Shoshone Lake Loop
Shoshone Lake Loop and Heart Lake Loop, Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming
Description: The CDT crosses the major arteries of Yellowstone National Park on the South Entrance Road along the Heart Lake Trail and on the Grand Loop Road at the Howard Eaton and Mystic Falls Trailheads. Closest to Old Faithful is the Howard Eaton Trailhead. From there, follow the Trail to Shoshone Lake and enjoy your lunch at a campsite located in a meadow on the south shore of this enchanted lake, the largest lake in the contiguous US without road access. Alternatively, backpack in and awaken early to see an abundance of wildlife activity along the lake’s enchanted shoreline. Permits are required for backcountry camping.
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Length: Shoshone Lake Loop-28 miles, Heart Lake Loop-34 miles.
Family-Friendly Option
“All roads lead to Old Faithful.” Hike desired distance on the CDT from the Howard Eaton Trailhead on the south side of the Grand Loop Road, just south from Old Faithful Lodge and Inn. You can also access the CDT on the quieter Summit Lake Trail north of Old Faithful.
|
Directions: There are five entrances to the famed Yellowstone National Park, all roads leading to Old Faithful and the Howard Eaton Trailhead. The Howard Eaton Trail parking area is on the south side of the Grand Loop, just south of the Old Faithful Lodge and Inn. The North Entrance is the only one open to wheeled vehicles year-round. From Butte, Bozeman, or Billings, Montana, drive to Livingston, Montana, on I-90. Head south 61.0 miles on US 89 to Gardiner, Montana. From the North Entrance, it is 56 miles to Old Faithful.
Maps: USGS 7.5 Quadrangles: Mount Sheridan, Lewis Falls, Shoshone Geyser Basin, Old Faithful. Trails Illustrated #201
Other Information:
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park at (307) 344-7381.