Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
campers must watch a bear-safety video and review regulations with a ranger before ob-
taining a permit, or provide a card of proof that you've received a previous permit.
THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL
Extending from New Mexico to Canada, this 3100-mile
thru trail
(CDT;
www.cdtrail.org
)
bisects beautiful sec-
tions of the Teton Wilderness and Yellowstone. Hiking it is a great option for hearty thru-hikers who think big.
Obtaining backcountry permits for the Yellowstone section can be tricky, as hikers must know their dates and pick
up the permit in advance, but rangers are generally understanding. Due to snow, this portion of the trail usually
opens around July 1. Check the website for maps, trip planning and volunteer opportunities. Useful guidebooks to
the trail include
Continental Divide Trail Guidebook Vol 3,
available from the Continental Divide Trail Society
(
www.cdtsociety.org
).
Hike Ratings
There are hikes for every ability level in Greater Yellowstone. The duration for hikes lis-
ted in this guide refers to walking time only and doesn't include breaks. Our trail descrip-
tions follow the following guidelines:
Easy
Manageable for nearly all walkers, an easy hike is under 4 miles, with fairly even,
possibly paved terrain, and no significant elevation gain or loss.
Moderate
Fine for fit hikers and active, capable children; moderate hikes have a modest
elevation gain.
Difficult
For fit and experienced hikers only. Trails might be strenuous, long and even in-
distinct in places. Expect significant elevation gain, and scrambling may be necessary.
Day Hikes
Almost every part of the Greater Yellowstone region offers outstanding hiking. Don't
overlook the longer trails - you can fashion short day hikes by following the first couple
of miles of a longer trail.
Day hikes are well-marked, well-maintained trails, often with restroom facilities. In
some forested areas these trails may be marked by a series of blazed trees; in Yellowstone
trees bear orange metal tags; on rocky moraines look for cairns.
For more information on day hikes in Yellowstone and Grand Teton,
Click here
a
nd
