Heart Lake to Mount Sheridan
Yellowstone Backpacking Guided Tour
Backpacking Gear Included
|Fresh Meals Prepared Daily
|Professional Wilderness Guides
Heart Lake to Mount Sheridan
Yellowstone Backpacking Guided Tour
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Cost:
$1350
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Type:
Backpacking
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Length:
3 days
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Difficulty:
Moderate
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Mileage:
35 miles
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Season:
July – September
Adventure Details
Heart Lake to Mount Sheridan 3-Day Backpacking Adventure
This Yellowstone adventure begins with a scenic hike from Heart Lake Trailhead into the geothermal-rich Heart Lake Basin, where we camp along the lake’s serene northern shore. Day two is dedicated to summiting 10,308-foot Mount Sheridan, a challenging climb rewarded with sweeping views of the Tetons, Absarokas, and Yellowstone’s vast wilderness. Evenings are spent watching alpenglow over the peaks from camp. On day three, we hike back through tranquil pine forests and meadows alive with wildlife, returning to the trailhead with unforgettable memories of backcountry beauty and a hard-earned summit.
Trip Highlights:
- Enjoy the serene landscapes of Yellowstone National Park
- Summit the iconic Mt. Sheridan
- Fish and play in the lakes and rivers
- Experience the Geo-Thermal hot springs that Yellowstone in known for
- Enjoy all-inclusive support: guides, permits, gear, and delicious backcountry meals.
Difficulty: Moderate, with daily hikes of 8–10 miles and river crossings up to knee-deep. Suitable for fit hikers comfortable with multi-day backpacking.
Adventure Itinerary
Day 1: Heart Lake Trailhead to Heart Lake Campsite
Distance: ~9.3 miles, Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft
Experience: After meeting the night before in Bozeman, we shuttle early this morning into the southern reaches of Yellowstone National Park to begin our trek at the Heart Lake Trailhead. The journey begins with a steady climb through lodgepole pine forests, offering glimpses of the sweeping Snake River Valley. As we gain elevation, Mount Sheridan looms on the horizon—a taste of what’s to come. The trail gently descends into the Heart Lake Basin, where geothermal features begin to dot the landscape. We’ll set up camp near the northern shore of Heart Lake, one of Yellowstone’s largest and most scenic backcountry lakes. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the water with stunning views of Mount Sheridan reflected in the glassy lake surface.
Highlights: First views of Heart Lake, geothermal pools along Witch Creek, and backcountry solitude deep in Yellowstone’s wild southern terrain.
Day 2: Summit of Mount Sheridan (10,308 ft)
Distance: ~8.8 miles, Elevation Gain: ~2,900 ft
Experience: After breakfast, we set out for the challenging but rewarding ascent of Mount Sheridan. The climb begins through open meadows alive with wildflowers before transitioning to rugged alpine terrain. As we approach the summit ridge, the views open dramatically, revealing the Absaroka Range, the Teton Range to the south, and the vast wilderness of Yellowstone stretching to the horizon. At the 10,308-foot summit, we take time to soak in a true 360-degree panorama before beginning our descent back to camp. The evening is spent relaxing by Heart Lake, with the golden light of sunset painting the surrounding peaks.
Highlights: Summit views of the Tetons, Absarokas, and Yellowstone; vibrant wildflower meadows; and the challenge of a true alpine climb.
Day 3: Sheridan Creek Campsite to Heart Lake Trailhead
Distance: ~9.3 miles, Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft
Experience: We retrace our steps northward, this time with the morning light filtering through the pines and the peaceful sounds of the backcountry accompanying our hike. The return journey offers one last chance to enjoy Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders and diverse wildlife—perhaps spotting elk grazing in the meadows or an osprey circling above. Arriving at the trailhead, we shuttle back to Bozeman, bringing home not only incredible photographs but the satisfaction of having summited one of Yellowstone’s most iconic peaks..
Highlights: Early morning forest light, possible wildlife encounters, and a final walk through Yellowstone’s geothermal landscapes.
Pickup Locations
Bozeman, MT
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.