No. Pets are not permitted on this trail.

Elephant Back Mountain Trail - 3.5mi Moderate Hike

Q: Is 800 feet of elevation gain doable for an average hiker?

Yes, but it's aggressive. The 1.5-mile climb is relentless with few breaks. If you're fit, you'll feel it. If you're not, it'll be slow and tough. Pace yourself and take breaks on the way up.

Q: What's the toughest part?

The descent. Your quads will burn. The terrain is steep with loose footing. Trekking poles are essential. The way down takes longer than the climb for most hikers.

Q: Is this a solo-hike trail?

Not recommended. Grizzly bears are active here. Hike with at least one partner. Solo hikers are at higher risk in bear country. Make noise constantly.

Q: How much water do I need?

Minimum 2 liters for a fit hiker; bring 3 liters if it's hot or you're slower. The trail is dry—no refill sources. Drink on a schedule, not just when thirsty.

Distance

3.5 mi

Elevation Gain

800 ft

Est. Time

2-3 hours if you maintain steady pace; add 30 minutes for summit photos. The descent is tougher on your quads than the climb.

Route Type

Lollipop loop

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Summer and Fall

Overview

About This Trail

This is a steep lung-buster: 800 feet of elevation gain compressed into a 1.5-mile climb through dense lodgepole forest. The reward is a panoramic summit overlook of Yellowstone Lake. The route is a lollipop loop—the left fork at mile 0.8 is the shorter approach to the top. Grizzly bears are active here; stay alert, make noise constantly, and hike with a partner.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderately strenuous

Trail Highlights

Panoramic views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding area from the summit overlook

Insider Tips

• The trail junction at mile 0.8 splits into a loop; the left fork saves 0.4 miles to the summit. • Don't stop at the first viewpoint—the main overlook at the top offers the true panoramic vistas. • The descent is steeper on your body than the ascent; trekking poles are essential, not optional. • Bring a wide-brimmed hat; the summit is fully exposed to sun and wind.

Best Season to Hike

Summer and Fall

Hiking Tips

Make noise constantly—grizzly country. Talk, clap, carry bear spray if possible.
Carry minimum 2 liters of water; the forest climb is relentless and dry.
Tighten boots before the descent; twisted ankles are common on steep sections.
Don't settle for the false overlook at mile 0.8—keep climbing to the main summit.
Sun protection at the summit—you lose shade elevation and exposure is full-blast.
Bring trekking poles for the descent; your knees will thank you on the way down.
Never hike alone in bear country. Partner up, stay together.

Family Info

The 800-foot elevation gain is a lung-buster for young kids. The descent is steep and puts stress on developing knees. The bear warning is real—you need kids who can follow bear protocols. Not suitable for children under 8 without significant hiking experience.

What Hikers Say

Hikers respect this trail for its lung-busting elevation gain and impressive summit views of Yellowstone Lake. The steep, relentless climb through forest is exactly what the "moderately strenuous" rating promises. Most report the panoramic payoff is worth every breath.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 800 ft

Duration: 2-3 hours if you maintain steady pace; add 30 minutes for summit photos. The descent is tougher on your quads than the climb.

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous

Route Type: Lollipop loop

Surface: Rooty dirt trail through dense forest; steep scramble sections with loose footing near the summit.

Getting There

Trailhead: Pullout 1 mile south of Fishing Bridge Junction

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required.

Fees: $35 entrance fee (7-day private vehicle pass) or $20 per person on foot

Shuttle Available

Not required; drive directly to the trailhead pullout.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No; pets are not permitted

Biking: No; foot-traffic only

Trail Markers: Well-marked trail; the junction at mile 0.8 is clearly signed

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Dry trail; carry all water. No refill sources on route.

Shade: Dense forest shade for the first 1.5 miles; fully exposed at the summit

Cell Service: Unknown; plan for spotty or no coverage. Tell someone your timeline before starting.

Hazards:

Grizzly bears are active in this area—stay alert and make noise. The summit is exposed to weather; afternoon thunderstorms can develop rapidly. The descent puts stress on knees; footing can be uncertain in steep sections.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate-to-steady in summer; quieter in fall

Peak Times: Summer weekends (July-August) and midday hours (10 AM-4 PM)

Accessibility & Family

Family Notes:

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Are there really bears on this trail?

Yes. Grizzlies are active in this area. Make constant noise—talk, clap, carry bear spray if possible. Hike with at least one other person. Never solo in bear country.

Is 800 feet of elevation gain doable for an average hiker?

What's the toughest part?

Is this a solo-hike trail?

Can I bring my dog?

How much water do I need?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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