The vast majority of visitors to Yellowstone never venture beyond the roads, boardwalks and major roadside attractions in the Park. For those who do, an unspoiled wilderness awaits to be discovered. Yellowstone has over 1000 miles of trails for the day hiker or backcountry camper. All overnight use of the backcountry requires a permit. Hikers can apply in advance for a small fee, or make campsite reservations once in the Park.
Reservations are on a first-served, first come basis.
Wildlife are always pose a potential danger, and hikers and overnight users should stop at a ranger station to check on current bear activity. Some trails are closed at certain times of the year, particularly in the spring and early summer, to reduce human-bear encounters. During the winter months, some of the Park's trails are open exclusively to cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. It is not too early to start thinking about visiting the Yellowstone backcountry next year. Tim Gourley Hon.