Yellowstone Thorofare Valley is a remote and pristine area located southeast of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. This vast wilderness is known for its scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and challenging outdoor activities. Whether you’re an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a true wilderness experience, Yellowstone Thorofare Valley offers a unique and unforgettable adventure.
Activities in Yellowstone Thorofare Valley
Hiking and Backpacking
The Thorofare Trail is a 67.5-mile point-to-point trail that takes hikers through diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and river valleys. This trail is considered highly challenging due to its length and remote location, making it an ideal destination for experienced backpackers.
Wildlife Viewing
Yellowstone Thorofare Valley is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, grizzly bears, and wolves. Visitors have reported encountering these animals, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Fishing
The Yellowstone River and its tributaries offer excellent fishing opportunities for native cutthroat trout, attracting anglers from around the world.
Exploration
The Thorofare Ranger Station, located deep in the wilderness, is a historic cabin that provides insight into the daily routines of park rangers. Visitors can explore the cabin and its surroundings, including an outhouse, stable, and barn.
Accessing Yellowstone Thorofare Valley
Trailheads
The primary trailhead is the Nine Mile Trailhead, accessible via East Entrance Road. The trail begins with a flat, burned forest section and then follows the shore of Yellowstone Lake.
Permits
Overnight camping in Yellowstone requires a backcountry permit, which can be booked in advance through recreation.gov. Permits for this section of the park are relatively easy to obtain.
Precautions and Considerations
Remote Location
The Thorofare region is extremely remote, with some areas over 30 miles from the nearest road. This makes it essential to be well-prepared and self-sufficient.
Wildlife Safety
Visitors should be aware of the presence of bears and other wildlife, taking necessary precautions such as carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking.
Weather and Conditions
The area is prone to flooding, and streams can be challenging to cross. Hikers should be prepared for variable weather conditions and potential river crossings.
Physical Demands
The trail is long and demanding, requiring a good level of physical fitness and endurance.
Logistics and Costs
Guided Trips
Guided backpacking trips are available through companies like Wildland Trekking and REI Adventures, offering a range of options from 7 to 8 days. These trips include guides, camping gear, and meals, with prices starting at around $2,440 per person.
Permits and Fees
Backcountry permits can be obtained through recreation.gov, and fees vary depending on the type of permit and duration of stay.
References
- AllTrails. (n.d.). The Thorofare and South Boundary Trail, Montana – 38 Reviews, Map. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wyoming/the-thorofare-and-the-south-boundary-trail
- Trekking Higher. (2023, February 12). Backpacking the Thorofare in Yellowstone. Retrieved from https://trekkinghigher.com/thorofare-yellowstone/
- FATMAP. (n.d.). The Thorofare | Hiking route in Wyoming. Retrieved from https://fatmap.com/discover/route/united-states-of-america/wyoming/hiking/the-thorofare/31742
- Wildland Trekking. (n.d.). Thorofare Backpacking Trip in Yellowstone. Retrieved from https://wildlandtrekking.com/trips/yellowstone-thorofare-backpacking-trip/
- REI Adventures. (n.d.). Yellowstone Backpacking – The Thorofare. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/adventures/trips/namer/yellowstone-backpacking-the-thorofare.html.