Refuge Point Trailhead

Refuge Point Trailhead view along a verdant river valley in Yellowstone National Park with rugged mountains in the distance.

Two route options: a 1.5-mile out-and-back to the overlook, or a 2.5-mile loop. The terrain includes gentle rolling hills with mixed tree cover, exposing sun in spots. From the overlook and along the loop you can see Earthquake Lake, the Ghost Village remnants of Halford Camp, and the Madison Range. Bring enough water and begin during daylight to maintain a steady pace.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 2.5
Route Type: Out-and-back; Loop
Difficulty Level: Moderately challenging
Elevation Gain Feet: 300

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 2.5
Route Type: Out-and-back; Loop
Difficulty Level: Moderately challenging
Elevation Gain Feet: 300
Estimated Time: About 3 hours for the 1.5-mile out-and-back; the 2.5-mile loop will take longer depending on pace.
Trail Surface: Rolling dirt/grass surface; summer is a hiking/biking trail; winter ungroomed for skiing/snowshoeing.
Trail Features: Earthquake Lake overlook
Ghost Village remains of Halford Camp
Madison Range vistas
Trail Highlights: Earthquake Lake overlook and Ghost Village remains; strong tie-in to the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake and local history.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Trailhead off Highway 287, 23 miles northwest of West Yellowstone, MT.
Parking Lot Size: Parking is available along Highway 287 near the Refuge Point Trailhead. There is no published formal lot size or capacity.
Parking Fill Time: No published data on parking fill times; availability will vary by season and day.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Guided hike option meets at Hebgen Lake Ranger District and caravans to Refuge Point Trailhead.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: Not required for day use; verify on-site if plans change.
Fees: Varies
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter conditions may close portions of the route; check conditions before you go.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Dry trail; carry ample water.
Accessibility: Not documented

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Rock/earthquake-area remnants
Open exposure to sun and wind
Wildlife in the broader Yellowstone area
Weather changes and trail conditions
Hazard Details: Historic earthquake area may present loose rock near Halford Camp; open slopes can lead to sun exposure; carry sun protection and watch footing.
Cell Service: Cell service in this area isn't documented; expect limited connectivity in the Hebgen Lake vicinity.
Crowd Level: Solitude, especially in winter.
Peak Crowd Times: Overall, crowds are light. Winter visits tend to be solitary; other seasons may see a few hikers or snowshoers on busier days.
Best Season: Summer (hiking/biking); Winter (snowshoeing/skiing).
Best Time To Visit: Summer for hiking and biking; Winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Tips Advice: Carry at least 2L water; no reliable on-trail sources.
Use trekking poles on rolling sections; they help your knees.
Start in daylight; check winter conditions before you go.
Layer up; sun exposure adds up on open sections.
Tread lightly and pack out what you pack in.

More details

Park Area: Yellowstone National Park, Hebgen Lake area, Montana
Trail Markers: Main trails are signposted; carry a map and be prepared for navigation.
Dogs Allowed: Leashed dogs allowed.
Biking Allowed: Yes (summer); trail supports biking in season.
Shade Level: Partial shade; open exposure at viewpoints.
Emergency Contacts: Yellowstone National Park emergency services; dial 911 for emergencies; Park Dispatch within Yellowstone.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Winter months; snowshoeing and skiing available.
Mud Season: Not documented
Wildflower Peak: Not documented
Fall Colors Peak: Not documented
Bug Season: Not documented
Insider Tips: For a quick experience, choose the 1.5-mile out-and-back.
In winter, expect a quiet, snowshoe-friendly environment with light crowds.
Bring trekking poles for the rolling terrain; hydrate early and often.
Arrive during daylight and check conditions if snow is present.
Recent Updates: Not documented
Family Friendly Notes: 1.5-mile out-and-back is kid-friendly; keep to the main path with children.
Nearby Facilities: Parking off Highway 287; restrooms not documented; no explicit water points along the trail.
Review Summary: Hikers value the Earthquake Lake overlook, the Ghost Village remnants, and the quiet atmosphere, particularly in winter. The 1.5-mile option suits families and beginners, while the 2.5-mile loop adds a steady challenge for moderate hikers.

Location

Photos

Refuge Point Trailhead overlook in Yellowstone National Park shows sunlit meadow, sagebrush, pines, and distant blue mountains.

Refuge Point Trailhead in Yellowstone National Park amid sunny hillside, wildflowers, and distant snow-capped peaks.

Refuge Point Trailhead signboard in Yellowstone National Park, with green grasses and pine trees in the background.

Refuge Point Trailhead sign and snowshoe/ski trail markers at Yellowstone National Park, with day-use area signage nearby.

Frequently asked questions

Are dogs allowed on Refuge Point Trailhead?

Leashed dogs are permitted on the Refuge Point routes.

Is there water along the trail?

No reliable water sources are noted along the route; carry sufficient water for your trip.

How long does it take to complete the trails?

The 1.5-mile out-and-back typically takes around 2-3 hours depending on pace; the 2.5-mile loop will take longer, especially with stops to view Earthquake Lake and Ghost Village.

Do I need a permit for day-use?

No permit is documented as required for day-use on this trail; verify with the park if plans change.

What should I bring for winter visits?

Snowshoes or cross-country skis for winter; carry traction devices, extra layers, and a map; daylight is shorter, so plan accordingly.