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Bechler River Guided Backpacking Trips
Yellowstone's Bechler River Trail & The Cascade Corner
Southwest Yellowstone - 5 Days/4 Nights
The Bechler River Trail is tucked away in the remote southwest corner of Yellowstone in a region known as the Cascade Corner and as the name implies, the area contains an abundance of waterfalls in all shapes and sizes. Here you'll find meandering streams crisscrossing large open meadows, waterfalls cascading over ancient lava flows, and bubbling hot springs that provide backpackers with a quiet place to recharge after a long day on the trail. This five day guided adventure is a Yellowstone classic.
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Bechler River Overview
Bechler River Guided Backpacking Trip
Pricing: $1,950 per person
Length: 5 Days/4 Nights
Distance: 39.2 mi/63 km
Trip Type: Guided Backpacking
Average Elevations: 6,500-8,500 ft/1,981-2,590 m
Maximum Elevation: 8,565 ft/2,620 m
Location: Southwest Yellowstone
When to Visit: August-Early September
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Route: Point-to-point
Group Size: 2-7 people
Age Limit: 14+
Scenery: Geysers, Thermals, Hot Springs, Waterfalls, Waterfalls and More Waterfalls!
Potential Wildlife: Elk, Moose, Bison, Black Bear and Grizzly Bears.
QUESTIONS? CALL: +1-406-595-1823
2025 Trip Dates & Pricing
Price includes equipment rentals and backcountry meals and snacks. See the "General Information" section below for additional details.
| Dates | Pricing Per Person |
|---|---|
| Aug 11-15 | $1,950 |
Bechler River Itinerary
Day 1:
Easy - 8.5 mi/13.6 km
From Bozeman we have a relaxing drive of approximately 2 1/2 - 3 hours until we reach the starting point at the Lone Star Trailhead (OK1) just south of Old Faithful. From here it's a flat hike along the Firehole River to Lone Star Geyser. This towering geyserite mound stands nearly 9 feet tall and is one of the largest cone-shaped geysers in the park. From Lone Star we continue south crossing the Continental Divide at Grants Pass, reaching an elevation of around 8,000 ft. (2,438 m). Here we'll follow the tranquil waters of Shoshone Creek to our first campsite at the western edge of Shoshone Lake, the second largest body of water in Yellowstone. After setting up camp our group will spend the evening exploring the colorful and dynamic thermal features of Shoshone Geyser Basin. This remote backcountry destination contains the highest concentration of geysers found anywhere in the world. The perfect way to cap off an exciting first day!
Day 2: Moderate - 6-8 mi/9.6-12.8 km
On day two we continue south along the Bechler River Trail climbing through lush pine forests before reaching our maximum elevation at 8,565 ft. (2,620 m). A large meadow flanks Douglas Knob (optional campsite) and as the trail descends toward Three River Junction and the headwaters of the Bechler River. Here we'll make a short detour to a small but active thermal area for a relaxing soak in the famous hot spring known as "Mr. Bubbles."
Day 3:
Easy -
7-9 mi/11-14.4 km
On day three we enter the Bechler Canyon and begin our trek along the scenic Bechler River. The trail passes a number of prominent features, including the Three River Junction Patrol Cabin, Batchelder Column, the Cascades, Treasure Island as well as Iris and Colonnade Falls. Late in the season this area is filled with wild raspberries ripe for the picking, a welcome diversion for backpackers traversing the canyon.
Day 4: Easy - 6-8 mi/9.6-12.8 km
On day four we cross the northern edge of the massive Bechler Meadows, and with a little luck we may catch a glimpse of the Grand Tetons on the horizon far to the south. Here we change direction again, heading north toward our final campsite near Dunanda and Silver Scarf Falls. At the base of Dunanda Falls there is another small hot spring and an opportunity to soak beside this spectacular 100 ft. (30 m) waterfall. Another picture perfect day!
Day 5: Easy - 6-8 mi/9.6-12.8 km
On our last day we have an easy hike along Boundary Creek through grassy meadows and lodgepole pine forests to the trailhead at the Bechler Ranger Station (9K1). Here we'll say goodbye to this remote region of Yellowstone and catch our shuttle back to Bozeman, Montana. The drive will take approximately 3 - 3 1/2 hours with stops in Ashton, ID and West Yellowstone, MT along the way.
Please Note: This trip may originate in the Bechler Region and travel in a south to north direction. The route is determined by the availability of the backcountry campsites.
General Trip Information
Guest Reviews
Muriel D.
"Our family spent a week in Yellowstone with Brian. We love trekking and wanted to be immersed in the wilderness. He was the perfect guide for the experience. The kids really enjoyed the trip because he made them discover the amazing landscapes, hot springs, geysers and wildlife. Brian is really flexible and adapts to the rhythm of a family. The organization is just perfect. I just hope we get to do it again!"
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