Watkins Creek Trailhead (USFS Road 167) — 7-Mile Out-and-Back Hike

Q: Is a day-use permit required?

Day-use generally does not require a permit; dispersed camping may need one.

Q: Is water potable on the trail?

Water from creeks is not potable; filter before drinking.

Q: Is the trail well-marked?

Mostly well-marked; carry a map and be prepared for a couple junctions that require basic navigation.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families with kids?

The early meadow sections are gentle, but creek crossings and elevation gains can challenge younger children.

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Distance

10 mi

Elevation Gain

2,638 ft

Est. Time

4-6 hours for Coffin Lakes; longer for extended, multi-day routes

Route Type

Out-and-back (Coffin Lakes option); possible connections to Continental Divide Trail or West Fork Watkins Creek

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Summer months (July–September)

Overview

About This Trail

Watkins Creek Trailhead demands grit. The Coffin Lakes objective spans roughly 10 miles round trip with about 2,638 ft of gain; longer links exist for tougher backcountry days. Expect sun-soaked meadows, creek crossings that demand footing, and steep, chunky sections. The payoff is isolation among alpine waters and dense forest as you push through.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Difficult

Trail Highlights

Coffin Lakes, high-country passes, and solitude among forest and meadow

Insider Tips

• Start at dawn; Coffin Lakes yields best payoff for a day hike. • For extra challenge, link to the Continental Divide Trail or explore West Fork Watkins Creek. • Pack extra water and check weather; storms can arrive fast. • Bear spray is essential; store food properly and stay vocal on approach routes.

Best Season to Hike

Summer months (July–September)

Hiking Tips

Tighten your boots.
Carry 2 liters water minimum.
Bear spray ready; be loud in bear country.
Start cold, pace yourself, and expect sun in meadows with shade later.

Family Info

Initial meadow sections are gentle, but creek crossings and elevation gain may challenge very young children

What Hikers Say

Hikers report a demanding ascent with creek crossings and exposure; solitude is the recurring reward. The route varies from moderate to steep, depending on choice of objective and extensions.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 10 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,638 ft

Duration: 4-6 hours for Coffin Lakes; longer for extended, multi-day routes

Difficulty: Difficult

Route Type: Out-and-back (Coffin Lakes option); possible connections to Continental Divide Trail or West Fork Watkins Creek

Surface: Meadows with sage and wildflowers; singletrack; horse traffic; creek crossings; ascents to mountain passes

Getting There

Trailhead: Watkins Creek Trailhead, off USFS Road 167, ~18.5 miles from West Yellowstone, MT (about 35 minutes)

Parking: Ample parking

Fills Up: Not normally crowded; rarely fills; plan for dawn arrival

Requirements

Permit Required

Dispersed camping may require a permit; day-use generally permit-free

Fees: Varies; day-use often free; dispersed camping permits may apply

Shuttle Available

Not required; no shuttle mandated

Trail Rules

Dogs: Leashed dogs allowed

Biking: Limited to certain sections; verify local regulations

Trail Markers: Well-marked in most sections; carry a map for junctions

Map/GPS recommended

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Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Creeks present; water not potable; filter before drinking

Shade: Full sun in meadow sections; shaded forest portions

Cell Service: Limited to none

Hazards:

Carry bear spray; make noise in bear country; creek crossings can require wading or detours; exposed meadows demand sun protection; be ready for rapid weather changes

Emergency: Call 911 for emergencies; contact Yellowstone rangers through the West Yellowstone district

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Infrequently used

Peak Times: Dawn and early morning; otherwise quieter trails

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and steep in places; some smoother sections; not wheelchair accessible

Family Notes:

Initial meadow sections are gentle, but creek crossings and elevation gain may challenge very young children

Nearby Facilities

West Yellowstone services: gas, groceries, lodging, trail information

What Hikers Say

Hikers report a demanding ascent with creek crossings and exposure; solitude is the recurring reward. The route varies from moderate to steep, depending on choice of objective and extensions.