Last updated: June 29, 2018
Thing to Do
Duck Lake Trail
![A small lake surrounded by conifer forest.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/04EB9F37-1DD8-B71B-0B0809AF81CB413B.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
Climb a small hill for a view of Duck and Yellowstone lakes and the expanse of the 1988 fires that swept through this area. Trail descends to the shore of Duck Lake.
Safety notes: Always be aware of your surroundings.
Trailheads: West side of West Thumb Geyser Basin Parking Area.
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
This is a 0.8-mile (1.3-kilometer) there-and-back trail that begins and ends at the same trailhead.
Activity
Hiking
Moderate hike
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
West Thumb Geyser Basin
This trail is located in the southern part of the park, with the trailhead in the West Thumb Geyser Basin parking lot.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Any Time
![Duck Lake A small lake surrounded by conifer trees.](/thingstodo/images/DuckLake_NPS_sm.jpg?maxwidth=1300&maxheight=1300&autorotate=false)
NPS
More on Day Hikes in Yellowstone
-
Yellowstone Backcountry Situation Report
Current conditions for Yellowstone National Park trails & campsites.
-
Safety in Yellowstone
Prepare yourself to safely enjoy wildlife, hydrothermal areas, and other features of Yellowstone National Park.
-
Bear Spray
Read about this highly effective bear deterrent.
![Hikers standing on the rocky top of Avalanche Peak with Yellowstone Lake in the background.](/common/uploads/grid_builder/thingstodo/crop16_9/0038ED04-1DD8-B71B-0B466B2982A30A32.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Yellowstone Day Hikes
Lace up your boots and explore some of the over 1,000 miles of trails in Yellowstone National Park.
![Visitors walking along the West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalk.](/common/uploads/grid_builder/thingstodo/crop16_9/0524553A-1DD8-B71B-0B044682BD6A893C.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
West Thumb & Grant Day Hikes
Explore some of the major lakes of Yellowstone National Park along these trails.