Heron Pond–Swan Lake Loop
A gentle woodland and wetland loop linking two wildlife-rich ponds near Colter Bay.
Route overview
Heron Pond–Swan Lake Loop in Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
This loop leaves Colter Bay for Heron Pond and Swan Lake through forest and wetland habitat. The route is not steep, yet wildlife encounters are more likely around water and dense vegetation, making bear-aware group travel especially important.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
- Distance
- 5 km loop
- Typical duration
- 1–3 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Spring through fall
- Trail type
- Loop
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Park entrance pass; no day-hiking permit; overnight backcountry permit required if camping
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Bears, moose, wet or muddy ground, insects, roots and wildlife close to the trail
Highlights
Grand Teton National Park, Heron Pond, Swan Lake, wetlands, easy hike
Why find a buddy
A buddy helps make noise, scan wetland edges and respond calmly to wildlife.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.