Cascade Creek Trail

Cascade Creek Trail is a 3.4-mile out-and-back from Cascade Creek Trailhead (4K4) to the Cascade Lake Trail junction. The path crosses a meadow, climbs about 50 feet, then winds through mostly level forest with scattered openings by Cascade Creek. Allow about 1½ to 2 hours. It’s a good choice for an easy creek-and-meadow walk; turn around at the junction, because this route does not continue to Cascade Lake.

The trail starts across a small meadow beside Norris–Canyon Road, then makes its brief climb into the trees. Cascade Creek runs nearby for much of the walk but is often hidden by forest. The views open again in little meadows, then a broader one near the end. The path dips into trees, crosses the creek, and meets Cascade Lake Trail. Walk the same corridor back to the road. There are no cascades on this route, despite the creek’s name.

Spring and early summer bring wildflowers to the meadows, and elk and bison have been seen in the opening. Give elk and bison at least 25 yards; stay 100 yards from bears and wolves. Pets aren’t allowed on Yellowstone hiking trails, though trained service animals are permitted under park rules. The trailhead has an information kiosk and a small parking lot; toilets, drinking water, and food service weren’t listed for this route.