Coyote Creek Trail

Overview

A remote-feeling day in Yellowstone’s northern range, the Coyote Creek Trail serves up solitude and open-country vistas more than headline scenery. Expect roughly 11.2 miles total, out-and-back, including the approach via Hellroaring and Buffalo Plateau connectors, with about 1,500–1,900 feet of climbing. It’s rated challenging, but the grades are mostly steady and forgiving—this is a grind, not a scramble.

Access and Route

You’ll park at the Hellroaring Trailhead off the Mammoth–Tower road, descend switchbacks, cross the Yellowstone River on the steel suspension bridge, then cruise 1.5 miles on the Hellroaring Creek Trail and another 0.5 miles on the Buffalo Plateau Trail to reach the Coyote Creek junction. The official Coyote Creek Trailhead at the park’s north boundary exists but isn’t road-accessible—hikers reach it on foot. Strong parties sometimes continue into the national forest beyond the boundary to make bigger loops.

Scenery and Setting

The route climbs through wide sage meadows and open Douglas-fir stands toward the Buffalo Plateau, with broad looks south to the Washburn Range and the Yellowstone River Valley. Higher up, you’ll slip into cooler spruce–fir–pine forest on the plateau. Reviews consistently call the scenery “good, not spectacular”—the draw here is big sky, wildflowers in season, and elbow room.

Trail Character and Conditions

Despite the overall elevation gain, the trail often feels steady and not overly steep. It’s exposed for long stretches, with little shade, and can be overgrown—long pants save shins. After rain, expect mud and heavy signs of stock use (manure). The national forest segment beyond the boundary tends to be even muckier. GPS can be unreliable in Yellowstone, so carry and know how to read a proper map.

Wildlife and Safety

This is classic bear country—grizzlies frequent the area, especially early season. You also stand a good chance of seeing bison, elk, and coyotes. Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and give all wildlife plenty of space. Dogs aren’t allowed on park trails.

Best Time to Hike

Mid- to late summer brings open views and wildflowers but also fierce mosquitoes and flies—bring strong repellent and reapply often. The exposed hillsides mean strong sun on clear days; wear a brimmed hat and sunscreen. After storms, the tread turns to muck quickly. If you want cooler footing and fewer bugs, start early and aim for drier weather windows.

Tips

• Wear long pants for brushy sections; sun protection is essential.
• Pack extra water or a filter and a light wind layer—weather turns fast on open slopes.
• Navigation: use official maps rather than relying solely on a GPS track.
• Backpackers: overnight stays require backcountry permits; day hiking does not.

Bottom Line

Underrated for solitude, overrated if you’re hunting blockbuster views. If you like big open country, steady climbing, and few people—and don’t mind exposure, bugs, mud, and the realities of stock-shared trails—Coyote Creek delivers a satisfying, quiet day.