Creek picnic area at trailhead. Silver Gate and Cooke City, Montana are the trail endpoints and offer services. Northeast Entrance Station is 1 mile away.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can I do this as a beginner skier?

Yes. It's marked easy for a reason—132 feet of gain and flat terrain are genuinely forgiving. But you must control your skis, dress in layers, and stay alert in winter conditions. Take it slow, build confidence, and don't push your limits.

Is it safe to ski alone?

What's the biggest hazard I'll face?

What's the deal with the wildlife?

Do I need a permit to ski this trail?

What if I slip on the bridge?

How long will this take?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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