Bechler River Trek
Yellowstone Backpacking Tour
Backpacking Gear Included
|Fresh Meals Prepared Daily
|Professional Wilderness Guides
Bechler River Trek
Yellowstone Backpacking Tour
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Cost:
$1997
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Type:
Backpacking
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Length:
5 days
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Difficulty:
Moderate to Advanced*
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Mileage:
35 miles
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Season:
July – September
Adventure Details
Bechler River Trail 5-Day Backpacking Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day guided backpacking tour through Yellowstone National Park’s Bechler River Trail, a hidden gem in the park’s southwest corner, known as the "Cascade Corner." This 34-mile point-to-point adventure takes you through lush meadows, towering waterfalls, serene rivers, and soothing hot springs, far from the crowds. With expert guides, all-inclusive gear, and carefully selected campsites, you’ll immerse yourself in Yellowstone’s wild beauty, spotting wildlife like moose, bison, and elk while soaking in the park’s iconic thermal features. Perfect for intermediate hikers, this trip offers moderate daily hikes, breathtaking scenery, and cozy campfire evenings under starry skies. Book now for a bucket-list wilderness experience!
Trip Highlights:
- Witness the dramatic eruptions of Lone Star Geyser, Yellowstone’s largest backcountry geyser.
- Soak in the famous Mr. Bubbles hot springs and other thermal pools.
- Marvel at cascading waterfalls, including Colonnade Falls, Iris Falls, and Dunanda Falls.
- Trek through Bechler Meadows, a haven for wildlife and vibrant wildflowers.
- Enjoy all-inclusive support: guides, permits, gear, and delicious backcountry meals.
Difficulty: Moderate to advanced, with daily hikes of 6–9 miles and river crossings up to knee-deep. Suitable for fit hikers comfortable with multi-day backpacking.
Adventure Itinerary
Day 1: Lone Star Geyser to Basin Bay Point
Mileage: 6.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1000ft gain
Experience:Your adventure begins near Old Faithful at the Lone Star Geyser Trailhead. After a morning meet-up in Bozeman, we’ll shuttle to the trailhead and set off on a gentle 2.5-mile paved path along the serene Firehole River. Our first stop is the majestic Lone Star Geyser, a backcountry marvel that erupts 30–45 feet every three hours—a perfect introduction to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders. After soaking in the spectacle, we’ll continue 4 miles through mixed alpine forests, crossing the Continental Divide at Grants Pass (8,000 ft). Keep your eyes peeled for elk and bison grazing in the distance. We’ll arrive at our campsite at Basin Bay Point (campsite 8G1 or similar), nestled near Shoshone Lake, the largest backcountry lake in the lower 48. After setting up camp, relax with a hearty dinner and enjoy the tranquil evening by the lake, with optional stargazing under Yellowstone’s pristine night sky.
Highlights: Lone Star Geyser’s dramatic eruptions, Firehole River’s crystal waters, and expansive views of Shoshone Lake.
Day 2: Basin Bay Point to Ferris Fork
Mileage: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1300ft gain
Experience:After a hearty breakfast, we break camp and head south along the Bechler River Trail, climbing to the trip’s high point at 8,500 feet—a lush plateau of meadows and dense lodgepole pine forests. The trail descends into the upper Bechler Canyon, where the Bechler River begins at the Three Rivers Junction, the confluence of the Phillips, Gregg, and Ferris Forks. This area teems with wildlife, so watch for moose{ps}moose and grizzly bears. Our highlight today is a visit to Mr. Bubbles, a luxurious hot spring on the Ferris Fork, perfect for an afternoon soak in naturally heated waters. We’ll camp at Ferris Fork (campsite 9D1 or similar), enjoying a relaxing evening by the bubbling thermal stream, surrounded by the peaceful canyon.
Highlights: Three Rivers Junction, Mr. Bubbles hot springs, and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Day 3: Ferris Fork to Colonnade Falls
Mileage: 7 miles
Elevation Gain: 200ft gain
Experience:Today’s hike takes us deeper into Bechler Canyon, a waterfall lover’s paradise. We’ll tackle two knee-deep river crossings (don’t worry—our guides ensure safe passage) and pass the dramatic 45-foot Ragged Falls and Treasure Island. The trail leads to the stunning two-tiered Colonnade Falls, with drops of 35 and 67 feet, and the misty Iris Falls, named for its rainbow-filled spray. We’ll set up camp near Colonnade Falls (campsite 9B5 or similar), just a short walk from the thundering falls, offering a breathtaking backdrop for dinner and storytelling around the campfire. The sound of cascading water will lull you to sleep under a canopy of stars.
Highlights: Ragged Falls, Iris Falls, Colonnade Falls, and the lush, wildlife-rich Bechler Canyon.
Day 4: Colonnade Falls to Dunanda Falls
Mileage: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 240ft gain
Experience:After breakfast, we continue through Bechler Canyon, passing berry-laden boulder fields frequented by black bears (bear spray provided for safety). The trail opens into the expansive Bechler Meadows, where moose and bison roam among vibrant wildflowers. Our destination is the picturesque Dunanda Falls, where Boundary Creek spills over moss-covered cliffs. We’ll camp near the base of the falls (campsite 9A1 or similar), with access to soothing hot springs for a relaxing soak. Spend the afternoon capturing photos of the falls or simply soaking in the serene wilderness. Our final night’s campfire is the perfect time to reflect on the journey and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
Highlights: Bechler Meadows, Dunanda Falls, hot springs, and potential wildlife sightings.
Day 5: Dunanda Falls to Bechler Ranger Station
Mileage: 6.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 330ft gain
Experience:On our final day, we enjoy a leisurely breakfast before packing up and hiking through Bechler Meadows’ lodgepole pine forests and open grasslands. The trail passes the slow-moving Bechler River, offering chances to spot sandhill cranes and coyotes. We’ll ford the river one last time (knee-deep, with guide assistance) before arriving at the Bechler Ranger Station. After a 2.5-hour shuttle back to Bozeman, we’ll say our goodbyes, leaving you with memories of Yellowstone’s untouched wilderness. Optional post-trip group dinner in Bozeman (not included).
Highlights: Bechler Meadows, Bechler River, and distant views of the Grand Tetons.
Pickup Locations
Bozeman, MT (Hotel Details provided after booking)
What to Bring
Our camping and hiking trips include all pro-quality gear and meals required for your adventure. This includes tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cooking supplies, trekking poles, and daypacks and/or backpacks. All meal preparations will be handled by your guide.
We are happy to accommodate food allergies and most dietary restrictions. Please include your preferences in your Registration Form so that we can prepare accordingly.
Gear Included
Discovery Treks tours are all inclusive tours which include:
- All meals from breakfast day 1 through lunch on the final day of your hike
- An experienced Wilderness First Responder Certified Yellowstone Backpacking Guide
- Necessary pro-quality backpacking gear including 65 - 75L Osprey backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, double occupancy tent, bear canister (Single tent upgrade available for $50)
- All permits and fees
July
Don't see a tour date that works for you?
We may still be able to schedule additional tour dates that fall within your travel window.
Please call our office to inquire at 480-247-9266.