Bannock Ski Trail (U.S. National Park Service)

The Bannock Trail is a mostly flat through mature forest.

The Bannock Ski Trail is a 2 mile (3.2 km) easy ski that follows the old road bed that once used to supply the mining town of Cooke City, Montana. Begin at Warm Creek picnic area, one mile west of the Northeast Entrance. This trail takes its name from the Bannock band of the Shoshone, who used this route to reach the buffalo grounds of the Great Plains. After crossing Soda Butte Creek, the terrain is mostly flat and the trail traverses open meadows and mixed conifer forests. You will reach the North Absaroka Wilderness approximately one mile (1.6 km) from the trailhead. At two miles (3.2 km) you come to Silver Gate, Montana. From here the road bed is used as a snowmobile route and is good skiing to Cooke City, 3 miles (4.8 km) to the east.

Notes: Bison and elk frequent this trail. Federal regulations require you to stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from bison and all other wild animals.

Check out the ski trail details and accessibility information at the bottom of this page.

The duration will vary depending on fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent along the trail.

Easiest

Qualified service animals are welcome throughout the park and in all park facilities. However, they must be leashed and under your control at all times. This trail requires a backcountry access pass for service animals.

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

The trail begins at Warm Creek picnic area and ends in Silver Gate, Montana.

This skier-tracked easy trail follows a fairly flat old road after crossing a narrow bridge over Soda Butte Creek at the trailhead. The trail elevation gain/loss is 132 feet. Service dogs allowed with backcountry access permit.

Pillows of snow top rocks and trees along Soda Butte Creek as seen from the Bannock ski trail.

Northeast Skiing & Snowshoeing

Discover skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in the northeast part of Yellowstone National Park.

Ski Trail Information

With miles of ski trails to enjoy, start your trip planning here and confirm conditions at the Mammoth or Old Faithful Bear Den Ski Shop.
Winter Safety

Prepare for cold air, deep snow, and slippery boardwalks.
Winter Wonderland

Ready to brave the cold? Check out our tips for enjoying Yellowstone in winter.