Mallard Lake

Overview

Mallard Lake is the antidote to Old Faithful’s bustle: a tranquil backcountry lake reached by a moderate hike through lodgepole pine and old burn. Expect real solitude and classic Yellowstone woods-to-water vibes at the end.

The Hike

From the Old Faithful area, the trail crosses the Firehole River and passes Pipeline Hot Springs before climbing through forest shaped by the 1988 fires and pockets of mature lodgepole. It’s roughly 7–7.5 miles round-trip with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain, starting around 7,100 feet and topping out a bit over 8,000. The path is generally well‑developed, occasionally rocky, and marked in places with orange tags. You’ll also thread a short rocky gorge en route. Plan about half a day at an unhurried pace.

What You’ll Find at the Lake

The lake is small, pristine, and feels remote despite starting near one of the park’s busiest hubs. It’s a peaceful shoreline for lunch and lingering views. Some visitors have swum here, but leeches have been reported—most folks skip the dip. Fishing is permitted, though this isn’t a noted fishery.

Wildlife & Safety

This is bear country. Hikers have seen elk and bear sign along the route. Travel in a group if you can, carry bear spray, make noise in dense timber, and give all wildlife plenty of space. Weather flips quickly at elevation—snow can linger or even fall in June—so pack layers and rain protection. Mosquitoes are typically worst from mid‑June through late July; bring strong repellent.

Camping & Logistics

There are designated backcountry sites on the lake (permits required). One recent report noted a pit toilet and a bear‑hang pole at their site, while other reports say no bear poles are present—don’t count on hardware; bring rope and know a proper hang. There’s no potable water provided, and one camper noted no running inflow/outflow, so filter or treat anything you take from the lake. Campfires, if allowed, are in designated rings only; follow Leave No Trace.

Parking is in the main Old Faithful lots; use restrooms there before starting. There are no facilities along the trail. On-trail water sources are limited—carry plenty.

Geology: On a Resurgent Dome

Mallard Lake sits atop the Mallard Lake resurgent dome within the Yellowstone Caldera—an area uplifted as magma refilled at depth. An uplift episode about 170,000 years ago accompanied the Mallard Lake rhyolite flow that blankets much of the dome. Domes are vast and subtle to the eye, but they’re a key piece of Yellowstone’s active volcanic story.

Best Time to Visit

• Season: Late summer into early fall brings fewer bugs and more predictable weather. Snow and mud are possible in June.
• Time of day: Start early for cooler temps, easier parking, and a quieter shoreline.
• Crowds: This trail sees far fewer people than the geyser basins—weekdays are even quieter.
• Conditions: Always check current trail status and advisories with the park before you go.