Thing to Do

Riverside Ski Trail

Yellowstone National Park

A lone skier makes their way along the Madison River on the Riverside Ski Trail.

The Riverside Ski Trail provides several easy options to ski along the Madison River and enjoy views of both the Gallatin and Madison mountain ranges. Boundary Street to loops: 1 mile (1.6 km) Downriver loop, full: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) Downriver loop, short: 2.2 miles (3.5 km) Upriver loop: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) Trailhead: In West Yellowstone, east side of Boundary Street at Madison Avenue. The first mile is through forest to the loop trail junctions above the Madison River. The upriver loop (right), provides panoramic views of the Madison River and the Gallatin Range. The downriver loop (left), crosses open forests and meadows along the river. A cutoff trail shortens the trip by 1.3 miles (2.1 km). Return to the trailhead via the approach trail. Look for elk, bald eagles, and waterfowl. The first two miles may be occasionally groomed for classic ski tracks.

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 segment skied, fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent along the trail.
Easiest
Pets Allowed
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
The trail begins on the east side of Boundary Street at Madison Avenue.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information

This easiest system of trails includes a segment that is occassionally machine groomed at the start. Service dogs allowed.

Yellowstone National Park

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Last updated: April 21, 2025