Lamar River Trailhead (3K1): 33-Mile Round Trip to Cold Creek,

Lamar River Trailhead in Yellowstone National Park winds along a rocky riverbank with distant mountains under a bright blue sky.

Your mission begins at Lamar River Trailhead 3K1. Hike an out-and-back that follows open meadows along the Lamar River, with an optional extension toward Specimen Ridge that can transform the day into a scramble. Wildlife is prolific and bison delays are possible; prepare for sun exposure and river crossings on connecting routes. Start early, bring 2–3 liters of water per person, and move with caution.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 33
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy Stroll to Technical Scramble (depending on route)
Elevation Gain Feet: 800

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 33
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy Stroll to Technical Scramble (depending on route)
Elevation Gain Feet: 800
Estimated Time: Core Lamar River segment ~3 hours; longer if extending via Specimen Ridge and wildlife delays.
Trail Surface: Mostly packed dirt and grassy meadows; some rougher sections after rain; river crossings required on connecting trails.
Trail Features: Abundant wildlife viewing (bison, wolves, bears, elk, pronghorn)
Lamar River meadows
River crossings on connecting routes
Specimen Ridge connection adds elevation and exposure
Trail Highlights: Wildlife-rich meadows along the Lamar River; potential wolf and bear sightings; expansive river corridor with mountain backdrop

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Lamar River Area, Yellowstone National Park. Trailhead 14.8 miles east of Tower Junction on Northeast Entrance Road (HWY 212). Search for 'Lamar River Trailhead 3K1'
Parking Lot Size: Large parking lot; can fill up, arrive early
Parking Fill Time: Full by sunrise during peak season
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No mandatory shuttle.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required: Yes
Permit Details: Overnight permits required; day hiking no permit. Overnight permits must be picked up in person within 48 hours of trip; some can be reserved by mail, fax, or in person.
Fees: Varies
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Snow can linger into late spring/early summer; mud season; weather can change rapidly

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Creeks present; filter water; carry 2–3 liters

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Grizzly bears in area
River crossings can be hazardous, especially before August
Lightning exposure during thunderstorms
Heat exposure in open meadows
Hazard Details: Travel in groups of 3+; carry bear spray; avoid river crossings after heavy rains; seek shelter during thunderstorms; wear sun protection
Cell Service: Limited cell service in Yellowstone; emergency calls only
Crowd Level: Can be crowded at the trailhead; the trail itself can offer solitude away from the lot
Peak Crowd Times: Peak crowds typically 7:00–9:00 AM during the May–October window
Best Season: May–October
Best Time To Visit: Begin at dawn. From May through October, conditions are clearest and wildlife viewing is strongest. Start early to stay cooler and avoid crowds.
Tips Advice: Carry 2–3 liters of water per person.
Hike in groups of 3+ and carry bear spray.
Start early to secure parking and maximize wildlife viewing.
Expect sun exposure; bring sun protection and layers.
Rivers crossings require caution; dry crossings preferred when water is high.

More details

Park Area: Yellowstone National Park — Lamar River Area, WY
Trail Markers: Well worn markers; bring a map
Dogs Allowed: Not allowed
Biking Allowed: Not allowed
Shade Level: Full sun exposure in open meadows
Emergency Contacts: Dial 911 for emergencies; Yellowstone National Park dispatch available
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Snow can linger into late spring/early summer
Mud Season: Spring melt can create muddy conditions
Wildflower Peak: Spring (April–June)
Bug Season: Bug spray recommended; insect activity in warmer months
Insider Tips: Strategy: For longer hikes, consider starting at the Specimen Ridge trailhead and finishing with the Lamar River Trail for a gradual ascent.
Timing: Start early for better wildlife sightings and to avoid midday storms.
Family: Shorter sections work for families, but bear awareness is mandatory.
Family Friendly Notes: Shorter out-and-back sections are family-friendly, but bears and river crossings require supervision and hands-on guidance
Nearby Facilities: Nearest potable water at Tower Junction; vault toilets at Stock Trailhead (0.25 miles west of the hiker's trailhead)
Review Summary: Hikers report wildlife-rich meadows and river scenery with strong payoff for those who commit to the long day. The route rewards patience with wildlife encounters but demands preparation for river crossings and bear awareness; arrive early to secure parking and reduce delays.