Gneiss Creek Trail: 13.9-Mile Point-to-Point Hike from Gneiss

Gneiss Creek road winds through forested canyons in Yellowstone National Park, offering a rugged roadside landscape.

Mission Brief: Gneiss Creek is a 13.9-mile point-to-point dirt trail with minimal vertical gain. It runs through backcountry terrain where bears, bison, and elk roam; creek crossings demand focus and proper footwear. Plan for a two-day backpack or a long day for fit hikers; bring water treatment and navigation gear. Hydration, bear safety, and shuttle logistics are non-negotiable.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 13.9
Route Type: Point-to-Point
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 200

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 13.9
Route Type: Point-to-Point
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 200
Estimated Time: Backpacking: ~2 days. Day hikers: time varies with how much of the trail you cover; plan for long day or overnight.
Trail Surface: Dirt; meadow and forest sections
Trail Features: Open meadows
Forest sections
Creek crossings
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Post-fire regeneration areas
Trail Highlights: Long dirt traverse with wildlife opportunities and evidence of 1988 fire regeneration; multiple creek crossings and open meadow sections for expansive travel

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Gneiss Creek Trailhead along Highway 191 (west boundary, ~9.7 miles from West Entrance on Route 19 toward Bozeman) OR Seven Mile Bridge Trailhead along West Entrance Road
Parking Lot Size: Limited parking at the Gneiss Creek Trailhead; no published capacity data.
Parking Fill Time: Parking tends to fill quickly on weekends and during peak season; plan to arrive early to secure a space.
Shuttle Required: 1
Shuttle Details: Coordinate shuttle between Gneiss Creek Trailhead and Seven Mile Bridge; plan for two-vehicle logistics if doing a one-way trip; arrange pickup at finish in advance

Permits & conditions

Permits Required: Yes
Permit Details: Overnight camping, fishing, boating, and riding require permits. For overnight camping, contact the Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160
Fees: Varies; backcountry permit costs not published
Trail Status: Open with bear area considerations
Seasonal Closures: Bear management area closure March 10 – June 30

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Creeks along the trail; water should be filtered or treated
Accessibility: Backcountry trail; rough, natural terrain

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Bear country
Creek crossings
Lightning exposure
Wildlife encounters (bison, elk, wolves)
Limited cell service
Hazard Details: Bear management area in northern sections; stay on designated trails during closure; keep 100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from large mammals; creek crossings can be high and slippery; thunderstorms demand quick descent from open areas and avoidance of tall isolated trees; cell service is unreliable
Cell Service: Dead zone in backcountry
Crowd Level: Lightly used
Peak Crowd Times: Early mornings and weekends in July–September
Best Season: July–September
Best Time To Visit: July–September after bear management area closure; dawn or dusk for wildlife opportunity; avoid spring mud around creek crossings.
Tips Advice: Carry 2 liters of water minimum
Filter water at creeks along the trail
Carry bear spray and know how to use it
Trekking poles help on creek crossings
Bring map/compass and navigation tools

More details

Park Area: Yellowstone National Park — Gneiss Creek area, western boundary near Highway 191 (Gallatin County, MT)
Trail Markers: Well-marked in places; carry map/compass; backcountry navigation advised
Dogs Allowed: No
Biking Allowed: No
Shade Level: Mixed; forested sections provide shade, open meadows are sun-exposed
Emergency Contacts: Yellowstone Backcountry Office: (307) 344-2160; Yellowstone General Information: (307) 344-2111; In emergencies dial 911
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Trail can be snow-covered in winter and early spring; winter variants exist for ski trails
Mud Season: Spring and fall around creek crossings
Wildflower Peak: July–August
Fall Colors Peak: Late September to early October
Bug Season: Summer; mosquitoes can be an issue; bring repellent
Insider Tips: Plan a shuttle or two-vehicle logistics for a one-way hike
Beware bear area closure window (Mar 10–Jun 30); adjust timing
Start early or late for wildlife activity; pack warm layers for morning/late day
Water filter and navigation tools are non-negotiable
Recent Updates: Bear area closure dates and backcountry permit updates; general trail maintenance notes available from NPS sources
Family Friendly Notes: Length and wildlife risk make it challenging for young children; better for experienced hikers or older, capable kids
Nearby Facilities: Closest services in West Yellowstone and Gardiner; no facilities along the trail
Review Summary: Hikers report a long, low-gain trek with ample wildlife opportunity and solitude; distance requires good endurance and solid navigation, especially with creek crossings and bear risk. Water treatment and bear safety are essential, and a shuttle is part of the logistics for a one-way plan.

Location

Photos

Gneiss Creek Trail near Yellowstone National Park follows a windy canyon road through pine forest under cloudy skies.

Gneiss Creek trail winds through a lush, sunlit meadow in Yellowstone National Park during a bright summer day.

Gneiss Creek boundary line marker at Yellowstone National Park, a weathered wooden post with autumn trees in the background.

Gneiss Creek landscape with pine forest and distant snow‑capped peaks in Yellowstone National Park.

Gneiss Creek area in Yellowstone National Park stretches across a grassy plain with distant snow-capped mountains and dramatic clouds.

Frequently asked questions

Are bears frequent on this trail?

Yes. Bears are present year-round; stay on designated trails, carry bear spray, and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.

Do I need a permit for day use?

Backcountry regulations apply; overnight camping, fishing, boating, and riding require permits. Day use may be subject to backcountry rules depending on season.

Is a dog allowed on this trail?

No. Dogs are not permitted on backcountry trails in Yellowstone.

Is cell service available along the trail?

No reliable service; treat as a dead zone and rely on navigation tools.

How do I get the backcountry permit?

Call the Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160 for overnight camping permits and regulations.