Pelican Creek Trail
A short, flat trail through meadows to Yellowstone Lake’s shore, ideal for birdwatching (pelicans, ducks) and peaceful lake views. Family-friendly and less crowded.
Trailhead: Pelican Creek Bridge, east of Fishing Bridge.
Notes: Good for early morning wildlife; bring binoculars.
South Loop Day Hikes
Lake Area
45-60 minutes
Easy
1.3 miles round-trip
Surrounding Activities
Pelican Creek Trail
Storm Point Trail
Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail
Mystic Falls Loop
Fairy Falls Trail
Observation Point and Solitary Geyser Loop
Mount Washburn
South Rim Trail to Point Sublime
Uncle Tom’s Trail
Artist Paintpots Trail
Tips for Hiking in Yellowstone
Safety
Carry bear spray, hike in groups, and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife (bears, bison). Keep 100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from other animals.
Gear
Bring water, snacks, layers (weather changes fast), and sturdy shoes. Trekking poles help on steeper trails like Uncle Tom’s or Mount Washburn.
Timing
Start early (7-9 AM) to avoid crowds, heat, and afternoon storms, especially in summer. Check sunrise/sunset times for wildlife activity.
Conditions
Trails near geothermal areas (e.g., Artist Paintpots, Mystic Falls) can be muddy or closed for safety. Check with rangers at visitor centers (Mammoth, Canyon, Old Faithful).
Permits
No permits are needed for day hikes, but backcountry permits are required for overnight trips.
Weather
Summer highs are 70-80°F, but trails like Mount Washburn can be chilly or snowy even in July. Check forecasts at nps.gov/yell.
These hikes range from easy strolls to moderate challenges, covering Yellowstone’s diverse landscapes. If you want more details on specific trails (e.g., maps, current conditions, or accessibility), or need recommendations for certain interests (e.g., photography, solitude, or strenuous hikes), let me know, and I can search for real-time info or refine the list!overnight trips.