Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder that offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including biking. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a family looking for a fun adventure, Yellowstone’s bike trails provide an opportunity to explore the park’s stunning landscapes, geothermal features, and abundant wildlife. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the popular bike trails, family-friendly options, and essential regulations and safety tips to help you plan your Yellowstone biking experience.
Popular Bike Trails in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park boasts several bike trails that cater to various skill levels and interests. Here are some of the most popular options:
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Old Faithful to Morning Glory Pool Bike Path: This 2-mile round-trip ride takes you through the iconic geyser basin, offering breathtaking views of the famous Old Faithful geyser and the vibrant Morning Glory Pool.
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Lone Star Geyser Trail: Covering a 3.5-mile round-trip, this trail leads you through a shaded forest and culminates at the Lone Star Geyser, known for its impressive eruptions and minimal crowds.
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Mount Washburn Bike Trail: For the more adventurous cyclists, the Mount Washburn Bike Trail offers a challenging ride with stunning views from the top of the mountain. The trail starts at the Chittenden Road parking area.
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Riverside Bike Trail: This gravel road trail follows the Madison River, providing scenic views and the potential for wildlife sightings. It’s suitable for mountain bikes or knobby tires.
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Old Gardner Road Trail: Starting behind the Mammoth Hot Springs hotel, this smooth trail continues to the north entrance, making it an excellent choice for families with children.
Family-Friendly Bike Trails
Yellowstone National Park offers several bike trails that are perfect for families with kids. Two of the most recommended options are:
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Riverside Bike Trail: As mentioned earlier, the Riverside Bike Trail is a relatively flat and scenic trail along the Madison River, making it an ideal choice for families.
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Old Gardner Road Trail: This smooth and easy-to-ride trail is perfect for families, as it starts at the Mammoth Hot Springs hotel and continues to the north entrance.
Biking Regulations and Safety Tips
When exploring Yellowstone National Park on two wheels, it’s essential to be aware of the park’s regulations and follow safety guidelines:
- Bicycles are allowed on the main park roads but are not permitted on backcountry trails, boardwalks, or oversnow routes.
- Ride single file on the right-hand road shoulder and be alert for administrative vehicles.
- Wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing, and be prepared for self-rescue or repair in case of emergencies.
- Maintain a safe distance of 25 yards from all wildlife and 100 yards from bears and wolves.
Best Time for Biking in Yellowstone
The best times to enjoy biking in Yellowstone National Park are:
- Spring: Typically from mid-March to the third Thursday in April, when the park experiences minimal vehicle traffic.
- Fall: After the park roads close to public vehicle traffic, usually in November, offering a peaceful biking experience.
Additional Information
Here are a few additional details to consider when planning your Yellowstone biking adventure:
- Camping: Yellowstone has designated campsites for bicyclists and hikers, available by reservation or on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Services: During the spring and fall biking seasons, limited services are available, so be prepared for self-sufficiency.
Yellowstone National Park’s bike trails offer a unique and unforgettable way to explore the park’s natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking a challenging ride or a family-friendly adventure, the park’s diverse bike trails cater to all levels of cyclists. Remember to follow the regulations, prioritize safety, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife that make Yellowstone a true natural gem.