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.

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

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.

Storm Point Trail - 2.3mi Easy Loop

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Distance

2.3 mi

Elevation Gain

150 ft

Est. Time

1-2 hours for most hikers; add 30 minutes if stopping for marmot viewing or photos

Route Type

Loop

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Summer through Fall (June-September optimal)

Overview

About This Trail

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.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Marmot viewing at Storm Point and peaceful shoreline walk along Yellowstone Lake with forest and meadow scenery

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.

Best Season to Hike

Summer through Fall (June-September optimal)

Hiking Tips

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.

Family Info

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.

What Hikers Say

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.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 2.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 150 ft

Duration: 1-2 hours for most hikers; add 30 minutes if stopping for marmot viewing or photos

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Packed dirt and grass in meadows, packed earth through lodgepole forest, rocky and uneven at Storm Point

Getting There

Trailhead: Indian Pond pullout, 3 miles east of Fishing Bridge Visitor Center

Fills Up: Moderate use; typically fills by mid-morning in July-August

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required for day hiking

Fees: $35 per vehicle (7-day park entrance pass)

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required. Self-parking at Indian Pond pullout.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No - pets are not permitted on park trails

Biking: No - foot traffic only

Trail Markers: Well marked with clear trail tread; difficult to get lost on this popular loop

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Yellowstone Lake and Indian Pond visible throughout. All water must be filtered or treated before drinking due to giardia risk.

Shade: Partial shade - full sun in meadow sections, forest coverage provides shade for approximately 50% of route

Cell Service: Spotty; intermittent signal. Not reliable for emergency calls away from main areas.

Hazards:

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.

Emergency: 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).

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate - popular with families and casual hikers but not a circus

Peak Times: July-August 9 AM-3 PM; avoid mid-day heat and crowds by starting early

Accessibility & Family

Family 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.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

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?

Do I need a map?

Can I bring my dog?

What's the water situation?

When should I avoid this trail?

Will I see marmots?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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