Heart Lake to Snake River
Yellowstone Backpacking Guided Tour
Backpacking Gear Included
|Fresh Meals Prepared Daily
|Professional Wilderness Guides
Heart Lake to Snake River
Yellowstone Backpacking Guided Tour
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Cost:
$1750
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Type:
Backpacking
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Length:
4 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 Snake River 4-Day Backpacking Adventure
Join Discovery Treks for a breathtaking 4-day backpacking adventure through Yellowstone’s remote southern wilderness. Starting at the Heart Lake Trailhead, the journey winds through lush forests and geothermal wonders to the shores of Heart Lake, where we’ll camp beneath the towering peak of Mount Sheridan. On day two, we summit Sheridan (10,308 ft), rewarded with sweeping views of Yellowstone Lake, the Tetons, and the surrounding backcountry. The route continues south along the Heart and Snake Rivers, offering quiet solitude, wildlife encounters, and wildflower-strewn meadows. This unforgettable trek ends near the park’s southern boundary—perfect for seasoned hikers and wilderness newcomers alike seeking true Yellowstone adventure.
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: Today is a day for adventure and epic views. After breakfast, we’ll set off with light packs to summit Mount Sheridan, a prominent peak in the Red Mountains that towers over Heart Lake. The trail climbs steadily through lodgepole pine, transitioning into high alpine meadows. The final ascent brings us to a fire lookout at the summit, where we’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Tetons, the Absarokas, and Yellowstone Lake in the distance. After a well-earned summit break, we descend back to camp for a relaxing afternoon, with time for a refreshing swim in Heart Lake.
Highlights: 360-degree summit views, alpine wildflowers, and a peaceful return to camp beside Heart Lake.
Day 3: Heart Lake to Snake River Campsite
Distance: ~10.6 miles, Elevation Gain: ~1,070 ft
Experience: We pack up and head south along the Heart River Trail, entering one of Yellowstone’s most remote and wildlife-rich regions. The trail winds through forested valleys, open meadows, and bubbling geothermal zones, crossing several small streams along the way. Keep an eye out for moose, sandhill cranes, and grizzly tracks near the riverbanks. After a scenic lunch stop, we follow the Snake River downstream to our camp near the park’s southern border, nestled among tall grasses and quiet river bends. Unwind with dinner and reflect on the day’s solitude..
Highlights: Wildlife sightings along the Snake River, steaming hot springs, and serene meadows that feel untouched by time.
Day 4: Snake River to South Boundary Trailhead
Distance: ~5.2 miles, Elevation Gain/Loss: ~300 ft
Experience: On our final morning, we follow the Snake River through rolling meadows and shady forest corridors, gradually making our way to the South Boundary Trailhead near Yellowstone’s edge. This stretch is rich in biodiversity and offers peaceful walking beside one of the park’s most important waterways. After a celebratory snack and trail’s end group photo, we shuttle back to town, filled with memories of summits, hot springs, and backcountry wonders.
Highlights: Snake River’s quiet beauty, wildflower-lined trail, and the sense of accomplishment from completing a truly epic Yellowstone adventure.
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.