Thing to Do

Abandoned Railroad Bed Bike Trail

Yellowstone National Park

Two people bike through a field of sagebrush in front of a mountain.

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

An abandoned railroad bed located near the north entrance of Yellowstone makes a beautiful bike trail.This mostly level dirt trail [8 mi (13 km)] round trip) starts northwest of the Heritage and Research Center in Gardiner, Montana. It follows the abandoned railway bed north paralleling the Yellowstone River between Gardiner and the park’s northern boundary at Reese Creek. Electric Peak will dominate the view to your northwest. Turn around and head back the same way. Keep your eyes open for pronghorn, elk, and bison. Mountain bikes are best for this trail. The area is a high desert and can be hot so make sure to bring along water.

Park at the pullout on the old Yellowstone Road near the Heritage and Research Center. Parking is limited. The trail down to the abandoned railroad bed is not well-marked and you will need to walk your bike until you reach the old railroad bed.

Alerts: Be alert for bears: both black and grizzly bears forage in this area depending on the time of year. Ride with bear spray, have it accessible, and know how to use it. Bison, elk, and pronghorn 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. In addition, keep eyes open for cactus situated in and next to the roadbed. We recommend bringing tire sealant.

Details
The duration will vary depending on fitness level and length of time spent along the trail.
An abandoned railroad bed located near the north entrance of Yellowstone makes a beautiful bike trail.
Leashed pets allowed.
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Near the Heritage Research Center north of the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information

The terrain on this trail is gently sloping. The surface is a gravel and dirt roadbed and railroad bed. It might be possible to access by a hand-cycle. From start to finish, you gain/lose only 96 ft (30m) on this trail. Qualified service dogs are permitted in the backcountry, but travel with dogs in the backcountry is not without risks. Please be aware that having a service animal in the backcountry may put you at increased risk for confrontations with wolves, bears, and other wildlife.

Yellowstone National Park

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Last updated: February 15, 2024