TrailAvalanche Peak Trailhead 5N2
4.5-mile out-and-back; 2,100 ft gain. Relentless climb with a true summit payoff.

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.
Easy Stroll to Technical Scramble (depending on route)
Wildlife-rich meadows along the Lamar River; potential wolf and bear sightings; expansive river corridor with mountain backdrop
• 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.
May–October
Shorter out-and-back sections are family-friendly, but bears and river crossings require supervision and hands-on guidance
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.
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.
No mandatory shuttle.
Travel in groups of 3+; carry bear spray; avoid river crossings after heavy rains; seek shelter during thunderstorms; wear sun protection
Shorter out-and-back sections are family-friendly, but bears and river crossings require supervision and hands-on guidance
Nearest potable water at Tower Junction; vault toilets at Stock Trailhead (0.25 miles west of the hiker's trailhead)
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.
Address
NE Entrance Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
Based on 132 Google reviews
Based on 132 guest reviews
" 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."
Eilish Wertheimer
So it's very nice, but I do feel Lamar Valley is overrated compared to other places in the park.. we went on early morning at sunrise, we heard the bark of the wolfs but didn't spotted them, we saw a loner bison but not nothing more, so compared to other places in the park I haven't find any more than other places
Dianna Willis
We had to hike uphill and off trail to avoid a lounging herd of bison. ( more than once) Not normally a hard hike, but we went uphill alot.
Saurabh Darekar
A nice trail with beautiful and peaceful background. People normally walk on the trail and go inside the jungle to see bears and wolves. There are warnings here for bear sighting, so be careful while roaming. Also the river is beautiful with small bridge. We spent some time here along the bridge, clicked photos. We enjoyed our time here.
Showing 3 of 132 reviews
Yes. Hike in groups of 3+ and carry bear spray; stay alert and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
No permit required for day hikes. Overnight camping, fishing, boating, or riding requires permits.
No. There is no potable water at the hiker's trailhead; nearest water source is Tower Junction.
No. A shuttle is not mandatory.
May through October offers the best conditions and wildlife opportunities; snow and storms can linger into late spring.
6 listings
4 listings
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