Hike Beaver Ponds Loop

Beaver Ponds Loop offers a perfect day hike in the Mammoth Hot Springs area of Yellowstone National Park.

How to get there:

The trailhead for Beaver Ponds is located just north of the Mammoth Hot Springs thermal area on Grand Loop Road. Although there is no designated parking lot for Beaver Ponds, there is plenty of parking throughout the Mammoth Hot Springs area. You'll find the trailhead between Liberty Cap and an old stone house near the general store and bathrooms.

The Hike:

The hike begins with a steady climb along Clematis creek. After the initial 350 foot climb you'll come across a junction for Sepulcher Mountain. Keep right at the junction toward Beaver Ponds. Continue through meadows of wildflowers until you reach the ponds at approximately the 2.5 mile mark. You’ll pass by several small scenic ponds, all of which are worthy of a photo opportunity. After the ponds, the trail emerges into a large open area with stunning views of the surrounding mountain range. The trail eventually links up with Old Gardiner Road and finishes just behind Mammoth Hotel.

The trail is well marked and maintained. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Bison, elk and bears frequent the area so remember to keep a safe distance if you happen to come across one. Allow 2-3 hours to complete this 5 mile loop hike.

After the hike, explore the surrounding Mammoth Hot Springs area. We grabbed a snack at the Mammoth General Store and checked out the Albright Visitor Center before heading back to camp.