Hiking the Storm Point Trail in Yellowstone National Park

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Hiking the Storm Point Trail in Yellowstone National Park

In Yellowstone, where geysers hiss and buffalo roam like shadows of the Old West, the Storm Point Trail whispers of a quieter thrill. It’s a modest loop—just 2.3 miles—but don’t let its brevity fool you. This trail packs the kind of wonder that happens when sky kisses water, and the soul gets swept into the embrace.

From Indian Pond, you step into a meadow painted with wildflowers—red, yellow, and purple confetti against the canvas of Yellowstone’s untamed green. Pines line the horizon like silent sentinels (not in our language today!) keeping watch. It’s an easy walk, the kind where your mind drifts while your senses awaken to the symphony of nature around you.

The crescendo comes when you break through to the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Storm Point lives up to its name: jagged rocks frame the shore, and wind whips the water into a ceaseless rhythm, each wave a heartbeat of the lake. On gusty days, it feels as if the lake is breathing, alive with an energy that tingles through the air.

Stand still here. Hear it all. The rustle of lodgepole pines, the chatter of ground squirrels, the distant screech of an osprey. Marvel at the dance of marmots scurrying across boulders. Even the wind carries stories—whispered in gusts that curl around you like a playful spirit.

The loop ends far too soon, pulling you back toward Indian Pond. But you’ll leave with more than memories—you’ll carry a slice of Yellowstone’s soul, tucked quietly into your own.


Adventure Guide Summary

Storm Point Trail

  • Trailhead: Indian Pond, 3 miles from Fishing Bridge.
  • Distance: 2.3 miles (loop).
  • Difficulty: Easy.
  • Features: Wildflowers, forest, Yellowstone Lake views, and wildlife.
  • Tips: Carry bear spray, wear layers, and start early for solitude.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Sama2 years ago
We took our 6 year old on this hike in mid-May and the pine forest part of the trail was still completely snow -packed. He loved it. Zero complaints the entire hike. The scenery is lovely, views phenomenal, decent trail conditions (had to climb over/under 3 fallen trees) and well worth the time
Andy Ng5 years ago
Enjoyable walking trail from the main road to the northern end of Yellowstone Lake. Walk along Indian Pond, pass a few buffalo into the distance and follow the water's edge into a wooded area. Continue onward through and out to the tip with expansive views of the Lake. A note to take caution as this area is slightly desolate so one may encounter wild animals including buffalo and bears.
Mindy McCord3 years ago
10/10 for this hike. Strong smell of pine trees, the pond was super green in color, lots of ducks on it and buffalo. Have to climb over several fallen trees but it was so fun. You can see chunks of hair on the trees and rocks where the buffalo scratched often. Lots of animals on the trial since it seems to be less traveled. Squirls woodpeckers birds. Hike out to the storm point clockwise and back the same way for an easier hike. The last half of the trail to the left has a ton of fallen trees and would be hard for some people to find their way.. Also it's just mostly forest so you will not miss anything by skipping it.
Jesse Franzen3 months ago
Amazing, short and mostly flat hike!
Mac7 months ago
Went here early May. Nice short hike