Howard Eaton Trailhead (OK2)

Quick Facts

Location:

Old Faithful Area

Amenities

2 listed

Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Trailhead

This trailhead is located just south of the Old Faithful Area. It is access via a trail from the Old Faithful Area. This trailhead provides access to four trails, two of which start at the trailhead and two more that start at Lone Star Geyser.

• Howard Eaton Trail: Old Faithful to Lone Star Geyser
• Fern Cascades Trail
• Bechler River Trail
• Lone Star Geyser Trail

Howard Eaton Trail: Old Faithful to Lone Star Geyser

A moderately easy, 6.3-mile (10.1-km) there-and-back trail and heads over a burned hill, through a spruce-fir forest, and to Lone Star Geyser.

Fern Cascades Trail

A moderate 3-mile (4.8-km) loop trail that provides views of the cascades. This trail is a popular ski trail during the winter season, though there are steep slopes that can be difficult to ski.

Bechler River Trail

A classic, strenuous roughly 30-mile (48-km) one-way backpacking trail in the southwest part of the park that leads past waterfalls and hydrothermal features. The trail starts at either the Bechler Ranger Station or at Lone Star Geyser.

Lone Star Geyser Trail

This relatively flat, pleasant 5.4-mile (8.7-km) there-and-back trail follows an old service road beside the Firehole River to the geyser. Lone Star Geyser erupts up to 45 feet (13.7 m) from a 12-foot (3.6 m) cone approximately every three hours.

Backcountry Regulations

Permit required for fishing, boating, riding, and overnight camping. More information at the Center Backcountry Office: [phone].

Hiking

Hike in groups of 3 or more; keep your group together. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Know your route, carry a map, and be able to navigate. Do not hike after dark. Stay on established trails; off-trail travel prohibited in thermal areas.

Fishing and Boating

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) inspection required for all watercraft including boats, float tubes, and stand up paddle boards. Felt soles prohibited.

Riding and Packing

Proof of negative Coggins test within last 12 months required.

Food Storage and Camping

These regulations apply to ALL backcountry users. Sleep 100 yards (91 m) from your food storage and cooking areas. Do not leave food, trash, toiletries, backpacks, coolers, water bottles, or any potential attractant unattended. Store food in an approved bear resistant container or hang on a food pole 10 feet (3 m) above the ground and 4 feet (1 m) from sides. Carry a minimum of 35 feet (11 m) of rope. Campfires allowed only in designated campsites within established fire rings. Extinguish campfires completely before leaving site.

Follow LEAVE NO TRACE travel and camping techniques. Enjoy the backcountry and help keep it clean for others to enjoy. Bury human waste and toilet tissue in a 6–8 inch (15–18 cm) deep “cat hole” at least 100 feet (30 m) from water and trails.

River Crossings

Park waters are swift and cold. Swimming in park rivers is not recommended. River crossings are hazardous.

Lightning Safety

During thunderstorms, descend to lower elevation, avoid open areas and isolated tall trees. Assume lightning position: feet together, crouch on foam pad or sit on pack, hands over ears.

Regulations

• Leave What You Find: Do not collect anything from the park.
• No Pets: No pets on trail. Obtain service animal regulations at backcountry offices.
• No Hunting: No hunting or discharge of firearms.
• No Motorized Vehicles: No motorized vehicles on trails.
• Wheeled Vehicles Restricted: No bicycles, strollers, or wheeled vehicles (except wheelchairs), except where specified.

In an emergency, dial 9-1-1 or contact the nearest ranger station.

Animals are Dangerous

• Do not approach or feed any animal.
• Bison and elk have injured people.
• Stay 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves.
• Stay 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals.

Be Prepared for a Bear Encounter

Grizzly and black bears inhabit all of Yellowstone National Park.

Be Alert: Watch for signs of bear activity: scratches in trees, tracks, scat, or dig sites. Avoid dead animals.

Make Noise: Avoid surprising a bear by calling out and clapping your hands at regular intervals to make your presence known.

Carry Bear Spray: Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Keep it immediately available, not inside your pack.

Hike in Groups: Travel in groups of 3 or more is recommended. Stay with your group at all times.

What to do...

If You Encounter a Bear: Stay calm, do not run. Quietly detour or back away; stop if this seems to agitate the bear. Stay at least 100 yards (91 m) from bears. Do NOT feed bears or other animals.

If a Bear Charges You: Stand still, do not run. Stand your ground and use your bear spray. Spray when the bear is 60 feet (18 m) away or closer. If a bear charges, it may be a bluff charge.

If a Bear Makes Contact: Drop to the ground; play dead. Lie face down and clasp your hands over the back of your neck; stay still and silent. Wait several minutes after the bear leaves before getting up and leaving the area.