TrailAvalanche Peak Trailhead 5N2
4.5-mile out-and-back; 2,100 ft gain. Relentless climb with a true summit payoff.

13.9 miles one-way through open valleys with a relatively flat grade. Endurance is the name of the game, and wildlife presence keeps you alert. Prepare with bear spray, water, and a planned shuttle or two-car system to complete the route safely.
Moderate
Open valleys with wildlife sightings in a long-distance hike; early light yields better wildlife photography and solitude
• Start before sunrise to catch wildlife and avoid heat • Carry bear spray and know how to deploy • Trekking poles help at river crossings and stability • Filter water from creeks; carry extra water • Coordinate a shuttle or two-car plan for the one-way hike
Summer and early fall (July–September)
Not recommended for young children due to bear country and potential river crossings
A long, relatively flat one-way route with abundant wildlife opportunities and constant bear awareness. Endurance is the core requirement, with limited cell service adding to the challenge. Proper planning for permits and a shuttle is critical for a safe through-hike.
Backcountry camping permits required year-round via Recreation.gov; for other permits contact Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160
Plan a shuttle or two-car drop-off for the one-way hike; coordinate in advance
Northern stretch is a bear management area; off-trail travel restricted Mar 10–Jun 30; river crossings can be swift and cold
Rugged; not wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for young children due to bear country and potential river crossings
Nearest services in West Yellowstone or Gardiner; trailhead lacks facilities
A long, relatively flat one-way route with abundant wildlife opportunities and constant bear awareness. Endurance is the core requirement, with limited cell service adding to the challenge. Proper planning for permits and a shuttle is critical for a safe through-hike.
Based on 17 Google reviews
Based on 17 guest reviews
" A long, relatively flat one-way route with abundant wildlife opportunities and constant bear awareness. Endurance is the core requirement, with limited cell service adding to the challenge. Proper planning for permits and a shuttle is critical for a safe through-hike."
Showing 1 of 17 reviews
Yes. It’s bear country; carry bear spray, make noise, travel in groups, and follow safety protocols.
Backcountry camping permits are required for overnight stays and some activities; day hiking may not require a permit, but verify with the Backcountry Office.
Very limited; expect spotty to no service on most portions; Verizon may be strongest near developed areas.
Estimate 6–8 hours for most hikers, depending on pace and stops.
Not mandatory, but essential for a safe one-way hike; arrange a shuttle or two-car plan in advance.
6 listings
4 listings
Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →
We use basic, essential analytics to measure traffic. You can also allow deeper first-party analytics that help us improve our park guides. We never sell your data. Learn more
We use basic, essential analytics to measure traffic, plus optional deeper analytics to improve our park guides. We never sell your data. Choose what you allow. Learn more
Essential analytics that measure basic traffic stay on. The deeper, first-party analytics below are optional — turn on what you are comfortable with. We never sell your data. Read the notice
Site function plus basic visit counts via Google Analytics and Search Console — needed to see how many people visit. Always on.
How far you scroll, whether you finish an article, and which sections are read — so we know which guides to improve.
Clicks on links and buttons, and searches you run on the site — so we can fix confusing navigation and content gaps.