Fall hiking in Yellowstone
As the air begins to get crisp and the nights get colder it is time to think about taking advantage of the last bit of warm weather that September promises. It is not too late to plan a hike in Yellowstone National Park for sometime during September and if you hit it just right you could even get a glimpse of beautiful fall foliage closer to the end of the month. Here is another hike from the wonderful series provided by Timber Trails.
Yellowstone River Trail
Trip Distance: 12 miles
Duration: 6-9 hours
Maps: Yellowstone National Park Hiking Map
Distance from Livingston to Trailhead: 66 miles
This Yellowstone National Park hike makes a great early or late season venture. Having two vehicles is ideal as the start of this hike is at Blacktail Deer Creek Trailhead and the finish is at the Rocky Mountain Campground in Gardiner, making a shuttle necessary.
From the Trailhead, the hike gradually descends alongside Blacktail Deer Creek for 3.5 miles into the Black Canyon of the Yellowstone. Wildflowers create a colorful display and will make you wish for a wildflower guide book. At the bottom of the canyon, a suspension foot-bridge spans the Yellowstone River giving you passage to the Yellowstone River Trail. From here, the trail parallels the Yellowstone. Knowles Falls, and the canyon that funnels the River below Knowles, are particularly impressive. Unlike the River, the trail follows a more pleasant and gentle course through the canyon. Toward the end of the canyon, watch for Bighorn sheep as they frequent this area. The flora and landscape of this hike vary so dramatically from start to finish, the excitement of what’s next will keep you going for the entire distance. Remember to tread lightly and leave no trace.
Please stop in to Timber Trails for great gear or further suggestions on other hiking destinations. And as always, be sure to tell us all about your hiking adventures!
