Old Canyon Bridge Ski Trail

A lone skier skies along the Old Canyon Bridge Ski Trial with the Chittenden Bridge seen through the

A flat, 1-mile winter ski route along the Yellowstone River in Canyon Village area. This is easiest-level terrain—no technical challenge. But don't mistake easy terrain for easy conditions. Winter exposure is real: cold, wind, and river proximity demand respect. You'll get beautiful canyon and river views if you come prepared.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 1
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easiest
Elevation Gain Feet: 0

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 1
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easiest
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
Trail Surface: Packed snow and ice in winter
Trail Features: Yellowstone River views
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone vistas
Forested terrain
Winter canyon landscape
Trail Highlights: Winter access to Yellowstone River and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone from an easiest-level ski route. Scenic river and canyon views without technical terrain demands.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Chittenden Bridge or near the entrance to the South Rim Drive, starting on the Brink of the Upper Falls overlook trail
Shuttle Required: 1
Shuttle Details: Skier shuttle reservations may be required to access this trail. Reservations available at park hotels or call 307-344-7311 (Toll-free: 866-439-7375, TDD: 304-344-5395)

Permits & conditions

Fees: No trail fees. Yellowstone entrance fee: $35/vehicle (7-day pass). Skier shuttle fees may apply.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter-only trail. Closed when snow melts (typically April-November). Spring closure depends on snowpack.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Bring all water. No potable water sources along the trail. Stay hydrated despite cold conditions—dehydration is silent and deadly in winter.
Accessibility: Flat terrain with minimal obstacles. Requires basic ski proficiency. Winter conditions (ice, packed snow) create navigation challenges. No steep grades or technical sections.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Cold exposure
Wind
Ice
Hypothermia risk
Slippery terrain
Hazard Details: Winter conditions create exposure risk: cold wind funneling through the canyon corridor, icy trail sections, river proximity, and high hypothermia risk if you get wet. Short daylight window amplifies getting-lost risk.
Best Season: Winter
Best Time To Visit: December to early March when snow is stable. Arrive mid-morning before short winter daylight fades. Check conditions before departure. Wind and temperature are worst in afternoon.
Tips Advice: Triple-layer winter system: base, insulation layer, wind-proof shell
Dehydration kills in winter—carry 2L minimum and drink constantly despite cold
Hand warmers in pockets, face protection for wind funneling through the canyon
Check avalanche forecast and snow stability before going
Wet gear equals hypothermia death trap; pack an emergency dry layer
Make noise for bears (mostly hibernating in winter)
Test ski binding release on flat ground before starting the trail

More details

Park Area: Canyon Village Area
Trail Markers: Well-worn, marked trail
Dogs Allowed: No. Pets are not permitted. Qualified service animals are welcome but must be leashed.
Biking Allowed: No. Winter ski trail only.
Shade Level: Mixed. Forested sections provide shelter from wind; canyon location can be exposed to wind gusts.
Emergency Contacts: Yellowstone emergency: 911. Park non-emergency: 307-344-7381. Reservations and park information: 307-344-7311.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: December through early March (weather and snowpack dependent)
Mud Season: Not applicable—winter-only trail
Wildflower Peak: Not applicable—winter-only trail
Fall Colors Peak: Not applicable—winter-only trail
Bug Season: Not applicable—winter-only trail
Insider Tips: Reserve shuttles early in peak winter months (January-February)—walk-ups fill fast
Soft snow is faster to ski than hard pack; wind-hardened ice requires grip
The river views are the payoff; don't rush; stop and observe the canyon
Start early to maximize daylight; winter sun sets fast, temperatures plummet at dusk
Check wind conditions before starting; canyon winds can be intense and dangerous
Family Friendly Notes: Good for families with skiing experience. Children must be comfortable on skis; this is not a learn-to-ski trail. Cold exposure risk—supervise young children closely, monitor for cold fatigue and signs of hypothermia.
Nearby Facilities: Canyon Village has lodging, food, and services. Nearest visitor information and warming facilities at Canyon area.
Review Summary: Beginner skiers and families with ski experience praise this trail for accessibility and river views. Winter conditions are the challenge, not terrain difficulty. Proper preparation—layers, hydration, timing—turns this into a reliable winter outing with good risk-to-reward ratio.