Heart Lake Guided Backpacking Trips

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Day 1: Easy - 8-9 mi/12.8-14.4 km

From Bozeman, Montana we'll drive to the park's West Entrance and the small town of West Yellowstone. From this bustling gateway community we follow the Grand Loop Road past Madison Junction, Old Faithful and Grant Village. The Heart Lake Trailhead (8N1) is located north of Lewis Lake and is approximately 3-3.5 hours from Bozeman.

After a brief orientation at the trailhead our hike begins in the towering lodgepole forests south of the Continental Divide. At the halfway point for the day we reach a magnificent spot overlooking Heart Lake. To the right is a large cluster of gas vents and bubbling springs known as the "Fissure Group." The sights and sounds in this area reminded early travelers of old steam works and for this reason the peak directly behind this thermal area was aptly named "Factory Hill." From this vantage point the trail descends gradually along Witch Creek, past rust colored springs and open meadows that offer stunning views of Mount Sheridan (10,305 ft. (3,140 m). As we approach the lake the trail passes one of the many backcountry patrol cabins spread across Yellowstone's vast wilderness. The Heart Lake Ranger Station was built in 1924 and is situated just north of the lake's gravel beaches. Our first campsite is nestled among the tall pine trees that border the lake's northwestern edge. After dinner we'll visit the hydrothermal area near camp before settling in after a long but exciting first day. 

Day 2: Difficult - 6.6 mi/10.6 km

After breakfast we'll attempt to summit Mount Sheridan (10,305 ft. (3,140 m) before the onset of any afternoon thunderstorms. This is a strenuous day hike that gains 2,800 ft. (853 m) in 3.3 miles (5.3 km). Our physical efforts will be rewarded with 360º panoramas from top of this lofty summit high above Heart Lake. A small lookout tower adorns the top of Mount Sheridan, its foundation made from the very stones found scattered across its windswept summit. A wooden bench located on the tower's east side provides shelter from the wind and a shady spot for a well deserved lunch break. The views from the top of Mount Sheridan are second to none. The unmistakable profile of the Grand Tetons are visible on the horizon to the south. The clear and cold waters of Yellowstone Lake can be seen across miles of untouched wilderness to the north. Directly below the summit lies the unique outline of Heart Lake, its deep blue waters surrounded by forests of dark green. For anyone stationed at the summit in days past—most fire lookouts in the park are no longer in service—this must have been an enviable position during the short and spectacular Yellowstone summers.

Day 3: Easy - 8-12 mi/12.8-19.3 km

After our second night beside Heart Lake our journey continues along the forested regions north of the lake. In this area we follow a segment of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) which passes through Yellowstone on its 3,100 mile journey across the backbone of the western United States. Upon reaching the east side of Heart Lake we'll follow the Heart River Trail south toward the iconic Snake River, its headwaters are located to the east just below Mariposa Lake. Numerous stream crossings provide for ample rest stops throughout the day and smaller meadows break up the generally flat terrain along the Heart River Trail. We may be camped near the Snake/Heart confluence or further along the Basin Creek Cutoff Trail depending on availability. Both sites are located near sprawling meadows that are perfect for spotting wildlife in the hours before dusk.

Day 4: Easy - 6-10mi/9.6-16 km

On day four we'll head north from camp, connecting with the Heart Lake Trail once again. Mount Sheridan is visible on the horizon across vast meadows that are a haven for wildlife. Turning south the trail meanders through thick forests and marshy lowlands and then climbs gently beside Red Creek. At the end of the day we rejoin the Snake River at the South Boundary Trail and make our final camp for this trek. For those with a desire to wet a line, the Snake River provides fly fishermen with one final opportunity to catch native trout along this quiet stretch of river that sees very few visitors.   

Day 5: Easy- 5-6 mi/8-9.6 km

On day five the South Boundary Trail carries us toward our final destination at Yellowstone's South Entrance. This is an easy day of hiking through the dense pine forests that border the Snake River. As our journey comes to an end we swap our hiking boots for sandals and cross the Snake River just before reaching the South Boundary Trailhead (8K7). From the South Entrance we'll head back to Bozeman, taking short breaks as needed during the shuttle ride home. Guests are free to request stops at Grant Village, Old Faithful, West Yellowstone and Big Sky. Approximate drive time is 3-4 hours.