Beaver Ponds Trail

NPS / Neal Herbert

The trail gains over 350 feet in elevation and rambles through sagebrush meadows and stands of trees. The beaver ponds are approximately half-way around the loop. You might see beavers or their sign, but you are more likely to see muskrats and water birds. Along the way, look for bears, elk, mule deer, pronghorn, and moose.

Safety notes: Grizzly and black bears frequent this area.

Trailheads: North of Liberty Cap, near the stone house or behind Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel at start of Old Gardiner Road.

Details

Duration

2-5 Hours

This is a 5-mile (8.3-kilometer), loop trail that begins and ends in the developed area of Mammoth Hot Springs.

Activity

Hiking

This is a moderately strenuous hike.

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Mammoth Hot Springs

This trail is located in the northern part of the park, with both trailheads in the developed part of Mammoth Hot Springs. One trailhead is located between Liberty Cap and a stone house in Mammoth Hot Springs. The other trailhead is located behind the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

This trail is predominantly a narrow, bare-ground and rocky path. There are several wooden bridges over waterways, one of which is very narrow. Switchbacks are used for most elevation changes, but the grade can be steep in spots. There is at least 350 feet in elevation gain during this hike.

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