Mallard Lake Ski Trail

A lone skier breaks trail along the Mallard Lake Trail near the trailhead.
The Mallard Lake Ski Trail is a skier-tracked, more difficult, forested trail with steep sections through a canyon ending at Mallard Lake.

NPS / Bianca Klein

The Mallard Lake Ski Trail is a 6.8 mile (10.9 km) round-trip, skier-tracked, more difficult trail taking skiers on a steep climb to views of Mallard Lake. Beginning near Snow Lodge, the trail follows Mallard Lake/Kepler Cascades Trail across the Firehole River bridge. At the trail junction, the trail goes left through the forest and climbs to Mallard Lake, with some steep sections and sidehills. Beware of avalanches. This trail is not recommended in very icy conditions. The Mallard Creek trail junction is approximately 0.2 miles (0.3 km) before the lake. Return downhill to Old Faithful the same way.

Notes: CAUTION: recommended for advanced skiers only due to steep terrain. 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. Stay on boardwalks and designated ski trails. The ground is unstable in hydrothermal areas.

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

Mountain views from the saddle at the top of the Divide Ski Trail.

Skiing and Snowshoeing in Old Faithful

The Old Faithful area offers a variety of ski and snowshoe trails suitable for all ages, abilities, and interests.

More On Ski Trails in Yellowstone

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

Skiing & Snowshoeing

Make tracks in a winter wonderland.

Details
The duration will vary depending on skier fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent along the trail.
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 permit for service animals.
 
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
The trail begins near Snow Lodge following the trail that leads to Mallard Lake/Kepler Cascades across the Firehole River Bridge.
Accessibility Information

This skier-tracked more difficult trail includes steep terrain. The trail elevation gain/loss is 760 feet. Service dogs allowed with backcountry access permit.

Last updated: January 29, 2018