Storm Point Trail
A scenic 2.3-mile loop through fragrant pines to Yellowstone Lake, offering wildlife sightings and serene pond views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, wildlife active
Storm Point Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, wildlife active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 2.3-mile loop through fragrant pines to Yellowstone Lake, offering wildlife sightings and serene pond views.
"10/10 for this hike. Strong smell of pine trees, the pond was super green in color, lots of ducks on it and buffalo."
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
🥾 Trail Obstacles
Be prepared to climb over or under fallen trees. The clockwise route is often easier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indian Pond
Start of the loop
A serene pond with vibrant green waters, often dotted with ducks and bison.
Yellowstone Lake Shoreline
Along the loop
Walk along the water's edge with expansive views of the vast Yellowstone Lake.
Pine Forest Section
Mid-loop
A fragrant pine forest offering a refreshing walk, sometimes with snow in early spring.
Bison Scratching Posts
Along the trail
Observe trees and rocks marked with bison hair from where they scratch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Hike Storm Point Trail
Wildlife Encounters on Storm Point Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Storm Point Trail, Yellowstone Lake
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
🥾 Trail Obstacles
Be prepared to climb over or under fallen trees. The clockwise route is often easier.
Trail suggestions in the park for a new hiker
Short Hikes
🌲 Scent of Pine
Enjoy the strong, refreshing smell of pine trees throughout much of the hike.
🦬 Bison Sightings
You'll likely see bison; keep a safe distance and admire them from afar.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
🥾 Trail Obstacles
Be prepared to climb over or under fallen trees. The clockwise route is often easier.
🌲 Scent of Pine
Enjoy the strong, refreshing smell of pine trees throughout much of the hike.
🦬 Bison Sightings
You'll likely see bison; keep a safe distance and admire them from afar.
💧 Water Levels
Trail conditions can vary. Be aware of potential snowpack in early spring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Storm Point Trail's natural beauty, from the vibrant Indian Pond to the expansive Yellowstone Lake views. The fragrant pine forest and frequent wildlife sightings, including bison, are major highlights. While some fallen trees can present minor challenges, the overall experience is described as enjoyable and worthwhile for its scenic rewards and wildlife encounters.
"10/10 for this hike. Strong smell of pine trees, the pond was super green in color, lots of ducks on it and buffalo. Have to climb over several fallen trees but it was so fun. You can see chunks of hair on the trees and rocks where the buffalo scratched often. Lots of animals on the trial since it seems to be less traveled. Squirls woodpeckers birds. Hike out to the storm point clockwise and back the same way for an easier hike. The last half of the trail to the left has a ton of fallen trees and would be hard for some people to find their way.. Also it's just mostly forest so you will not miss anything by skipping it."
Mindy McCord
"We took our 6 year old on this hike in mid-May and the pine forest part of the trail was still completely snow -packed. He loved it. Zero complaints the entire hike.
The scenery is lovely, views phenomenal, decent trail conditions (had to climb over/under 3 fallen trees) and well worth the time"
Samantha Rutkowske
"Enjoyable walking trail from the main road to the northern end of Yellowstone Lake. Walk along Indian Pond, pass a few buffalo into the distance and follow the water's edge into a wooded area. Continue onward through and out to the tip with expansive views of the Lake. A note to take caution as this area is slightly desolate so one may encounter wild animals including buffalo and bears."
Andy Ng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Storm Point Trail is accessible from the main road in Yellowstone National Park. The trailhead is often near Indian Pond, making it a convenient starting point for the loop. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
Public transportation options within Yellowstone are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or utilize park shuttles if available to reach the trailhead. Check the park's official website for current shuttle routes.
From the main park road, look for signs for Indian Pond and the Storm Point Trail. The exact location can be found on park maps. It's a relatively easy drive from major park entrances.
Yes, there is typically a parking area near the trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during summer months. Arriving early is recommended.
While the primary access is from the main road near Indian Pond, the loop nature means you can theoretically connect from other areas, though this is less common and may involve longer, more challenging routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking the Storm Point Trail itself does not require a separate ticket. However, you will need a valid Yellowstone National Park entrance pass to access the park.
The trail is generally accessible year-round, but conditions vary greatly. It's best to check the official Yellowstone National Park website for any seasonal closures or advisories, especially regarding snow.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Yellowstone National Park. Fees are typically per vehicle and valid for seven days. Check the NPS website for current pricing.
While official guided tours specifically for Storm Point Trail might be limited, many park concessioners offer guided hikes and wildlife tours that may include this area. Inquire with park service providers.
For day hiking on Storm Point Trail, no special permits are typically required beyond the park entrance pass. Backcountry permits are needed for overnight stays.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Storm Point Trail is a 2.3-mile loop. Most visitors complete it in 1 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend observing wildlife or enjoying the views.
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It's mostly flat with some sections that require climbing over fallen trees. It's suitable for most fitness levels, including families.
Expect to see bison, squirrels, woodpeckers, and various birds. Bears are also present in the area, so always be bear aware.
Restroom facilities are typically not available directly on the trail itself. You may find them at nearby visitor centers or picnic areas. Plan accordingly.
Due to fallen trees and uneven terrain in some sections, the Storm Point Trail is not generally considered stroller or wheelchair accessible. The pine forest section can be particularly challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores of Yellowstone Lake offer stunning panoramic shots. Indian Pond provides unique reflections and wildlife photo opportunities. The pine forest can be atmospheric, especially with morning mist.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photography, often referred to as the 'golden hours.' This is also when wildlife is most active.
A versatile zoom lens is recommended to capture both landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for the lake views. Consider a telephoto lens for distant animals.
Drones are generally prohibited in all national parks, including Yellowstone, for safety and wildlife disturbance reasons. Always check the latest park regulations.
Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Never use flash photography, as it can disturb animals. Use a telephoto lens to get close-up shots safely.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for some fallen trees that might require a bit of climbing, which can be a fun challenge for kids. However, if you have very young children or strollers, consider sticking to the easier, more defined sections of the trail, or simply hiking out and back along the lake shore. Always prioritize safety by keeping children close and teaching them about wildlife awareness.
🚶♀️ New Hikers & Plus-Size Travelers
Focus on enjoying the scenery and wildlife without pressure. The strong pine scent and lake views offer a rewarding experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be aware of potential wildlife. The trail's less crowded nature in some parts can also make it more comfortable for those who prefer a bit more personal space.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Storm Point Trail Loop
The trail then transitions into a fragrant pine forest. This section can be particularly enchanting, especially in early spring when it might still be snow-packed, offering a unique hiking experience. Be aware that the trail can have obstacles; reviewers mention having to climb over several fallen trees, which adds an element of adventure. For an easier hike, it's often recommended to hike out to Storm Point clockwise and return the same way, as the latter half of the loop can be more challenging with fallen trees and less distinct paths.
Wildlife is a significant feature of this trail. Visitors frequently report seeing bison, squirrels, woodpeckers, and various birds. The presence of bears is also noted, emphasizing the importance of carrying bear spray and staying vigilant. The trail is described as less traveled in parts, which can lead to more intimate wildlife encounters, but also necessitates greater awareness of your surroundings.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
Bears, including grizzly and black bears, inhabit this area. It is imperative to carry bear spray and know how to use it. Making noise as you hike, such as talking or singing, can help alert bears to your presence and prevent surprise encounters. If you see a bear, do not approach it. Back away slowly and calmly, and report the sighting to a park ranger if possible.
Beyond larger mammals, the trail is alive with smaller creatures. Squirrels and various bird species, including woodpeckers, are common sights and sounds. The presence of hair on trees and rocks, where bison have scratched, is another interesting detail to observe. Always remember that these are wild animals, and respecting their space is paramount to a safe and enjoyable experience.
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