Mallard Lake Ski Trail

A lone skier breaks trail along the Mallard Lake Trail in the forested section near the trailhead.

Mallard Lake Ski Trail is a 6.8-mile round-trip ski route reserved for advanced skiers willing to climb 760 feet through steep, forested terrain to reach views of Mallard Lake. The climb is relentless, with narrow sidehills and exposed sections where avalanches are a real threat—especially in icy conditions. Bison and elk frequent the route; you'll share the corridor with wildlife that demands distance and respect. This is not a beginner's tour; it's a technical winter ascent.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 6.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Lung buster—steep grades, advanced skiers only
Elevation Gain Feet: 760

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 6.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Lung buster—steep grades, advanced skiers only
Elevation Gain Feet: 760
Estimated Time: 5-6 hours depending on fitness, snow conditions, and wildlife encounters. Descent takes less time than the climb.
Trail Surface: Skier-tracked through forest and open slopes. Steep pitches, some sidehills, and mixed surfaces from packed snow to loose powder.
Trail Features: Steep forest ascent
Firehole River crossing
Views of Mallard Lake
Hydrothermal features (stay on trail)
Wildlife corridors
Trail Highlights: Panoramic views of Mallard Lake reward the steep climb. The route threads through hydrothermal zones where unstable ground is a hazard—enforces discipline and respect for the terrain.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Begins near Snow Lodge; follow the trail marked toward Mallard Lake and Kepler Cascades, crossing the Firehole River bridge.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not required. Drive to Snow Lodge parking area.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: Service animals require a backcountry access permit; general skiers do not.
Fees: $35 park entrance fee (private vehicle, 7-day pass). Per-person entry (16+): $20.
Trail Status: Open during winter ski season (typically December–March, weather-dependent).
Seasonal Closures: Closed or inaccessible most of the year. Winter-only trail, dependent on snow depth and avalanche conditions.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: None. Carry 3L minimum; the trail has no reliable water sources in winter.
Accessibility: Steep, technical terrain with 760ft elevation gain. Sidehills and exposed sections demand advanced ski technique. Not accessible to inexperienced or adaptive skiers.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Avalanche risk
Steep terrain
Icy conditions
Exposure to wind
Wildlife (bison, elk, bears, wolves)
Unstable hydrothermal ground
Falls from icy sidehills
Hazard Details: Avalanche risk is real, especially in icy or heavily loaded snow. Steep sidehills present fall hazards. Bison and elk frequent the corridor—maintain 25 yards minimum; bears and wolves require 100 yards. Hydrothermal ground is unstable and can collapse; stay on the designated trail.
Cell Service: Unreliable to absent. Assume no signal.
Crowd Level: Ghost town compared to summer trails. Most visitors avoid winter ski routes; you'll share the corridor primarily with locals and serious skiers.
Peak Crowd Times: Weekends during peak winter (December–January holidays) see the most traffic; still light compared to summer.
Best Season: Winter
Best Time To Visit: Mid-January through February when snow is stable and avalanche risk is lower. Avoid early season (spotty snow, icy patches) and spring melt. Start by dawn to finish before afternoon sun destabilizes the snowpack.
Tips Advice: Carry 3L minimum; dehydration kills in winter.
Trekking poles and solid boot technique are mandatory.
Bring an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel if avalanche-trained.
Make noise constantly; you're in bison and elk country.
If snow is icy or slushy, skip it—too dangerous.
Dress in layers—you'll overheat on the climb, freeze on descent.

More details

Park Area: Old Faithful Area
Trail Markers: Skier-tracked and established; well-worn route marks the way. Navigation is clear in good visibility but difficult in whiteout conditions.
Dogs Allowed: No pets. Service animals only with backcountry access permit (must be under control).
Biking Allowed: No. Ski and snowshoe only.
Shade Level: Forested sections provide intermittent shade; open slopes expose you fully to sun and wind. Sun reflection off snow intensifies UV exposure.
Emergency Contacts: Yellowstone Park Rangers: 307-344-2638. In emergencies, use satellite communicator or signal for help.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Skiable typically December through March, dependent on snow depth and conditions. Early season may have patchy coverage; late season risks slush and avalanche instability.
Mud Season: Not applicable; winter ski trail.
Wildflower Peak: Not applicable; winter ski trail.
Fall Colors Peak: Not applicable; winter ski trail.
Bug Season: Not applicable; winter ski trail.
Insider Tips: The false climb at Mile 2 will mock you. Keep going—the real summit is at Mallard Lake.
Descent management is the battle. Use tight telemarks or short turns; runaway speeds kill.
Avalanche risk peaks after new snow or wind-loading. Check conditions with the ranger station before you go.
Sunrise pushes give you stable morning snow and psychological edge.
Recent Updates: Check NPS.gov regularly for trail conditions, avalanche forecasts, and closures related to wildlife activity or hazards.
Family Friendly Notes: This is not a family trail. Steep grades, avalanche exposure, and wildlife hazards make it dangerous for children and novice skiers. Advanced skiers only—no exceptions.
Nearby Facilities: Snow Lodge provides base camp with lodging, food, and warmth. Old Faithful area has visitor services. Cell service is unreliable; stock supplies before departure.
Review Summary: Experienced skiers praise the Mallard Lake route for its remote feel and dramatic views, but consistently warn about the steep grind and avalanche exposure. Those who skied it in poor conditions report icy patches and hazardous descents. The consensus: respect the mountain.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail safe?

Only for advanced skiers. Avalanche risk, steep terrain, and icy conditions demand experience and respect. Check conditions with rangers before you go. Unskilled skiers should not attempt this route.

Do I need special gear or training?

Avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel are strongly recommended if avalanche-trained. At minimum, bring trekking poles and wear insulated, moisture-wicking layers. Avalanche training is not optional if you want to ski this safely.

Can I do this solo?

Not recommended. Solo travel in avalanche terrain is high-risk. If you go alone, you're betting your life on a single bad decision. Ski with a partner who carries rescue gear and knows how to use it.

What if I encounter wildlife?

Bison and elk frequent this trail. Maintain 25 yards minimum; they are unpredictable and will charge if threatened. Make noise as you travel. If you see bears or wolves, back away and increase distance to 100 yards.

How long will the climb take me?

5–6 hours round-trip for fit skiers in good conditions. Fatigue and poor snow slow that down significantly. Expect the descent to take 1–2 hours if you're cautious and take measured turns.