Beaver Ponds Loop Trail

Overview

This is a moderate 5.6-mile loop starting right from Mammoth Hot Springs. Expect roughly 700–750 feet of cumulative elevation gain (about 350 feet net) over rolling terrain. Most hikers take 2–3 hours, depending on wildlife stops and photo breaks. It’s a true Yellowstone sampler: open sagebrush meadows, pockets of forest, airy ridge walking, and a string of tranquil ponds about halfway around.

Route and Trailheads

You can begin from several signed access points in Mammoth: north of Liberty Cap near the stone house, behind the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel at the start of Old Gardiner Road, near Hymen Spring, or behind the Justice Center. Clockwise puts a steeper climb up front to gain the ridge before descending toward the ponds; counterclockwise flips the feel and brings you to the ponds later. The path is narrow, rocky singletrack with a few wooden bridges and occasional short, steep pitches. In a couple of spots the tread can be vague—stay alert for signs and junctions.

What You’ll See

Views swing out over Gardiner Canyon and distant peaks, with wildflower-dotted hillsides in early summer. The beaver ponds—technically on the Montana side of the boundary—are the marquee stop, but manage expectations: you’re more likely to spot muskrats and water birds than active beavers. This loop is excellent for wildlife: elk are common, and both black and grizzly bears frequent the area; badgers show up now and then. Give all animals plenty of space and enjoy from a distance.

Trail Feel: Pros and Cons

Surface is mostly firm, bare ground and rock, with switchbacks handling most elevation changes. Sun-exposed stretches can get hot, and thorny plants along the narrow tread make long pants a smart call. On a busy day around Mammoth the loop can still feel surprisingly quiet, especially if you start early—but closures do happen for bear activity.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through fall (roughly May–October) is the sweet spot, with early morning offering cooler temps, softer light, and better wildlife chances. After rain, expect muddy patches near the ponds. If thunderstorms are in the forecast, skip it—there are exposed sections where you’re a lightning target and winds can whip.

Tips Before You Go

This is bona fide bear country: carry bear spray, hike in a group if you can, make noise in brushy/low-visibility sections, and give wildlife a very wide berth. Bring 1–2 liters of water per person, sun protection, and a light layer for ridge breezes. Download an offline map; a couple of junctions are easy to stride past when you’re gawking at views.

If It’s Closed or You Want a Backup

When this loop is closed for bear activity, a popular nearby alternative with big views is Bunsen Peak. It scratches the climb-and-vista itch without the pond detour.