Yellowstone National Park is only part of the story—the gateway towns that surround it are full of epic trails that rival anything inside the park. Whether you’re arriving early or staying late, these classic day hikes give you a real sense of place, from alpine lakes to geothermal gems.
Lace up your boots. Here are seven unforgettable hikes—one from each of Yellowstone’s gateway communities.
1. Gardiner, Montana (North Entrance)
Hike: Beaver Ponds Loop Trail
Distance: 5.1 miles
Why Go: Just a short walk from Mammoth Hot Springs, this trail offers peaceful forests, open meadows, and the chance to spot elk, marmots, and maybe even a black bear. The shimmering ponds midway through the loop are a serene reward.
Insider Tip: Hike clockwise for better views and a gentler climb.
2. West Yellowstone, Montana (West Entrance)
Hike: Fairy Falls to Imperial Geyser
Distance: 6.7 miles
Why Go: Start with a panoramic view of Grand Prismatic Spring, then descend to one of Yellowstone’s tallest waterfalls. From there, continue to the bubbling, backcountry Imperial Geyser.
Insider Tip: Go early to beat the crowds and catch the morning mist rising off the thermal features.
3. Cody, Wyoming (East Entrance)
Hike: Bridal Veil Falls
Distance: 4.0 miles
Why Go: Located in the South Fork Valley just outside of Cody, this trail climbs gently through classic Wyoming terrain to a graceful waterfall cascading over high cliffs.
Insider Tip: Spring and early summer offer the best flow—and wildflowers.
4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming (South Entrance)
Hike: Taggart Lake Trail
Distance: 3.8 miles
Why Go: A favorite in Grand Teton National Park, this mellow loop leads to a jaw-dropping lake at the base of the Tetons. Perfect for families or a sunset stroll.
Insider Tip: Hike it clockwise for dramatic mountain views as you approach the lake.
5. Cooke City/Silver Gate, Montana (Northeast Entrance)
Hike: Beartooth Lakes Loop
Distance: 6.3 miles
Why Go: High in the Beartooths, this scenic loop winds past alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and dramatic rock formations. Less trafficked and absolutely stunning.
Insider Tip: Bring layers—even in summer, weather at high elevations can shift quickly.
6. Bozeman, Montana
Hike: Hyalite Lake Trail
Distance: 11 miles
Why Go: One of Bozeman’s most iconic trails, this out-and-back route passes multiple waterfalls before ending at a jewel-like alpine lake.
Insider Tip: Start early and bring plenty of water—it’s a long one, but well worth the effort.
7. Livingston, Montana
Hike: Pine Creek Lake Trail
Distance: 10.5 miles
Why Go: This challenging hike in the Absaroka Range offers big mountain views, creek crossings, and a spectacular alpine lake at the top.
Insider Tip: Trekking poles and good shoes help on the steep sections and rocky switchbacks.
From geyser-fed streams to sky-high lakes, every Yellowstone gateway town offers something special beyond the park borders. Add one of these classic hikes to your itinerary and experience the wild beauty that surrounds the world’s first national park.
