Hikes/United States/Wyoming/Yellowstone National Park

Ribbon Lake Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
176 m
User Ratings
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The Ribbon Lake Trail is a gorgeous hike in Yellowstone. This route features scenic waterfalls and valley overlooks. This route is moderately challenging but still considered family-friendly.

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Route Description for Ribbon Lake Trail

The Ribbon Lake Hiking Trail is a lovely route in Yellowstone National Park. This trail can get quite buggy, especially in the early summer. We strongly recommend bringing along bug repellent or wearing long layers to combat the mosquitoes. With stunning views the whole way and relatively easy terrain, this route is a fantastic way to spend the afternoon exploring Yellowstone National Park with loved ones.

To hike the Ribbon Lake Trail, begin at the Artist Point Trailhead and follow the path northeast. Take a quick stop at Artist Point and check out the incredible views of Yellowstone’s Lower Falls before continuing onwards. Follow the path along the canyon then take the first trail on your right to cut south down to Lily Pad Lake. From the south end of Lily Pad Lake, take the trail on your left to hike the last mile east to Ribbon Lake.

Explore the shores of Ribbon Lake and enjoy a snack on the water’s edge before heading back to the trailhead the way you came.

If you are looking for more to see in the area, check out the North Rim Trail along the Yellowstone River Canyon.

Getting to the Ribbon Lake Trail Trailhead

This hike begins at the Artist Point Trailhead on South Rim Drive.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    4R1-Ribbon Lake West

  • When to do

    June to September

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Ribbon Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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