Bighorn Loop Ski Trail

Q: Can I go solo safely?

Yes, but not recommended. Skier-tracked terrain is navigable alone, but wildlife hazards (bison, elk) are harder to manage without a partner. Bring a satellite communicator if going solo in winter.

Q: What if the shuttle is full or cancelled?

Call 307-344-7311 to reserve ahead. If full, reschedule to a weekday. If weather cancels the shuttle, you cannot legally access the trailhead without it—don't attempt alternative access.

Q: How much water do I need?

Carry 2+ liters. No potable water sources on trail. Do not drink unfiltered snow due to hydrothermal contamination in Yellowstone.

Q: What if I see bison or elk on the trail?

Stop. Stay 25+ yards away. Do NOT approach for photos. Back away slowly if they approach. Bison can run 30+ mph. Violating wildlife distance laws results in fines and injury.

Q: Can I snowshoe instead of ski?

Yes. Snowshoeing is fully allowed and takes 3-4 hours. Same shuttle, same wildlife rules, same hazards. Slower but accessible for non-skiers.

Q: Is this trail open year-round?

No. Winter only—December through March typically, depending on snow. Call the park to confirm current conditions before planning a trip.

Distance

5.5 mi

Elevation Gain

320 ft

Est. Time

2-3 hours depending on fitness, snow conditions, and photography stops

Route Type

Loop

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Winter (December through March)

Overview

About This Trail

A 5.5-mile winter ski loop through rolling terrain at Mammoth Hot Springs, rated easy to more difficult with 320 feet of elevation gain. Skier-tracked route delivers outstanding views of the Gallatin Mountains and Gardners Hole. Shuttle access from Mammoth Hotel is required; bison and elk frequent the trail, demanding wildlife awareness and safe distances.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy to Moderate

Trail Highlights

Outstanding winter mountain views with Gallatin Mountains and Gardners Hole visible from rolling sections. Reliable bison and elk sighting opportunity. Skier-tracked trail ensures navigable conditions in deep snow.

Insider Tips

• The first mile (Indian Creek Loop section) is the easiest; the western loop is where the mountain views and elevation gain kick in • Book shuttle 2-3 days ahead on winter weekends; single-day availability is hit-or-miss • Ski between 7 AM and 2 PM; afternoon temperature swings and wind are brutal • Bison congregate in open meadow sections mid-trail; make noise constantly and photograph from 30+ yards • The 0.12-mile cut-off near Indian Creek Warming Hut shortens the route to ~5.3 miles if weather deteriorates

Best Season to Hike

Winter (December through March)

Hiking Tips

Carry 2+ liters water minimum—dehydration hits hard at altitude even in winter
Make constant noise: bison and elk frequent this trail
Stay 25 yards from bison, 100 yards from bears/wolves per federal law
Avoid hydrothermal areas; ground is unstable—stay on marked trail
Book shuttle ahead (307-344-7311); winter weekends fill by 7 AM
Layer heavy; temperature swings are brutal once the sun sets
If beginner, rent skis locally; weight and technique matter in powder

Family Info

Suitable for families with intermediate-to-advanced skiers (age 8+). Young children need winter ski experience due to rolling terrain and elevation gain. Shuttle logistics are family-friendly. Constant wildlife supervision required due to bison and elk presence. Snowshoeing is slower (3-4 hours) but accessible for non-skiers.

What Hikers Say

Winter skiers report reliable snow coverage, excellent mountain views, and manageable rolling terrain for intermediate-to-advanced skiers. Shuttle dependency adds logistical complexity but limits crowds. Wildlife presence is real—bison sightings are common. Winter conditions and hydrothermal hazards require preparation and respect.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 5.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 320 ft

Duration: 2-3 hours depending on fitness, snow conditions, and photography stops

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Packed snow (skier-tracked), rolling terrain with some forested sections

Getting There

Trailhead: Indian Creek Warming Hut, Mammoth Hot Springs area

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required for day use. Shuttle reservation serves as access authorization.

Fees: No trail fees. Shuttle service costs unknown—contact park hotels for current rates.

Shuttle Required

Ski shuttle operates from Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Reservations may be required. Contact Yellowstone Park hotels or call 307-344-7311 (Toll-free: 866-439-7375, TDD: 304-344-5395) to reserve. One-way or round-trip options available.

Trail Rules

Dogs: Service animals only, leashed and under control. Backcountry access pass required for service animals.

Biking: No—ski and snowshoe only

Trail Markers: Skier-tracked, marked trail. Navigation is straightforward on the loop but whiteout conditions can obscure tracks. Bring a map and compass as backup.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable potable sources on trail. Carry 2+ liters. Do not drink unfiltered snow/meltwater due to hydrothermal contamination risk.

Shade: Partial shade—forested sections provide cover, but open rolling terrain exposes skiers to wind and sun reflection off snow

Cell Service: Unknown—mountain terrain typically has spotty or no coverage

Hazards:

Federal regulations mandate 100-yard distance from bears/wolves, 25-yard distance from bison and elk. Hydrothermal areas have unstable, scalding ground—stay on designated trail. Winter conditions create avalanche risk on steep sections. Wind chill and snow blindness are real threats.

Emergency: 911 for emergencies. Non-emergency ranger services: 307-344-7381. Mammoth District Ranger Station for pre-trip intel.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate—shuttle capacity limits daily visitors

Peak Times: Winter weekends and holiday weeks (late December through early January, Presidents Day week). Best solitude: weekday mornings in January and February.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Skier-tracked easy-to-moderate trail over rolling terrain. Accessible only via ski or snowshoe. No paved, wheelchair, or mobility-device access. 320-foot elevation change requires intermediate fitness.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel (shuttle origin, lodging, dining). Mammoth District Ranger Station. Indian Creek Campground (7 miles north, winter access limited). Mammoth Campground (year-round, full services in summer only).

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Do I need to be an expert skier?

No. 'Easy to more difficult' means the route has easy sections, but rolling terrain and 320 feet of elevation require intermediate ski control and fitness. Beginner skiers should practice on flat terrain first.

Can I go solo safely?

What if the shuttle is full or cancelled?

How much water do I need?

What if I see bison or elk on the trail?

Can I snowshoe instead of ski?

Is this trail open year-round?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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