Ribbon Lake Trail
A varied Canyon-area hike through Clear Lake's thermal landscape to Lily Pad and Ribbon lakes.
Route overview
Cross South Rim Drive, pass the Clear Lake junction and follow signs to Ribbon Lake; return directly or via the official signed loop.
Ribbon Lake Trail links forest, lakes and hydrothermal terrain south of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The primary route returns the same way, while an official alternative can connect toward Artist Point and the South Rim Trail. Clear Lake's thermal ground makes strict trail adherence essential.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
- Distance
- 9.3 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 3–4 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Rolling profile; exact total not published on source page
- Best season
- Summer through early autumn
- Trail type
- Out and back, with an optional signed return loop
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Hydrothermal crust, wildlife, route junctions, thunderstorms and wet trail
Highlights
Ribbon Lake, Clear Lake, Lily Pad Lake, Artist Point option
Why find a buddy
Partners improve junction management and reinforce strict stay-on-trail behavior around thermal ground.
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.