Service dogs only, leashed and under control. Regular dogs are not permitted in Yellowstone.

Black Butte Ski Trail - 14mi Advanced

Q: How long does it actually take?

10–14 hours for the full loop. Most skiers finish in 5–7 hours if turning around at Daly Creek junction (7 miles), which is the safer call.

Q: Are there bears and wolves on this trail?

Yes. Stay 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from bison and elk. Make constant noise while skiing and carry bear spray.

Q: What if I get lost in a whiteout?

Turn back immediately. Trail is skier-tracked but markers are minimal. Bring map, compass, and GPS. Whiteouts close visibility to zero—don't push on hoping to find the way.

Q: Do I need avalanche gear?

Yes. Beacon, shovel, and probe are mandatory, not optional. Check avalanche forecast before departure. You must know how to use all three.

Distance

14 mi

Elevation Gain

769 ft

Est. Time

10–14 hours depending on fitness, snow conditions, and turnaround point. Most skiers finish in 5–7 hours if turning around at Daly Creek junction.

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Winter only (December–March, weather dependent)

Overview

About This Trail

Black Butte Ski Trail is a 14-mile roundtrip backcountry ski through exposed alpine terrain following Black Butte Creek—advanced skiers only. The first 2 miles climb 769 feet with steep sections; the final 2 miles become dangerously exposed and are explicitly not recommended by NPS. Mountain views reward those who turnaround at the Daly Creek junction (7 miles) rather than pushing to Bighorn Peak. This is not a scenic cruise; it's a serious winter test of technical ability, navigation, and avalanche awareness.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Extreme—advanced skiers only

Trail Highlights

Alpine mountain views framed by Black Butte Creek valley. The Daly Creek junction (7 miles) offers the best risk-reward turnaround with panoramic views without the dangerously exposed final push.

Insider Tips

• Most skiers turnaround at Daly Creek junction (7 miles) for the best view and shortest exposure. Final 2 miles are not worth the risk. • Check avalanche forecast at NOAA or your local service—conditions change rapidly in winter. • Daly Creek Cutoff at 2 miles provides a shorter alternative route. • Start by 6 AM even in good conditions—winter daylight is your ticking clock. • Carry full emergency kit: beacon, shovel, probe, satellite messenger, space blanket. • The "false summit" at the 2-mile mark tricks many—the real climb continues.

Best Season to Hike

Winter only (December–March, weather dependent)

Hiking Tips

Carry avalanche beacon, shovel, probe. Check forecast before departure.
Bring map and compass—skier-tracked but hard to follow in whiteouts.
Turnaround at Daly Creek junction (7 miles, ~5–7 hours) rather than final 2 miles.
Minimum 2L water despite snow; stay hydrated at altitude.
Make noise constantly—bears, wolves, bison, elk frequent this corridor.
Tighten boots. Tighten boot cuffs. Tighten them again.
Wear goggles and full face protection—wind and snow glare are relentless.

Family Info

Not recommended for children. Requires advanced skiing ability, 10–14 hour endurance commitment, serious avalanche hazard, exposure to whiteout conditions, and wildlife management. Risk of hypothermia is high for young skiers.

What Hikers Say

Advanced skiers report solitude, mountain views, and serious technical challenge, but all sources emphasize the final 2 miles are dangerously steep and exposed—most turnaround at Daly Creek. Avalanche conditions and whiteout potential make this a serious winter commitment. Only for skiers comfortable with self-rescue and avalanche management.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 14 miles

Elevation Gain: 769 ft

Duration: 10–14 hours depending on fitness, snow conditions, and turnaround point. Most skiers finish in 5–7 hours if turning around at Daly Creek junction.

Difficulty: Extreme—advanced skiers only

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Snow and packed ski trail; steep, exposed sections with variable snow quality depending on wind and recent storms.

Getting There

Trailhead: 28.8 miles north of West Yellowstone on US Highway 191 (46.3 km from town center)

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required. Backcountry ski—avalanche beacon, shovel, probe mandatory. Check NPS and NOAA avalanche forecasts before departure.

Fees: $35 per private vehicle (7-day Yellowstone entrance pass); $20 per person on foot/ski for visitors 16 and older.

Shuttle Available

None available. Self-drive access only via US Highway 191 north.

Trail Rules

Dogs: Service dogs only, must be leashed and under control. Regular dogs not permitted in Yellowstone.

Biking: No bikes allowed. Winter ski trail only.

Trail Markers: Skier-tracked but difficult to follow in whiteouts or deep snow. Minimal blazing. Cairns absent in many sections.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Black Butte Creek along most of the trail—melt water for emergency hydration. Carry thermos with hot water. Bring minimum 2L water/electrolyte drink despite snow presence at altitude.

Shade: Mostly exposed alpine terrain with limited tree cover in upper sections. Full sun protection required—winter sun reflection off snow intensifies UV exposure.

Hazards:

Final 2 miles are dangerously steep and exposed—NPS explicitly warns against them. Avalanche terrain with no stable anchors. Whiteout potential closes visibility to zero. Federal regulations mandate 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from bison and all other wildlife. Wind-chill at altitude amplifies cold exposure. Trail is skier-tracked but becomes hard to follow in poor conditions.

Emergency: Yellowstone emergency: 911 (if service available). Nearest ranger station: Mammoth District Ranger Station. Report location and injuries via satellite messenger if cell fails.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Ghost town—backcountry winter trail sees minimal traffic

Peak Times: Rarely crowded. Holiday weeks (late December) may see modest uptick; most busy on clear weekend days in January–February.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Steep and technical backcountry ski terrain with exposed sections. Service dogs only permitted. Advanced skiing ability required. Not accessible for most visitors.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

West Yellowstone, 28.8 miles south, has lodging, restaurants, ski shops, and gear rental. No services at trailhead. Last chance for fuel/food is before the 28.8-mile drive north.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail good for beginner or intermediate skiers?

No. NPS explicitly recommends it for advanced skiers only. The final 2 miles are dangerously steep and exposed. Do not attempt if you're still learning technique.

How long does it actually take?

Are there bears and wolves on this trail?

What if I get lost in a whiteout?

Do I need avalanche gear?

Can I bring my dog?

🏞️ 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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