Duck Lake Trail

Duck Lake Trail is a 0.8-mile out-and-back from the west side of the West Thumb Geyser Basin parking area to Duck Lake shore. Allow one to two hours for the hill, the descent and time by the water. You climb a small hill first, then drop through forest to the lake and return the same way. It makes a good short forest walk with a lakeshore finish.

Near the high point, a powerline clearing opens the first view of Duck Lake and a look toward Yellowstone Lake. The trail crosses land affected by the 1988 fires, with young pines growing back through the burned forest. From the clearing, the path drops through thicker trees; two steeper pitches bring you down to a sandy shore with old logs along the edge. The hill also offers a view toward Yellowstone Lake, though trees hide much of it from the trail; Duck Lake is the clear payoff. The clearing is the best place to frame Duck Lake against the recovering forest, while the shore gives you a closer look at the water and its log-strewn edge.

Start at the west side of the West Thumb Geyser Basin lot. The trail crosses Grand Loop Road almost immediately, so watch for traffic. The short climb and steeper slopes near the lake make this more than a flat stroll. Pets aren't allowed. The trail is listed for summer and fall; no activity fee or reservation is required, though Yellowstone entrance fees may apply.