Elephant Back Loop is 3.6-mile-long loop trail that climbs up the steep east slope of Elephant Back Mountain until it reaches the spot with one of the most beautiful views of Yellowstone Lake.

Most of the trail goes through a forested area, but about a mile and half along the trail, as you approach the edge of the plateau, the trees clear out, opening up to a spectacular view of the lake and the Absaroka Range.

Most of the trail is fairly easy, except the last 300-foot-long steep portion just before the top of the wide plateau. This area is favored by grizzly bears and you will see notices at the start of the trail to be careful.

They have at times forced the closure of the trail to avoid dangerous close encounters. The trailhead is on the Yellowstone National Park main highway, between Lake Village and West Thumb.

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