Elephant Back Mountain Trail

A hiker looks down from a vantage point across a forest to a large lake.

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 3.5
Route Type: Lollipop loop
Difficulty Level: Moderately strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 800

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 3.5
Route Type: Lollipop loop
Difficulty Level: Moderately strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 800
Estimated 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.
Trail Surface: Rooty dirt trail through dense forest; steep scramble sections with loose footing near the summit.
Trail Features: Panoramic views of Yellowstone Lake
Dense lodgepole forest
Summit overlook
360-degree landscape vistas
Trail Highlights: Panoramic views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding area from the summit overlook

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Pullout 1 mile south of Fishing Bridge Junction
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not required; drive directly to the trailhead pullout.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required.
Fees: $35 entrance fee (7-day private vehicle pass) or $20 per person on foot
Trail Status: Open seasonally, typically June through October weather permitting
Seasonal Closures: Winter closure (November-May) due to heavy snow and weather conditions

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Dry trail; carry all water. No refill sources on route.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Grizzly bears
Exposure at summit
Steep terrain
Rapid weather changes
Altitude
Hazard Details: 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.
Cell Service: Unknown; plan for spotty or no coverage. Tell someone your timeline before starting.
Crowd Level: Moderate-to-steady in summer; quieter in fall
Peak Crowd Times: Summer weekends (July-August) and midday hours (10 AM-4 PM)
Best Season: Summer and Fall
Best Time To Visit: Start by 6:00 AM in summer (June-August) to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. Fall (September-October) offers cooler conditions and less traffic. Afternoon thunderstorms can develop rapidly in summer—finish by early afternoon.
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: Lake Village
Trail Markers: Well-marked trail; the junction at mile 0.8 is clearly signed
Dogs Allowed: No; pets are not permitted
Biking Allowed: No; foot-traffic only
Shade Level: Dense forest shade for the first 1.5 miles; fully exposed at the summit
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: November through May; trail typically snow-covered and inaccessible
Mud Season: May through early June; spring snowmelt creates muddy conditions
Fall Colors Peak: Late August through September; lodgepole forest turns golden
Bug Season: June-August; mosquitoes are heavy in forest sections
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.
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
Review Summary: 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.

Frequently asked questions

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?

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.

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.

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.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Pets are not permitted on this trail.

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.