Are dogs allowed on Lamar Valley Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Lamar Valley Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Lamar Valley Trail?

No, Lamar Valley Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Lamar Valley Trail?

Lamar Valley Trail is rated easy. It is 1.9 miles long with 400 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Lamar Valley Trail?

Lamar Valley Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

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EasyOut and Back

Yellowstone National Park/Wyoming

Lamar Valley Trail

Cooke City, Wyoming

1.9 mi

Distance

400 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 32m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

America's Serengeti - open valley trail offering the best wildlife viewing in the park. Wolves, bison herds, grizzly bears, and pronghorn are commonly spotted.

Trail Conditions

Open

Updated Apr 19, 2026 — may be out of date

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weather

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:307-344-7381
Address:2 Officers Row, Yellowstone National Park Headquarters · Yellowstone National Park, WY · 82190

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

Wolf watchingBison herdsGrizzly bearsPronghornOpen valley views

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

OpenStreetMap

Lamar Valley Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

Nearby Trails

Sheep Falls

Republic Pass Trail

Woody Falls

Cooke City OHV Area

Mount Washburn Trail

Daisy Pass

Other trails in Yellowstone National Park

Fairy Falls Trail

Mount Washburn Trail

Uncle Tom's Trail

Bunsen Peak

Lone Star Geyser Trail

Gibbon Falls

Campgrounds near this trail

Pebble Creek Campground

Cove Boathouse

2S2-Hornaday Creek - Yellowstone NP Back Country Campsite

2S3 Slough Creek - Yellowstone NP back country campsite

Cougar Cabin

2S6 - Yellowstone NP backcountry campsite

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Devil's Tower Trail

Red Beds Trail

Turtle Rock Loop Trail

Eadsville Trail

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