Slough Creek, Yellowstone National Park: Meadow Valley and Slough Creek Tuff Formation Details

Q: Is it worth the 2–8 mile hike to see the meadows and wildlife?

Yes. The first meadow at about 2 miles offers strong wildlife viewing and trout habitat; longer hikes reveal expansive meadows, more wildlife, and iconic river scenery.

Q: Can I fish Slough Creek?

Yes, but you must hold a valid Yellowstone fishing permit; angling is restricted by park rules and seasons.

Q: Is the water safe to drink or blue like photos suggest?

Water is typically clear; early-season water can be off-color and cross-country crossings may be hazardous; boil or treat water at the campground pump before drinking.

Q: Will my 65-year-old parent be able to reach viewpoints?

Some views are accessible near the trailhead and campground; upper meadows require longer hikes with rugged terrain—plan at a comfortable pace and use accessible facilities where available.

+2 more

Overview

About This Attraction

A broad meadow frames Slough Creek as it winds through grasses and cottonwoods. The VIP Pool at the confluence with the Lamar River rests along a quiet bend where Yellowstone cutthroat trout and wildlife gather. This meadow stream grew through fluvial erosion and glacial deposition, leaving a wide, flat floodplain that supports diverse life.

Best Time to Visit

Optimal season runs from late spring through early fall. Fishing typically improves from late June or early July through mid-September. Snowmelt keeps the creek high, and it is often not fishable until around the second week of July. For photography and sight fishing, morning light enhances visibility in the clear, slow-moving water. The meadows have broad, open vistas, and morning fog is common during the still hours.

Visitor Tips

Park early; the Slough Creek Trailhead lot fills during peak seasons and wildlife events.
Bear spray is essential in this bear country; stay on established routes.
Dawn and dusk are prime times for wildlife watching in the Lamar Valley.
Crossing the creek can be challenging in early season; carry traction devices and use designated crossing points.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: 44.9488466, -110.3068792

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Lamar Valley wildlife viewing; Slough Creek Campground; Absaroka-Beartooth wilderness

Insider Tips

Target dawn in Lamar Valley for wildlife silhouettes
Carry bear spray and keep distance from wildlife
The first meadow is approximately 2 miles from the trailhead; plan for 4–8 miles for upper meadows

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

One accessible campsite and accessible vault toilets; trails on compacted gravel/dirt

Family Friendly:

Bear awareness essential; keep children close; stay on trails and away from water edges

Nearby Facilities:

Slough Creek Campground facilities; vault toilets; hand-pump water (boil before drinking)

FAQs

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Parking fills early in peak seasons; plan to arrive before 8am, and be prepared for overflow lots and stock trailers occupying spaces.

Is it worth the 2–8 mile hike to see the meadows and wildlife?

Can I fish Slough Creek?

Is the water safe to drink or blue like photos suggest?

Will my 65-year-old parent be able to reach viewpoints?

📖 datapages.com 📖 yellowstoneexplored.com 📖 wikipedia.org 📖 usgs.gov 📖 confex.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 flyfishingyellowstonenationalpark.com 📖 thedyrt.com 📖 hike734.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 yellowstonenationalpark.com 📖 yellowstone.org 📖 wereintherockies.com 📖 Current time information in Park County, US. 📖 hipcamp.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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