Bannock Ski 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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 132

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 132
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
Trail Surface: Old road bed
Trail Features: Open meadows
Mixed conifer forest
Old road bed
Soda Butte Creek bridge
Wilderness views
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.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Warm Creek picnic area, 1 mile west of Northeast Entrance
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle required. Warm Creek picnic area parking is at the trailhead.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permit required for general use. Qualified service animals must have a backcountry access permit and remain leashed at all times.
Fees: No fees
Trail Status: Open December through March (weather dependent)
Seasonal Closures: Typically inaccessible April-November due to lack of snow. Exact seasonal window varies by snowfall. Check NPS website for current status.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Soda Butte Creek at trailhead bridge crossing. No other reliable water sources on trail—carry all water needed.
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.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Wildlife (bison, elk, bears, wolves)
Narrow bridge at trailhead
Cold exposure and hypothermia risk
Snow and ice conditions
Hazard Details: 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.
Best Season: Winter
Best Time To Visit: Early morning in winter when snow is stable and firm. January-February typically offer the deepest, most consistent snow and coldest (most stable) conditions.
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: Northeast Area
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.
Dogs Allowed: No. Service animals only, with backcountry access permit, and must remain leashed.
Biking Allowed: No. Designated ski and snowshoe trail during winter.
Shade Level: Mixed. Open meadows alternate with mixed conifer forest sections. Sun exposure high in meadows; shade available in forested areas.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Trail typically open December through March (specific dates vary by snowfall)
Mud Season: Not applicable—winter ski trail
Wildflower Peak: Not applicable—winter ski trail
Fall Colors Peak: Not applicable—winter ski trail
Bug Season: Not significant. Winter conditions prevent insect activity.
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.
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
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.
Review Summary: 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.

Frequently asked questions

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.