Pitchstone Plateau Trail

Overview

A true Yellowstone backcountry classic, the Pitchstone Plateau Trail is a 17–18.1 mile point‑to‑point traverse across the park’s youngest lava flow. Expect a steep wake‑up in the first half mile, then long, rolling miles through 1988 burn regrowth and wide‑open meadows. It’s quiet, committing, and rewards patient hikers with geologic oddities, distant Teton views around mile 9, and a rare, small thermal area away from boardwalk crowds. Dogs are not allowed.

Route and Highlights

Start on the west side of the South Entrance Road just south of Lewis Falls. You’ll gain roughly 320 feet in the first 0.5 mile, then continue a more gradual climb onto the plateau. Around 4.6–4.8 miles, the route passes Phantom Fumarole—steam vents and mud pots set in pale, scorched soil. Stay on durable surfaces; off‑trail travel in thermal areas is prohibited. Beyond, the trail often fades in expansive meadows—look for rock cairns to guide you, especially between miles ~5–11. The high point comes near mile 9 with big looks toward the Tetons, followed by a long, gradual descent toward the west end near the Mountain Ash Creek junction and Grassy Lake Road.

Difficulty and Navigation

The mileage, steep start, and extended cairn‑to‑cairn route‑finding make this a demanding outing best for experienced hikers. The tread can vanish in grass and pumice; carry an offline map and know how to follow a bearing between cairns. This is a lonely corner of the park—don’t expect frequent help. Many parties split the traverse with a night at designated backcountry camps near mile 6.

Water and Season

Despite being in Yellowstone’s wettest corner, late‑summer water on the plateau is surprisingly scarce. The most reliable source after snowmelt is near the mile‑6 camps, where springs typically flow—treat all water. Thermal water is unsafe to drink. Snow often lingers into July; early‑season travel can be boggy and navigation trickier. Prime window is usually July through September.

Wildlife and Safety

You’re in both grizzly and black bear country. Hike in a group, carry bear spray, and know how to use it. If a bear charges, stand your ground and deploy spray at about 60 feet. If contact occurs, lie on your stomach, protect your neck, and play dead. Give wildlife space: 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from everything else. Bison and elk are commonly seen in the meadows.

Best Times to Hike

Aim for mid‑summer through early fall once the snowpack has melted and the meadows have dried. Start early to bank cool miles, dodge afternoon storms, and give yourself time for route‑finding. Photographers will appreciate morning and evening light on the meadows and lava “ribs;” plan shuttle logistics so you’re not racing daylight.

Logistics and Permits

For a true traverse, arrange a car shuttle to the west end near Grassy Lake Road (by Grassy Lake Reservoir). A backcountry permit is required for any overnight; camp only at designated sites and follow food‑storage rules. Fires are allowed only in established fire rings at designated camps. Pack out all trash.

Is it for you?

If you want a remote, geologically rich walk with minimal crowds, this plateau delivers. If you’re chasing nonstop marquee scenery or wildlife density, you may prefer a day among the Canyon area overlooks and falls—far busier, but a bigger immediate payoff. Here, the reward is the quiet.