Clear Lake - Ribbon Lake Trail

Overview

If you want Yellowstone variety without a long day, this one delivers: roaring canyon views, tranquil lakes fringed with lilies, and a surprising little thermal area—no boardwalk required. As a loop via the South Rim, Clear Lake, and Ribbon Lake it’s a popular half‑day; as an out‑and‑back from the Clear Lake Trailhead to Ribbon Lake, the park lists it as 5.8 miles total and easy.

Route Options and Distance

You’ve got choices. The common loop that links the South Rim segment with Clear Lake and Ribbon Lake is about 4.8 miles total (roughly 2 hours for most hikers). If you prefer to keep it simple, the NPS‑described out‑and‑back to Ribbon Lake is 5.8 miles total from the Clear Lake Trailhead. There’s also a longer loop variant around 6 miles that adds more South Rim time. Expect rolling elevation with a few short, steeper pops.

What You’ll See

Start with big‑ticket views along the South Rim near Artist Point—crowded, yes, but you drop most of the people once you commit to the dirt. The trail quickly trades pavement for singletrack and airy canyon edges (with some loose gravel) before ducking into forest and meadows. Clear Lake is a small, emerald pool with visible hydrothermal activity; the nearby thermal section shows off steaming vents, mudpots, and bleached ground—stay on the marked path. Beyond lily‑pad ponds and wetlands, Ribbon Lake sits quietly near the canyon rim. Its outlet plunges into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone as Silver Cord Cascade, but you won’t get a safe view of the falls from this side—don’t attempt a scramble to the brink.

Difficulty and Trail Feel

Easy to moderate overall. Footing ranges from paved overlooks to well‑worn singletrack with occasional exposure along the rim. If you dislike heights, hug the inside edge on those sections. Around the lakes, the trail is mellow but can be buggy in season.

Wildlife and Nature Notes

This is bear country—both grizzly and black bears frequent the area. You’ll also see plenty of small critter life like chipmunks and squirrels. Around the lakes, expect mosquitoes in summer; bring repellent.

Tips and Tricks

• Start early to enjoy Artist Point with fewer crowds, then peel off onto the quieter Ribbon/Clear segments.
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it; hike in a group and make noise.
• Don’t bother hunting for a Silver Cord Cascade view from here—save that for a North Rim stop on a different outing.
• If you’re overnighting at designated backcountry sites near Ribbon Lake, know that drawing water from the lake can be awkward thanks to weeds and downed logs; some backpackers prefer a nearby creek.

Best Time to Hike

June through August is prime, but expect peak crowds near the overlooks and mosquitoes around the lakes. Mornings offer cooler temps, gentler light on the canyon, and thinner crowds. Early fall can be lovely and quieter, though conditions vary—check current guidance before you go.

Regulations and Safety

The park emphasizes: stay on established trails—especially in thermal areas—keep 100 yards from bears/wolves and 25 yards from other wildlife, and no pets on trails. Camping is allowed only in designated sites with proper permits, and proper food storage is mandatory.