Thing to Do

Barronette Ski Trail

Yellowstone National Park

Skiers travel along a trail through a forest with mountain peaks rising above the trees.

NPS / Addy Falgoust

The Barronette Trail is an easy 3.5 mile (5.6 km) one-way section of the Old Cooke City road that winds through conifer forest. The trailheads are located at the upper and lower Soda Butte bridges on the Northeast Entrance Road, 3 and 6.5 miles (4.8 and 10.5 km) respectively from the Northeast Entrance. The trail lies mostly in conifer forests beneath Barronette Peak. Although misspelled, the peak is named for Jack Barronett, an early Yellowstone guide and army scout. Barronett also constructed and operated a toll bridge over the Yellowstone River near Tower Junction during the Cooke City mining period. The trail offers some spectacular mountain scenery and consistent snow conditions. Check for current conditions especially avalanche conditions and, in late winter, grizzly bears.

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.

Details
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 trailheads are located at the upper and lower Soda Butte bridges on the Northeast Entrance Road, 3 and 6.5 miles (4.8 and 10.5 km) respectively from the Northeast Entrance.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information

This skier-tracked easy trail follows the Old Cooke City Road and winds through conifer forest. The trail elevation gain/loss is 189 feet. Service dogs allowed with backcountry access permit.

Yellowstone National Park

Tags

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.

  • Two cross country skiers glide on freshly groomed ski tracks near Old Faithful.
    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.

  • Two cross country skiers appear over a small hill during a snow storm.
    Winter Safety

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

  • A lone visitor enjoys castle geyser from a snowy boardwalk just before sunset.
    Winter Wonderland

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

Two backcountry skiers look onward with mountain views in the background.
Skiing & Snowshoeing

Make tracks in a winter wonderland.

Tags

Last updated: April 21, 2025