Moderate-to-heavy during July-August peak season, especially 10 AM-4 PM. Weekdays quieter than weekends. May, June, September, and October are much quieter. Winter (Nov-Apr) sees minimal traffic. Start by 6-7 AM for better solitude odds even in summer.

Lost Lake Trail - 2.8mi Moderate Loop

Q: Is this trail safe to hike alone?

Not recommended. While the trail is popular and well-marked, solo hiking here is reckless given bear activity. Hike with a partner minimum (groups deter bears). If you must go solo, inform a ranger of your route and expected return time, make aggressive noise, and turn back immediately if you feel unsafe.

Q: What fitness level do I need?

Moderate. 300 feet of elevation gain over 2.8 miles is manageable for most hikers with basic cardio fitness. The challenge is not technical scrambling—it's sun exposure, relentless climbing, and psychological load of bear vigilance. Trekking poles and a steady pace help tremendously.

Q: What gear is essential?

Bear spray (mandatory—must be accessible on your hip), 2+ liters water, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), map, and sturdy boots or hiking shoes. Trekking poles ease knee strain on descent. First-aid kit, insect repellent, and emergency whistle are wise. Light layers—weather can shift fast at elevation.

Q: Can I do this trail as an out-and-back instead of a loop?

Yes. You can hike to Lost Lake from Roosevelt Lodge and return the same way (~2 miles round trip, less elevation), skipping the Petrified Tree loop extension. Perfect for time-constrained or reluctant hikers. Same scenery, lower time commitment and mileage.

Q: Is there water on the trail?

No reliable potable water. A small creek near Lost Lake *may* flow in summer, but water quality is not guaranteed—filter aggressively if you draw from it. Carry 2+ liters of water from the trailhead. Dehydration is a real risk on sun-exposed sections.

Distance

2.8 mi

Elevation Gain

300 ft

Est. Time

1-2 hours if you maintain steady pace; 2-3 hours with wildlife stops and photo breaks

Route Type

Loop (or out-and-back segments possible)

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

May through September. Roads typically open mid-April; September marks the onset of frost and shortened daylight. Winter hiking is possible but requires winter-specific gear (crampons, microspikes, extra water/insulation).

Overview

About This Trail

This 2.8-mile moderate loop earns its name: Lost Lake delivers scenic water views, waterfowl, and if you're lucky, beaver dams and wildflowers. The elevation gain (300 feet) is steady but not crushing—expect 1-2 hours if you move at purpose. The real hazard: this area has serious bear and bison traffic. Keep your head on a swivel and your bear spray loaded."

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Lost Lake reflections with mountain frame, waterfowl and possible beaver sightings, wildflower displays in early summer, open sagebrush vistas, Petrified Tree curiosity stop, high probability of black bear and bison encounters (not optional).

Insider Tips

• Start at 6 AM or earlier to beat crowds and catch bears in peak activity (dawn foraging). • The first lake viewpoint (Mile 1.5) will tempt early turnarounds—resist it. Continue to the far side of Lost Lake (beyond Mile 2) for the real reflection shot with mountain backdrop and calm water (beaver work). • Bring trekking poles—the descent from the bench hammers knees; poles cut stress by 40%. • Horseback riders often use this trail weekday mornings (tourist rides from Roosevelt)—hike early or go mid-afternoon to avoid horse encounters. • Water caching: Ranger office (Tower Ranger Station) can advise if Lost Lake Creek is reliable for filtering; don't assume. • Golden hour (first 2 hours or last 2 hours of daylight) provides best light for camera work and water reflections. • The bench section is the real sweat—relentless grade with no break. Save water for that push.

Best Season to Hike

Hiking Tips

Carry 2+ liters of water minimum—sagebrush terrain has zero reliable sources.
Bear spray is not optional—holster it on your hip belt, not in a pack.
Make constant noise (talk, use a bear bell, clap)—surprise encounters are dangerous.
Bring trekking poles for the descent; 300 feet down hammers the knees.
Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are mandatory on the bench section (exposed ridge).
Hike with a partner minimum; solo hiking here is reckless given bear density.
Check trail conditions before winter trips—icy sections need crampons.
Never stop at the first lake viewpoint; continue to the far side for the real reflection shot.

Family Info

Moderate difficulty is manageable for fit kids ages 10+. Keep children close—bear and bison encounters are real and frequent here. Hand-holding required on steeper bench segments. Stop frequently (every 20-30 minutes) for wildlife watching to break up the climb and manage pace. Teach kids to make noise and stay behind you on the trail. Not suitable for toddlers or children tired easily by elevation gain.

What Hikers Say

Hikers respect this trail for its moderate difficulty and guaranteed wildlife encounters. The 300-foot climb is steady but not brutal; most rate it worth the effort for Lost Lake views and waterfowl activity. Feedback centers on bear anxiety (warranted—they're here) and knee stress on the descent. Those prepared for wildlife and sun exposure praise the scenic payoff and solitude opportunities on early-start attempts.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 2.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 300 ft

Duration: 1-2 hours if you maintain steady pace; 2-3 hours with wildlife stops and photo breaks

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Loop (or out-and-back segments possible)

Surface: Dirt and gravel with firm bench sections. Roots in forested areas, loose scree on hillside contours. Well-packed from heavy use.

Getting There

Trailhead: Roosevelt Lodge (primary; behind the lodge) or Petrified Tree parking area west of Tower Junction

Parking: Roosevelt Lodge main lot: unknown capacity. Petrified Tree overflow lot: unknown capacity.

Fills Up: Roosevelt Lodge lot fills by 7-8 AM on peak days (Jul-Aug); Petrified Tree lot fills by 8-9 AM. Shoulder seasons rarely fill before noon.

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required for day hiking on this trail. Register at the trailhead if requested by rangers.

Fees: $35 park entrance fee (7-day pass; valid for all private vehicles). Lost Lake Trail itself is free once park access is paid.

Shuttle Available

Not required. Two trailhead options (Roosevelt Lodge and Petrified Tree parking) allow flexibility. Starting at Petrified Tree avoids Roosevelt congestion and adds directional variety to the loop.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Pets are not permitted on Yellowstone hiking trails per NPS regulation.

Biking: No. This is a hiking trail only. Mountain bikes are not permitted. Horses are allowed (trail is shared with horseback riders)—give them the downhill side of the trail and stand still until they pass.

Trail Markers: Well-marked and heavily used. The main trail is obvious, but junctions near Petrified Tree parking and Tower Ranger Station require attention to stay on the loop. Cairns and worn tread make the route clear. A map is wise to confirm orientation at intersections.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable potable water sources on the trail. A small creek near Lost Lake may flow in summer, but water quality is not guaranteed—filter aggressively if you draw from it. Carry all water needed (2+ liters minimum). Never drink untreated water in bear country (cryptosporidium risk and wildlife pollution).

Shade: Partial sun and shade. Forested sections near Roosevelt Lodge offer canopy; the bench climb and sagebrush terrain are fully exposed to direct sun. UV exposure is significant on ridge sections. Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are non-negotiable.

Cell Service: Spotty to nonexistent. Do not rely on cell signal for emergencies. Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time before departure. In emergencies, make noise to alert nearby hikers or rangers, or hike out and report to Tower Ranger Station.

Hazards:

This area is home to many bears and bison—the NPS safety notes specifically warn of frequent encounters. Use caution, make noise, and keep 100+ yards from wildlife. Trail shared with horseback riders; move to the downhill side and stand still until they pass. Bench section has steeper drop-offs; not technically exposed, but a slip matters. Sagebrush sections lack shade; sun exposure and dehydration are real risks in summer heat. Roots in forested areas can catch toes. Ridge sections catch wind and sudden weather.

Emergency: Tower Ranger Station (nearest official contact, park-managed). Yellowstone emergency: dial 911 if service is available; otherwise hike out to the nearest ranger station or populated area. In bear encounters, follow NPS guidance: make yourself large, back away, use bear spray as last resort.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to heavy during peak season (Jul-Aug), especially weekends and midday. Much quieter during shoulder seasons (May, Jun, Sep, Oct) and off-season (Nov-Apr). Popular enough that solitude is rare in summer.

Peak Times: July-August (peak summer), especially 10 AM-4 PM. Weekends busier than weekdays. Early morning (before 8 AM) and late afternoon (after 4 PM) offer some breathing room even in summer.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and steep in forested sections; firm bench sections on ridge. Not suitable for mobility devices, crutches, or strollers. The elevation gain and uneven terrain require solid leg strength and balance. Not wheelchair accessible.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Roosevelt Lodge (trailhead, historic building, ranger info, restrooms); Tower Fall Campground (~3 miles away); Mammoth District Ranger Station (~20 miles); Tower Junction has basic services. No on-trail services—all supplies must be carried in.

What Hikers Say

Reviews

" Hikers respect this trail for its moderate difficulty and guaranteed wildlife encounters. The 300-foot climb is steady but not brutal; most rate it worth the effort for Lost Lake views and waterfowl activity. Feedback centers on bear anxiety (warranted—they're here) and knee stress on the descent. Those prepared for wildlife and sun exposure praise the scenic payoff and solitude opportunities on early-start attempts."

Reviews from Google

FAQs

Will I see bears on this trail?

Very likely. This is high-bear-activity terrain—the NPS specifically warns of frequent encounters. Make constant noise, hike with a partner minimum, carry bear spray (accessible on hip, not in pack), and maintain 100+ yards distance. Bears are more dangerous when surprised; prevention is everything. If you see one, back away slowly, do not run.

Is this trail safe to hike alone?

What fitness level do I need?

What gear is essential?

Can I do this trail as an out-and-back instead of a loop?

How crowded is it?

Is there water on the trail?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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