Thing to Do

Blacktail Plateau Ski Trail

Yellowstone National Park

A skier travels along a trail with a mountain peak in the distance.

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

The Blacktail Plateau Ski Trail is an easiest to more difficult 8-mile (12.8-km) one-way ski with two trailhead options. This occassionally groomed trail travels open meadows and forests with great wildlife viewing opportunities in winter. This trail may be skied from either end.

Begin 8 miles (13 km) east of Mammoth Hot Springs at a parking area across the road from a self-guiding trail, or at a service road approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) farther east (see map). The trail gradually climbs 900 feet (274 m) in 6 miles (9.7 km) through open meadows to “The Cut”. From here the trail descends 2 miles (3.2 km) down a moderate grade through a spruce-fir forest to rejoin the Mammoth-Tower Road 1.4 miles (2.25 km) from Tower Junction. Broad vistas, elk, deer, coyotes, and occasionally bison may be seen.

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.

The Blacktail Plateau Ski Trail is an easiest to more difficult 8 mile (12.8 km) one-way ski with two trailhead options. This trail travels open meadows and forests with great wildlife viewing opportunities in winter.

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.
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Begin 8 miles (13 km) east of Mammoth Hot Springs at a parking area across the road from a self-guiding trail, or at a service road approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) farther east (see map).
Reservations
No
Season
Winter
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information

This occassionally groomed ski trail follows a dirt road for the entire 8.0 miles (12.8 km). The trail gradually climbs 900 feet (274 m) in 6 miles (9.7 km) through open meadows to “The Cut”. From here the trail descends 2 miles (3.2 km) down a moderate grade through a spruce-fir forest to rejoin the Mammoth-Tower Road 1.4 miles (2.25 km) from Tower Junction. Service dogs allowed.

 

Yellowstone National Park

Tags

Ski tracks lead to a wintery view of Tower Fall.
Tower Skiing & Snowshoeing

Discover skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in the Tower area.

More on Ski Trails in Yellowstone

  • 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