Last updated: March 28, 2024
Thing to Do
Pelican Valley Trail
![People on horseback ride through a field of sagebrush with mountains in the distance.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/0786E585-EA40-277C-4A5B5DBCE2278DDD.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
NPS / Ashton Hooker
You are entering some of the best grizzly country in the lower 48 states. The trail heads north, crosses a few bridges through a meadow, then enters the forest. After it leaves the forest, it ascends a small hill to a nice overlook of the valley, with the creek below and the Absaroka Mountains to the east. From here, the trail turns slightly to the right (east) and passes through a small hydrothermal area. Stay on the trail through this fragile and hazardous area. Soon, the trail veers north (left), crosses a small creek, and climbs up a cut bank. This is a good place to enjoy the views of Pelican Creek. The trail continues one mile further to a washed-out bridge.
Safety notes: Many restrictions apply to this trail because it is in prime grizzly bear habitat: Closed until July 4th (Bear Management Area closure), day-use only from 9 am–7 pm, groups of four or more hikers recommended, and off-trail travel prohibited on the first 2.1 miles (3.4 km). Check the Backcountry Situation Report for current information.
Trailheads: Turn onto the gravel road 3 miles (4.8 km) east of Fishing Bridge Visitor Center; park at end of road.
More on Day Hikes in Yellowstone
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Yellowstone Backcountry Situation Report
Current conditions for Yellowstone National Park trails & campsites.
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Safety in Yellowstone
Prepare yourself to safely enjoy wildlife, hydrothermal areas, and other features of Yellowstone National Park.
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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)
Lace up your boots and explore some of the over 1,000 miles of trails in Yellowstone National Park.
![Hikers rest and look out at Yellowstone Lake from atop a mountaintop.](/common/uploads/grid_builder/thingstodo/crop16_9/F64BCF6D-1DD8-B71B-0B9DF88F14D43237.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Explore trails that traverse a variety of Yellowstone ecosystems and provide stunning views of Yellowstone Lake.