Call the park to obtain more information on obtaining a backcountry permit. Trail Ratings Easiest - Skiers need basic knowledge and limited experience in the diagonal stride, snow plow, and side stepping. Trails may have short downhill and uphill stretches. More Difficult - Skiers need to be able to ski varied terrain requiring turning, snow plowing, herringboning, and diagonal stride. Most Difficult - Skiers need to be experienced as trails are hazardous and terrain is frequently extreme.
Turns are often sharp and linked together with no room to snow plow or herringbone.
Trails within Yellowstone National Park have been rated by the National Park Service with trail ratings specific to Yellowstone. You are strongly encouraged to inquire at a ranger station or TW Ski Shop before beginning their first ski trip. Weather conditions may cause icy trails, deep snow, or barren sections increasing the difficulty of a trail. When skiing near thermal areas, stay on marked trails. Approaching thermal features is dangerous because of unstable ground.