Trail

Old Lake Road Bike Trail

Trail
People enjoy the sunset from the shore of Yellowstone Lake.

A flat 2-mile round-trip lakeshore ride on an old roadbed with views of Yellowstone Lake. The terrain is easy—but this is grizzly country where black bears and grizzlies actively forage. You must carry bear spray, keep it accessible, and maintain 100 yards from any bear or wolf. Closed June; typically open mid-summer through fall.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
2
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
0

Trail profile

Distance Miles
2
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
0
Estimated Time
1–2 hours (depending on pace and stops for views)
Trail Surface
Old roadbed, packed dirt and gravel
Trail Features
  • Lakeshore riding
  • Yellowstone Lake views
  • Historic old roadbed
  • Flat terrain ideal for beginners
Trail Highlights
Unobstructed views of Yellowstone Lake along the shoreline from the historic roadbed.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Between Lake Hotel and Lake Junction on the old roadbed access
Shuttle Required
0

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permits required. Entry to Yellowstone requires a park entrance fee.
Fees
$35 entrance fee (private vehicle, 7-day pass); $20 per person by bicycle or foot (NPS as of 2026-06-12)
Trail Status
Open mid-summer through fall, weather dependent. Closed in June due to bear foraging activity.
Seasonal Closures
Closed June. Road access typically available mid-April through early November; bike trail specifically closes for bear activity.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
None on trail. Carry at least 2 liters. Fill up at Lake Hotel or Fishing Bridge Visitor Center area before the ride.
Accessibility
Fairly flat and wide roadbed, but narrow in sections. Hand-cycles are difficult. Wheelchair access is not viable.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Grizzly bear foraging
  • Black bear presence
  • Wolf encounters
  • Narrow trail with limited escape routes
  • Cliff edges near lakeshore
  • Exposed to weather
Hazard Details
This is active bear habitat. Black and grizzly bears forage here in summer and fall. Federal regulations mandate 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from bison. Trail is narrow with steep sections near the lake—limited room to maneuver if wildlife appears. Bear spray is mandatory, not optional.
Crowd Level
Moderate. This is the only bike trail in Yellowstone where leashed dogs are permitted, which attracts dog-owning cyclists.
Best Season
Summer, Fall
Best Time To Visit
Mid-July through September after June bear closure lifts. Start before 8 AM to avoid midday sun exposure and increased bear activity. Check Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for exact opening date each year—it varies.
Tips Advice
  • Carry bear spray on your hip belt—not in a backpack. Accessible in under 1 second.
  • Bring 2L water minimum (no water sources on this trail).
  • Make noise: talk, don't use headphones. Ring a bike bell every 50 yards.
  • Stay 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from bison.
  • Inspect your bike before the ride: flat tires kill you out here.
  • Ride in pairs or small groups, never solo.

More details

Park Area
Lake Village
Trail Markers
Moderate. The old roadbed is visible but transitions to the main road junction at mile 1. Bring written directions.
Dogs Allowed
Yes. Leashed pets only. This is the only bike trail in Yellowstone where leashed dogs are permitted.
Biking Allowed
Yes. Mountain biking is the designated activity.
Shade Level
Low. Open lakeshore with minimal tree cover. Sun exposure is continuous. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen.
Emergency Contacts
Fishing Bridge Visitor Center (check-in before riding). In emergency, use park radio or flag down a ranger vehicle.
Map Recommended
0
Snow Dates
Typically snow-free during operating season (mid-July through September)
Mud Season
Possible in early July after snowmelt; check conditions at Fishing Bridge Visitor Center.
Insider Tips
  • Check Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for exact opening date after June closure—it varies year to year.
  • Ride early morning to maximize daylight and minimize heat exposure.
  • Wear sunscreen; there's minimal shade on the lakeshore section.
  • The lake views are consistent the entire ride; don't wait for a 'hidden' payoff point.
  • If you see or hear a bear, back away slowly, make noise, and have bear spray ready.
  • Avoid dusk and dawn riding—peak bear activity times.
Recent Updates
Typically closed in June; opening date varies based on bear activity monitoring. Confirm status at the park website or Fishing Bridge Visitor Center before visiting.
Family Friendly Notes
Suitable for kids with basic biking skills if they can stay calm around wildlife. Adult supervision is mandatory. Kids must understand and follow the '100 yards from bears' rule. Consider the psychological burden: this is not a carefree family ride—children must stay alert.
Nearby Facilities
Lake Hotel (lodging and services), Fishing Bridge Visitor Center (ranger info, visitor services), supplies at Lake Junction area.
Review Summary
Cyclists praise this trail for its flatness and lake views, but emphasize the serious wildlife hazard. Riders consistently mention the bear spray requirement and the need for constant vigilance. Many note it's the perfect short ride for building biking confidence—as long as you respect the wildlife.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail safe for solo riders?

Technically yes, but risky. Riding in pairs or small groups is safer—if you're injured or need help deploying bear spray, backup matters. Solo riders must accept full responsibility for wildlife encounters.

Do I really need bear spray?

Yes. Non-negotiable. Federal regulations require it. Bears forage here in summer/fall. Bear spray is your only reliable defense if a bear charges. Know how to use it before the ride.

Can I ride with my dog?

Yes. Leashed pets only—this is the only Yellowstone bike trail where it's legal. Keep your dog close and calm. Dogs can trigger bear confrontations, so stay extra alert.

How hard is the climbing?

Zero climbing. It's flat the entire way. Perfect for beginners or recovering cyclists. The challenge is mental, not physical.

What if I encounter a bear?

Back away slowly toward the lakeshore if possible. Make noise. Keep bear spray accessible. Maintain 100 yards distance. Do NOT run. If the bear charges, use bear spray and call for help.

When is this trail closed?

June closure for bear foraging activity. Opening date varies. Check Fishing Bridge Visitor Center or the NPS website before visiting. Road access typically available mid-April through early November.

Is there water on the trail?

No. Carry at least 2 liters. Fill up at Lake Hotel or Fishing Bridge Visitor Center before the ride. Do not drink from the lake.

Brink of Lower Falls

0.7 miles out-and-back. Steep climb back. The brink of Lower Falls rewards the grit.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated June 2026. Report an issue.