Sunlight Sports

8 miles out-and-back. Moderate workout with a final saddle push. Bear country ahead.

Insider tip

Weekdays avoid ATV traffic on Sunlight Basin Road.

Insider tip

Plan 2 hours for the drive from Cody and allow extra time for road conditions.

When to come

Weekdays are best to dodge weekend ATV traffic on Sunlight Basin Road; plan for roughly a 2-hour drive from Cody and start early to maximize daylight.

Trail

Trail★ 4.8

From Little Sunlight Campground, the Sunlight Sports trail runs about 8 miles round-trip with an initial uphill and a final push to a saddle. The route traverses old forests, ridgelines, and meadows with some indistinct sections. It remains a moderate workout, but sustained elevation changes and rough patches demand grit; bear country requires vigilance. Plan 4-6 hours for a steady pace with breaks as needed.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
8
Route Type
Out-and-back with loop
Difficulty Level
Moderate Workout
Elevation Gain Feet
900

Trail profile

Distance Miles
8
Route Type
Out-and-back with loop
Difficulty Level
Moderate Workout
Elevation Gain Feet
900
Estimated Time
4-6 hours
Trail Surface
Mixed terrain: old forests, ridgelines, meadows
Trail Features
  • Old forest
  • Ridgelines
  • Meadows
  • Creek crossings
Trail Highlights
Ridgeline and meadow traverses; wildlife sightings possible along the route

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Little Sunlight Campground
Parking Lot Size
Large parking area near horse corrals
Parking Fill Time
Weekends busy; full by late morning; weekdays recommended
Shuttle Required
No
Shuttle Details
No shuttle service mentioned

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
No
Permit Details
No permit required for day use
Fees
Varies
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Mud season on Sunlight Basin Road; snow dates not specified

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
No
Water Sources
Little Sunlight Creek crossings; filter if used; carry 3L

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Grizzly bear habitat
  • Indistinct trail sections
  • Slick rocks when wet
  • Creek crossings
  • Heat exposure
Hazard Details
Carry bear spray; travel in groups; stay to established sections; watch footing near creeks
Crowd Level
Busy on weekends; weekdays quieter
Peak Crowd Times
Weekends, mid-morning
Best Season
Summer and Fall
Best Time To Visit
Weekdays are best to dodge weekend ATV traffic on Sunlight Basin Road; plan for roughly a 2-hour drive from Cody and start early to maximize daylight.
Tips Advice
  • Carry 3L water minimum.
  • Bear spray and loud communication are mandatory in bear habitat.
  • Trekking poles help on uphill and downhill sections.
  • Filter Little Sunlight Creek if you use it; otherwise plan to carry all water.
  • Start cold and settle into a steady pace; conserve energy for the saddle.

More details

Park Area
Yellowstone National Park, Sunlight Basin region
Trail Markers
Indistinct in places; bring map and compass
Shade Level
Mixed; shade in forests, sun on ridgelines
Emergency Contacts
Yellowstone rangers dispatch; local Cody emergency services
Map Recommended
Yes
Mud Season
Spring
Insider Tips
  • Weekdays avoid ATV traffic on Sunlight Basin Road.
  • Plan 2 hours for the drive from Cody and allow extra time for road conditions.
  • Bear spray is recommended; travel in groups and stay loud.
  • Start early or late in the day for wildlife opportunities and lighting.
Family Friendly Notes
Moderate difficulty; suitable for families prepared for uphill sections and varied terrain
Nearby Facilities
Facilities near Little Sunlight Campground; restrooms not confirmed at trailhead
Review Summary
Hikers report a steady moderate workout with a mix of uphill, rolling terrain, and a final saddle push. Terrain varies between forests, ridgelines, and meadows with potential wildlife sightings; road traffic on weekends can be heavy. Plan ahead for water and bear safety, especially on sun-exposed sections.

Location

Rocky trail surface composed of smooth dark pebbles along a Yellowstone National Park path.Inside a large outfitter store in Yellowstone National Park, rows of clothing and camping gear line the aisles.Yellowstone National Park shop interior featuring a vintage red tracked vehicle display.Sunlight Sports storefront along Yellowstone National Park’s corridor offering outdoor gear, camping supplies, and ski equipment.

Frequently asked questions

Are there bears on this trail?

Yes. This area is grizzly habitat; carry bear spray, stay loud, travel in groups, and be prepared to alter plans if wildlife appears.

Is there parking near the trailhead?

Yes. A large lot sits near the horse corrals at Little Sunlight Campground.

Do I need a permit for day hiking?

No permit is required for day use on this trail.

Is there a restroom at the trailhead?

Restroom availability is not confirmed; plan accordingly.

Is a shuttle required to reach the trailhead?

No shuttle is mentioned; you will need to drive to the trailhead.

Seven Mile Bridge

13.9-mile one-way slog through open valleys; bear country—start early, arrange a shuttle.

Avalanche Peak Trail

Lung-buster alpine assault: 2,100ft in 2.1 miles to exposed ridgeline with epic peak views.

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 January 2026. Report an issue.