Eagle Pass-Mountain Creek Trail

Overview

This is the back door into Yellowstone’s emptiest country. From Eagle Pass, the Mountain Creek Trail drops about 1,600 feet over 10.2 miles one way to meet the Thorofare Trail along the Upper Yellowstone River. Expect a steep first mile off the pass, then a long, gradual descent through open, fire-sculpted lodgepole country with huge views and almost no crowds. Note: reaching Eagle Pass from the east requires a long approach via the Eagle Pass Trail before this 10.2‑mile descent—plan a multi‑day itinerary if you’re continuing into the Thorofare.

What You’ll See

Right away, you get big alpine views from Eagle Pass, including Yellowstone’s highest summit, Eagle Peak. The corridor bears the signature of the 1988 fires—wide sightlines, young lodgepole, and an exposed feel that makes the mountains pop. Keep an eye out for Turret Mountain’s distinctive breccia tower, a striking volcanic remnant that anchors the middle section of the route.

Route Notes

From the pass, the first mile drops roughly 650 feet to Howell Creek, where the grade eases. You’ll cross Howell Creek twice early on, pass the Howell Fork Patrol Cabin, and see the Dike Creek Trail split toward the Teton Wilderness. Designated backcountry camps sit in logical spots for backpackers (6D6 around 5.2 miles; 6D5 around 7.8 miles). Near mile 9.2, you pass the Mountain Creek Triangle Trail before reaching the Thorofare Trail at 10.2 miles. From that junction, it’s roughly 7 miles south to the storied Thorofare Patrol Cabin.

Geology and Landscape

You’re traveling the eastern edge of the Absaroka Range, built from Eocene‑age volcaniclastic rocks—ancient stratovolcano country. The open hillsides and breccia outcrops around Turret Mountain tell that story well. The southern slopes of Eagle Peak drain through Mountain Creek toward Yellowstone Lake, tying your descent to the park’s big-water basin.

Wildlife

This is prime grizzly habitat. Elk commonly move through these meadows and forests, and you may also encounter moose in the broader Eagle Creek/Mountain Creek system and bighorn sheep on surrounding high ground. Make noise in brushy sections and carry bear spray.

Best Time to Hike

Late July through September is the reliable window. Snow lingers near Eagle Pass into summer, and early season runoff can swell creek crossings. Aim for early starts for cooler temps and softer light—afternoons can be hot on exposed, post‑fire slopes. Weekdays see almost no traffic.

Access, Permits, and Tips

Most hikers approach from the east via the Eagle Creek Trail, starting near Eagle Creek Campground outside the park, using pedestrian suspension bridges to cross the North Fork Shoshone River. Inside the park, overnight trips require a backcountry permit, and camping is at designated sites like 6D6 and 6D5. No pets are allowed on park trails. This is remote country: carry maps/GPS, expect creek crossings, and be self‑sufficient.

Bottom Line

If you want solitude, big volcanic scenery, and a direct line into the Thorofare, this trail delivers. It’s not casual—steep, committing, and far from help—but for prepared backpackers, it’s one of Yellowstone’s most rewarding corridors.