Bliss Pass Trail

Bliss Pass Trail is a 20.5-mile, one-way backcountry traverse from Slough Creek Trailhead (2K5) to Pebble Creek Trailhead (3K2). It links the open Slough Creek valley with upper Pebble Creek over Bliss Pass; the mapped route runs east from Slough to Pebble and does not return to its start. Allow about 12 hours on foot and arrange a shuttle, or plan an overnight itinerary around permitted campsites.

The route begins with roughly six mostly level, open miles through Slough Creek Valley before climbing through forest and rocky ground toward the pass. For a much shorter outing from the same access, a 3.4-mile there-and-back reaches the first meadow; it does not cross Bliss Pass.

The route climbs to about 2,865 m (9,400 ft) at the pass. Steep switchbacks and rocky footing lead into the upper terrain, where mountain views open across the Absarokas. A trip account describes waterfalls on the slopes and snowmelt mud or lingering snow near the pass; those conditions vary by season. On the east side, the trail drops through rocky slopes, meadow and forest toward Pebble Creek.

The upper Pebble Creek stretch includes several fords; one route account records three. Snowmelt can raise the water, so check conditions before setting out and be ready to turn back if a crossing is unsafe. Treat natural water before drinking; no potable-water taps were confirmed along the route.

A backcountry permit is required year-round for overnight stays, and each permit specifies designated campsites and dates. Pets are not allowed on hiking trails or in the backcountry. Bears frequent this area, and moose are also present near Slough Creek. Slough Creek Trailhead has abundant parking, while Pebble Creek Trailhead has limited spaces with additional parking and vault toilets at its campground. The Slough Creek gravel road closes to vehicles in winter; visitors park by the main-road vault toilets and ski or snowshoe to the trailhead.