Trail

Riverside Bike Trail

Trail
Purple, pink, and orange are cast across the sky and reflect in the slowly moving water of a river.

A short, flat bike ride along a deteriorating road to Madison River access. Grizzly and black bears frequent this area—make noise and carry spray. The 1.4-mile route is suitable for mountain bikes and takes 1-2 hours round-trip. Plan to arrive early before afternoon heat.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
1.4
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
0

Trail profile

Distance Miles
1.4
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
0
Estimated Time
1-2 hours
Trail Surface
Deteriorating asphalt and gravel road
Trail Features
  • Madison River access
  • Level terrain
  • Meadow landscape
Trail Highlights
Direct access to Madison River with opportunities for wildlife viewing

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Just north of the main Grand Loop Road near West Entrance
Shuttle Required
0

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permits required
Fees
$35 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (valid 7 consecutive days). No additional trail fees.
Trail Status
Open (seasonal)
Seasonal Closures
Typically closed November through mid-April when West Entrance roads are closed to wheeled traffic. Winter access may be available via snowmobile or snowcoach.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
Madison River accessible at trail end. Water must be filtered or purified. Carry adequate water from outside the park—no reliable sources at trailhead.
Accessibility
Flat terrain suitable for hand-cycles with mountain bike tires. Surface is deteriorating asphalt, creating handling challenges. NPS notes hand-cycle accessibility.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Grizzly bears
  • Black bears
  • Deteriorating road surface
  • Heat exposure
  • Traffic noise from main road
Hazard Details
Black and grizzly bears active in this area. Surface is deteriorating asphalt with loose gravel sections, creating puncture and handling risks. Limited shade and water make heat exhaustion a real threat.
Crowd Level
Light to moderate
Peak Crowd Times
Summer weekends and July–August
Best Season
Summer and Fall
Best Time To Visit
Summer and fall (June–October) when park roads are open. Arrive by 9 AM to beat afternoon heat and traffic. Mid-week mornings offer fewer crowds and better wildlife spotting.
Tips Advice
  • Carry minimum 2L water—no reliable sources until the river.
  • Mountain bikes only; road bikes will struggle on gravel.
  • Bring bear spray and make noise constantly.
  • Start before 9 AM to avoid afternoon sun.
  • Check West Entrance road conditions before visiting.

More details

Park Area
West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park
Trail Markers
Trail is well-marked as part of the park's main trail system near West Entrance.
Dogs Allowed
No. Service dogs permitted in backcountry only, but NPS notes increased risk of wildlife confrontations with service animals present.
Biking Allowed
Yes. Mountain bikes recommended on gravel and deteriorating asphalt sections.
Shade Level
Exposed. Trail parallels the main road with minimal tree cover. Sun protection essential in summer.
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
November through mid-April. Heavy snow typically closes West Entrance wheeled-vehicle access mid-November; check NPS road status before visiting.
Mud Season
April–May during spring snowmelt—trail may be muddy or inaccessible.
Fall Colors Peak
September to early October
Bug Season
June–August, particularly July when mosquitoes are heaviest.
Insider Tips
  • The trail parallels the main road—traffic noise is constant, not a wilderness experience.
  • Best conditions on weekday mornings when traffic is lightest.
  • River access points are unmarked; explore the terminus carefully.
  • Deteriorating surface means watch your line—puncture-proof tires recommended.
Family Friendly Notes
Flat and short enough for families with confident young riders. However, close adult supervision required due to bear presence and road traffic noise. Children must understand bear safety protocols.
Review Summary
Riders appreciate the flat, accessible route and river views. The deteriorating surface and constant bear warnings keep expectations realistic. Most report the 1-2 hour time estimate is accurate for a casual pace.

Frequently asked questions

Are bears really a threat on a 1.4-mile trail?

Yes. Black and grizzly bears are active here year-round. Make noise constantly, carry bear spray, and travel in groups. Never ride alone.

Is this suitable for kids?

Depends on the kid. Flat and short, yes. But they need strong bike skills and must understand bear danger. Close supervision mandatory.

What kind of bike do I need?

Mountain bikes are recommended. The gravel and deteriorating surface will flat a road bike quickly.

Can I bring my dog?

No, unless it's a service dog. But NPS warns service animals increase wildlife confrontation risk.

How hard is the ride?

Zero elevation gain, so easy physically. The challenge is heat management and staying alert for bears.

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.