Trail

Sheepeater Ski Trail

Trail
Two skiers travel across a flat meadow with mountains in the distance.

The Sheepeater Ski Trail is a low-angle, 5-mile winter route ideal for introducing new skiers to backcountry travel. Gently rolling terrain (60 feet elevation) cuts through mixed forest and meadow with consistent views of Swan Lake Flats and the Gallatin Range. This is attainable skiing, not a lung-buster, but winter exposure is real—wind, cold, and possible whiteout demand proper layers and hydration discipline. Shuttle access from Mammoth Hot Springs means you don't exhaust yourself just getting there.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
5
Route Type
One-way (shuttle connects endpoints)
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
60

Trail profile

Distance Miles
5
Route Type
One-way (shuttle connects endpoints)
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
60
Estimated Time
2-3 hours
Trail Surface
Skier-tracked snow, interspersed forest and meadow
Trail Features
  • Swan Lake Flats meadow views
  • Gallatin Range vistas
  • Gardner River Canyon backdrop
  • Mixed forest and meadow terrain
  • Gently rolling topography
  • Bison and elk habitat
Trail Highlights
Sustained views of Swan Lake Flats and the Gallatin Range. Active wildlife spotting (bison, elk) if you stay alert and respect distance. Forested sections alternate with open meadow.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Sheepeater Cliffs picnic area (shuttle drop-off) or Bunsen Peak parking area on Swan Lake Flats; accessed via shuttle from Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel or Indian Creek Warming Hut
Shuttle Required
1
Shuttle Details
Shuttle reservations recommended. Shuttle stop from Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Shuttle also available from Indian Creek Warming Hut to Sheepeater Cliffs. Book in advance: Call 307-344-7311, toll-free 866-439-7375, TDD 304-344-5395, or reserve at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Shuttle often fills on weekends and holidays.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permits required.
Fees
$35 park entrance fee (private vehicle). No trail-specific fee. Shuttle service included with park entrance.
Trail Status
Typically open December through March, weather-dependent
Seasonal Closures
Closed April-November. Seasonal closure dates vary by snowfall and park road conditions.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
No reliable water sources on trail. Carry all water. Snow can be melted if necessary but not recommended as primary strategy.
Accessibility
Gently rolling terrain with minimal elevation gain (60 feet). Well-marked, skier-tracked trail. No steep sections. Accessible to intermediate skiers and snowshoers. Winter snow depth and ice conditions may limit access for those with mobility issues.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Bison and elk (frequent)
  • Bears and wolves (federal distance laws apply)
  • Winter exposure (cold, wind, whiteout)
  • Unstable hydrothermal ground in geothermal areas
  • Dehydration (winter masks thirst)
  • Hypothermia risk
Hazard Details
Bison and elk frequent this trail—federal law requires 25+ yards minimum distance. Bears and wolves demand 100+ yards. Ground is unstable in hydrothermal areas; stay on marked trail and boardwalks. Winter conditions (0–20°F typical, wind chills much lower) create exposure risk. Dehydration is lethal in winter because thirst isn't obvious.
Cell Service
No cell service expected. Carry emergency whistle and navigation tools.
Best Season
Winter (December-March)
Best Time To Visit
Early morning (6-8 AM) after fresh snow, when the trail is tracked smooth and light is optimal. February and March guarantee stable snow (December can be variable). Midweek offers solitude; weekends and holidays are busy. Call 307-344-7311 to confirm shuttle schedule and snow conditions.
Tips Advice
  • Hydration kills you in winter—you won't feel thirsty, but dehydration is fatal. Carry 2L minimum.
  • Make constant noise. Bison and elk don't retreat; they don't know you're coming. Carry a whistle.
  • Wear layers and shed immediately if you sweat. Cotton is death; use synthetics or merino.
  • Stay 100+ yards from bears/wolves, 25+ yards from bison and other wildlife. Federal law.
  • Check shuttle availability before you drive. Call ahead; don't show up and hope.
  • Bring map and compass. Trail markers hide under fresh snow; navigation skills are essential.
  • Trekking poles help in deep snow and provide stability on ice.

More details

Park Area
Mammoth Hot Springs Area
Trail Markers
Well-marked trail. Skier-tracked route shows the way. Trail markers may be difficult to spot in heavy snow.
Dogs Allowed
Only qualified service animals, leashed and under control at all times. Pets not permitted.
Biking Allowed
No. Winter ski trail only. Skis and snowshoes permitted.
Shade Level
Mixed. Forest cover provides partial shade and wind protection; open meadow sections offer less protection from exposure.
Emergency Contacts
For emergencies: 911 (if service available). Yellowstone Non-Emergency: 307-344-7711. Shuttle/Reservations: 307-344-7311, toll-free 866-439-7375, TDD 304-344-5395.
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
Typically open December through March. Exact season depends on snowfall, road conditions, and park closures. Call 307-344-7311 to confirm current conditions.
Mud Season
Not applicable. Winter ski trail only.
Wildflower Peak
Not applicable. Winter ski trail.
Fall Colors Peak
Not applicable. Winter ski trail.
Bug Season
Not applicable. Winter season eliminates insect pressure.
Insider Tips
  • Book shuttle well in advance (at least 1 day ahead, ideally 3+ days for weekends).
  • Arrive at the lot by 7 AM. Parking fills, and shuttle availability isn't guaranteed.
  • Check shuttle schedule and snow conditions by phone before driving (307-344-7311).
  • Layer aggressively and shed one layer immediately if you start sweating. Wet clothing kills you.
  • Make constant noise (talk, whistle, bells). Bison and elk don't retreat; they don't know you're coming.
  • Carry 2L water minimum. Winter dehydration is silent and deadly.
Family Friendly Notes
Easy terrain suitable for families. Shuttle reduces physical demand. Proper winter gear essential—cold exposure is real. Children must understand wildlife distance rules (25+ yards from bison/elk, 100+ yards from bears/wolves). Supervise closely in wildlife areas.
Review Summary
Skiers praise this easy, scenic winter route for its gentle terrain and Swan Lake views. The shuttle access appeals to those wanting winter skiing without the grind of a long climb. Bison spotting is common and rewarding if you respect distance and stay alert.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this as a beginner skier?

Yes, but with caveats. Terrain is easy (60 feet elevation over 5 miles), but winter conditions are unforgiving. You need basic ski or snowshoe skills and proper gear. If you've never done winter trail skiing, this is still achievable—shuttle access doesn't penalize you for a slower pace.

Is it safe to go alone?

Mostly yes if you follow protocol. Bison and elk frequent this area—stay 25+ yards away, make constant noise. Federal law requires 100+ yards from bears/wolves. No cell service; carry emergency whistle, map, and compass. If you're nervous about solo wildlife, bring a partner.

What gear do I actually need?

Winter ski or snowshoe setup, insulated boots, minimum 2+ insulating layers, wind-resistant parka, hat, goggles, sunscreen, 2L water, hand/toe warmers, emergency whistle, map, compass. Trekking poles help. Winter gear is not optional.

How long does this take?

2–3 hours per NPS estimate. Depends on snow condition, pace, and time spent wildlife spotting. Fresh snow = faster skiing. The shuttle saves your legs on the return.

Do I need to book the shuttle in advance?

Yes, especially December and weekends. Call 307-344-7311, toll-free 866-439-7375, or book at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Shuttle often fills; don't show up hoping for a spot.

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.