Slough Creek Trailhead (2K5)

Returning to the trailhead

Quick Facts

Location:

Tower Area

Amenities

3 listed

Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead

From the Slough Creek Trailhead you can embark on the following trail:
- Slough Creek Trail

There is abundant parking, including a parking area for horse trailers. This is a popular trail. During the winter, the gravel road is closed to vehicles. Park in the parking area just off the main road near the vault toilets and ski or snowshoe in to the trailhead.

Slough Creek Trail
This 3.4-mile (5.4-km) there-and-back trail follows a historic wagon trail into the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness beyond Yellowstone. It begins with a steep climb then descends to the first meadow. Stop and relax here or continue to the second meadow. Be alert for bears and moose. Slough Creek is a popular fishing area. Optional route: Continue down the trail another 2.6 miles (4.2 km) to the second meadow, making the total hike 8.6 miles (13.6 km). If you encounter horses or horse-drawn wagons, move to the downhill side of the trail and remain still until they have passed. CAUTION: Grizzly bears frequent this area.

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.