Best For
Casual bike rides, family outings, and history-focused walks.
Yellowstone Shortline Trail
US
Hiking Area·Scenic, Peaceful, Accessible, Educational
The Yellowstone Shortline Trail is a beautifully maintained rails-to-trails project that provides a smooth, wide asphalt path for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning approximately nine miles, the trail is largely flat, making it an excellent choice for families and casual riders. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of a nearby stream and stop at various historical placards that detail the legacy of the old Yellowstone Short Line railroad. It serves as a peaceful alternative to highway travel for those exploring the area. Please note that the trail is designed for non-motorized use, and visitors are encouraged to carry bear spray as a standard safety precaution in this region.
The Yellowstone Shortline Trail is a beautifully maintained rails-to-trails project that provides a smooth, wide asphalt path for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning approximately nine miles, the trail is largely flat, making it an excellent choice for families and casual riders. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of a nearby stream and stop at various historical placards that detail the legacy of the old Yellowstone Short Line railroad. It serves as a peaceful alternative to highway travel for those exploring the area. Please note that the trail is designed for non-motorized use, and visitors are encouraged to carry bear spray as a standard safety precaution in this region.
You might want to ask
Address
Iris St,West Yellowstone, MT 59758, USA
Highlights
Wide, newly paved asphalt surface
Informative historical markers about the Yellowstone Short Line
Beautiful stretches running alongside a clear stream
Flat terrain suitable for all fitness levels
Before you go: Yellowstone Shortline Trail essentials
The trail is strictly for non-motorized bikes; e-bikes are currently prohibited.
The trail is a work in progress, so check for current completion status before heading out.
Be prepared for wildlife encounters by carrying bear spray.
Currency
USD $
Average Cost
$50-$150 p/day
Time of Day
Morning, Lunch, Afternoon
Languages Spoken
English
Occasion Tags
Family, Casual Exercise, Locals, Tourists
Reviews
4.0
Great27 reviews
The Yellowstone Shortline Trail is highly regarded by visitors for its smooth, wide, and well-maintained asphalt surface. Reviewers frequently praise the flat terrain, noting it is ideal for families and non-motorized cycling. The inclusion of historical placards along the route is a highlight, providing interesting context about the area's railroad history. Many users appreciate the scenic beauty of the path, particularly the sections that run alongside a clear, flowing stream. However, there is significant frustration among some visitors regarding the strict prohibition of e-bikes, which has led to negative experiences for those who traveled specifically to ride the trail. Despite this, the general consensus is that the trail is a fantastic, accessible addition to the West Yellowstone outdoor scene.
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Location
West Yellowstone, Montana, United States
