Trail

Storm Point Trail

Trail
A hiker walks across a rocky outcropping above a large lake.

This easy 2.3-mile loop connects meadow views of Indian Pond with the rocky headland of Storm Point on Yellowstone Lake. You'll pass through lodgepole forest and open grassland, with good odds of spotting yellow-bellied marmots around the rocky outcrop. Verdict: solid morning hike for all fitness levels—just confirm with Fishing Bridge Visitor Center that the trail isn't closed due to bear activity (common in late spring). The payoff is a peaceful walk with scenic lake and mountain views, doable in 1-2 hours.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
2.3
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
150

Trail profile

Distance Miles
2.3
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
150
Estimated Time
1-2 hours for most hikers; add 30 minutes if stopping for marmot viewing or photos
Trail Surface
Packed dirt and grass in meadows, packed earth through lodgepole forest, rocky and uneven at Storm Point
Trail Features
  • Meadow overlooks
  • Indian Pond views
  • Yellowstone Lake shoreline
  • Rocky Storm Point
  • Lodgepole forest
  • Yellow-bellied marmot colony
Trail Highlights
Marmot viewing at Storm Point and peaceful shoreline walk along Yellowstone Lake with forest and meadow scenery

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Indian Pond pullout, 3 miles east of Fishing Bridge Visitor Center
Parking Fill Time
Moderate use; typically fills by mid-morning in July-August
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No shuttle required. Self-parking at Indian Pond pullout.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permits required for day hiking
Fees
$35 per vehicle (7-day park entrance pass)
Trail Status
Typically open summer-fall; subject to closures in late spring and early summer due to bear activity
Seasonal Closures
Often closed May through mid-June due to bear activity. Trail typically snow-free June through October. Winter road closures limit access November-April.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
Yellowstone Lake and Indian Pond visible throughout. All water must be filtered or treated before drinking due to giardia risk.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Bear activity
  • Exposure in meadows
  • Cold water
  • Uneven rocky terrain at point
  • Wind at exposed headland
Hazard Details
Bear country requires constant noise and vigilance. Trail frequently closes May-June due to bear activity. No shelter in meadow sections. Rocky point has loose stones and minor drop-offs to water; watch children closely.
Cell Service
Spotty; intermittent signal. Not reliable for emergency calls away from main areas.
Crowd Level
Moderate - popular with families and casual hikers but not a circus
Peak Crowd Times
July-August 9 AM-3 PM; avoid mid-day heat and crowds by starting early
Best Season
Summer through Fall (June-September optimal)
Best Time To Visit
June through September for reliable access. Start by 8 AM in mid-summer to beat heat and wildlife activity. Afternoon winds pick up around the exposed rocky point.
Tips Advice
  • Make noise constantly—talk, clap, carry a whistle. You're in active bear country.
  • Carry at least 2 liters of water. Yellowstone Lake is visible, but never drink untreated water.
  • Confirm trail closure status at Fishing Bridge Visitor Center before starting.
  • Stay on marked trail, especially at Storm Point where rocks meet drop-offs.
  • Wear sun protection—meadow sections have zero shade in mid-day sun.
  • Sturdy boots with good ankle support for rocky terrain at the point.

More details

Park Area
Central Yellowstone, near Fishing Bridge
Trail Markers
Well marked with clear trail tread; difficult to get lost on this popular loop
Dogs Allowed
No - pets are not permitted on park trails
Biking Allowed
No - foot traffic only
Shade Level
Partial shade - full sun in meadow sections, forest coverage provides shade for approximately 50% of route
Emergency Contacts
Fishing Bridge Visitor Center (3 miles away): check on arrival for latest conditions. Park rangers on patrol. Call 911 in emergencies (best signal at visitor center).
Map Recommended
0
Snow Dates
Trail typically snow-free June through October; winter conditions can close road access to trailhead November-April
Mud Season
Spring snowmelt (April-May) creates muddy sections; trail often closed due to bear activity during this period
Wildflower Peak
June-July in meadow areas; peak bloom depends on snowmelt timing
Fall Colors Peak
Mid-September through early October for lodgepole forest color
Bug Season
Mosquitoes peak July-August in forest and meadow sections; bring insect repellent
Insider Tips
  • The forest canopy on the west side of the loop is your best wildlife viewing zone—move slowly, watch edges.
  • Marmots at Storm Point are most active in morning; return by noon if wildlife viewing is your goal.
  • The loop can be done either direction; clockwise from parking is slightly more direct to Storm Point.
  • Summer afternoons bring wind at the point—it's brief but it kicks. Go early.
  • Check recent trip reports or ask Fishing Bridge Visitor Center about recent bear sightings.
Family Friendly Notes
Good for kids of most ages; easy distance and terrain. Ensure kids stay close in bear country. Watch children around lake edges and rocky point. Consider younger children's pace when timing the hike.
Nearby Facilities
Fishing Bridge Visitor Center and services are 3 miles away. No facilities at Indian Pond pullout.
Review Summary
Hikers consistently report this as a reliable easy loop with good wildlife viewing and scenic lake views. Main feedback: spring bear closures are frequent and necessary for safety. Those visiting outside prime summer should call ahead to confirm access.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail safe with bears?

Yes, if you follow protocol. You're in bear country—make constant noise, hike in groups, never approach wildlife. Trail is often closed May-June when bears are most active. Check Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for closure status. No bear encounters reported on well-managed hikes with proper noise discipline.

Is the trail difficult for beginners?

No. It's rated Easy with minimal elevation gain and clear markings. The 2.3-mile loop is doable for any fitness level in 1-2 hours. Kids as young as 5-6 have completed this if they're used to casual walking.

Do I need a map?

The loop is well-marked and difficult to get lost on, but a map helps you understand your location and spot marmot hotspots. Use the free NPS map from the visitor center or download an offline map before starting.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Pets are not permitted on Yellowstone trails. The Fishing Bridge area has pet-friendly accommodations and kennel services if staying overnight.

What's the water situation?

Yellowstone Lake and Indian Pond are visible throughout, but don't drink untreated water due to giardia risk. Carry 2 liters minimum. Treat any lake water with a filter, purification tablets, or boil if necessary.

When should I avoid this trail?

May through early June due to bear activity closures. Avoid peak midday heat and crowds by starting by 8 AM. Winter snows close road access, typically November through April.

Will I see marmots?

Yes, most likely—there's a large colony at Storm Point. They're most active in morning hours and early afternoon. Sit quietly near the rocky area and watch.

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.