Yellowstone River Trail

Yellowstone River Trail is the 15.1-mile, one-way route through Black Canyon between the trailhead above Gardiner and the Hellroaring Creek end. It is a backcountry point-to-point hike, so arrange a shuttle or vehicles at both ends. The creek endpoint is about 3.1 trail miles from the Hellroaring Trailhead parking area; walking to that lot makes the day 18.2 miles. Allow about nine hours for the named route, plus time for the eastern access. The separate Hellroaring Trail is a 6.2-mile round trip from its trailhead to the confluence if you want a shorter river walk.

From the west trailhead above Gardiner, the route drops toward Bear Creek, crosses a bridge, then climbs onto an open sagebrush bench. The river can slip out of view across this stretch, and shade is sparse. The trail crosses between park and Forest Service land, but the tread stays on the named route; the western access is outside the park boundary.

Near campsite 1Y1, the trail squeezes through a narrow, rocky section with a steep rise and drop over loose boulders. Knowles Falls comes into view from a rocky overlook. Farther along, the canyon opens into longer river-side stretches; near campsite 1Y9, basalt columns stand out on the north wall. The river bends in and out of sight as the trail moves between open benches and tighter canyon walls.

Grizzlies frequent the Blacktail Deer Creek area where this trail crosses. Carry bear spray and travel in groups of three or more, as the park recommends. The exposed bench has little shade, and the rocky section near 1Y1 needs steady footing. Pets are prohibited on the trail, and overnight camping requires a backcountry permit.