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    Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim 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.
    2-2.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    7.6 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.
    161 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail is an easy, scenic hiking circuit in Yellowstone. This trail features incredible views of Yellowstone Falls and Yellowstone Canyon. Expect a moderately challenging but appropriate adventure for lightly experienced hikers and families with adventurous children.

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    Route Description for Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail

    The Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake and South Rim Trail is a wonderful hike with incredible views of the Wyoming wilderness. This trail can get mucky, especially after the spring melt or a fall rainstorm. We recommend wearing waterproof hiking shoes if you head out on a damp day. With varying terrain and incredible views of the Yellowstone Canyon, and the Yellowstone Falls, this trail is a scenic sample of Yellowstone National Park. We suggest bringing along a picnic lunch to enjoy at Clear Lake with family and friends.

    Beginning at the Wapiti Lake Trailhead, follow the Wapiti Lake Trail east to a divide. At this divide, take the path on your left, then take a right to make your way to Clear Lake. From Clear Lake, stick to the path on your left to loop your way around Lily Pad Lake to Artist’s Point. Be sure to stop and admire the view from Artist’s Point before following the South Rim of the Yellowstone Canyon back to the Wapiti Lake Trailhead, where you began.

    Check out the North Rim Trail across the river for a different perspective of the Yellowstone Canyon.

    Getting to the Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail Trailhead

    This hike begins at the Wapiti Lake Trailhead on South Rim Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      May to October

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail Elevation Graph

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    Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail Reviews

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