Last updated: February 12, 2024
Thing to Do
Riddle Lake Trail
![A lake covered in lily pads sits in front of a mountain.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/32BC25E4-D230-06A5-AB038101734F477C.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
NPS / Addy Falgoust
Crossing the Continental Divide, hike through small mountain meadows and forests to the shores of a picturesque little lake. Look for elk in the meadows and for birds near the lake.
Safety notes: Trail opens in mid-July (Bear Management Area closure) or later if trumpeter swans are nesting on the lake. Check the Backcountry Situation Report for current information.
Trailheads: Approximately 3 miles (5 km) south of the Grant Village intersection, just south of the Continental Divide sign.
More on Day Hikes in Yellowstone
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Yellowstone Backcountry Situation Report
Current conditions for Yellowstone National Park trails & campsites.
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Safety in Yellowstone
Prepare yourself to safely enjoy wildlife, hydrothermal areas, and other features of Yellowstone National Park.
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Bear Spray
Read about this highly effective bear deterrent.
![Hikers standing on the rocky top of Avalanche Peak with Yellowstone Lake in the background.](/common/uploads/grid_builder/thingstodo/crop16_9/0038ED04-1DD8-B71B-0B466B2982A30A32.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Lace up your boots and explore some of the over 1,000 miles of trails in Yellowstone National Park.
![Visitors walking along the West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalk.](/common/uploads/grid_builder/thingstodo/crop16_9/0524553A-1DD8-B71B-0B044682BD6A893C.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Explore some of the major lakes of Yellowstone National Park along these trails.