Specimen Ridge Trailhead (2K4)

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

Quick Facts

Location:

Tower Area

Amenities

2 listed

Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Trailhead

From this trailhead located just east of the Yellowstone River Picnic Area, you can access the following trails:

• Specimen Ridge Trail
• Agate Creek Trail
• Yellowstone River Overlook Trail

Parking is located on the northern side of the road and the trailhead is on the south side of the road. Use caution crossing the road.

Specimen Ridge Trail

This is a strenuous 17.7-mile (28.5-km) one-way hike that ascends over 3,300 feet (1000 m) up Amethyst Mountain before descending almost the same amount of elevation on the way to the Soda Butte / Lamar River Trailhead. Fording the Lamar River is required to reach the Soda Butte / Lamar River Trailhead, so use caution about crossing the river. Check the Backcountry Situation Report or at a backcountry office before taking the hike to make sure the river is crossable. This hike provides excellent vistas of the surrounding region.

Agate Creek Trail

A moderate 6.7-mile (10.7-km) there-and-back trail through meadows and forest to the confluence of Agate Creek with the Yellowstone River. You may spot bison, elk, and bighorn sheep. CAUTION: Grizzly bears frequent this area.

Yellowstone River Overlook Trail

This moderate 3.8-mile (6.1-km) trail climbs steeply and follows the east rim of the Narrows of the Yellowstone. Look for peregrine falcons, osprey, and big horn sheep. CAUTION: Grizzly bears frequent this area. Trail follows a ridge with steep drop-offs.

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.