Chain of Lakes Trail
Table of contents
The Chain of Lakes Trail is a scenic point-to-point hiking route in Yellowstone. This route is a great place to see wildlife including elk and bison. With over 16.9 km of trail, this route is a wonderful way to spend quality time in the Wyoming wilderness.
Route Description for Chain of Lakes Trail
The Chain of Lakes Trail is a fantastic route that passes by four stunning lakes in Yellowstone National Park. This is a long hike; if you plan on doing the whole thing in one day, be sure to start early in the morning to avoid finishing in the dark. If you are not keen on a long day, the Chain of Lakes Trail can be broken up into a leisurely backpacking trip by camping at one of the many well-maintained backcountry campsites along the way. No matter how you choose to hike this trail, you will be richly rewarded with incredible views and an abundance of flora and fauna in the Wyoming wilderness.
To hike the Chain of Lakes Trail, begin at the Ice Lake Trailhead and follow the path north to Ice Lake. Loop around the north shore of Ice Lake, then head northeast to Wolf Lake and Grebe Lake. From the eastern shore of Grebe Lake, take the Howard Eaton Trail east to Cascade Lake. Approximately 1.4 km past Cascade Lake, the trail will split; take the path on your right to hike south down to the trail’s end at the Cascade Creek Trailhead.
Getting to the Chain of Lakes Trail Trailhead
This hike begins at the Ice Lake Trailhead and ends at the Cascade Creek Trailhead on Norris Canyon Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Ice Lake South, Ice Lake North, Ice Lake East, Wolf Lake Outlet, Wolf Lake, Grebe Lake Outlet, Grebe Lake North, Grebe Lake East, Grebe Lake Southeast, Cascade Lake West, Cascade Lake North, Cascade Creek
When to do:
July to September
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Chain of Lakes Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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