Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River wilderness guide
Wild & Scenic River · WY, MT

Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone is renowned for its rugged canyon landscapes and pristine waters, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wild & Scenic River37,0004+ Trails

Designation

Wild & Scenic River

Total Wilderness Area

37,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone is renowned for its rugged canyon landscapes and pristine waters, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River meanders through the northwest corner of Wyoming into Montana, slicing through dramatic canyon landscapes. The river's remote and rugged beauty provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of recreational activities. This river corridor is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and occasionally, grizzly bears. Historically, this river has been integral to Native American tribes such as the Crow and Shoshone. European explorers, including William Clark, camped along its banks during their expeditions. Its designation as a Wild and Scenic River helps to preserve its untouched beauty and allows for ample adventure opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and white-water paddling. The surrounding Shoshone National Forest and Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness add to the allure, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude in a natural setting.

Field Guide · Wild & Scenic River
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Clarks Fork Canyon - A scenic gorge perfect for hiking and photography✦ Wildlife Viewing - Spotting elk, bighorn sheep, and grizzlies✦ Fishing - Renowned for trout fishing along its stretches✦ Box Canyon - A hidden gem offering a unique hiking challenge
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; backcountry permits may be required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Crazy Creek Campground

Located along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, offering a peaceful forest setting.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Silver Gate, Montana
⌖ 21.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Gate, Montana

Silver Gate is a rustic, adventurous entryway to Yellowstone National Park. Savor outdoor tranquility with thrilling adventures like hiking, wildlife watching, and cross-country skiing amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Red Lodge, Montana
⌖ 25.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Lodge, Montana

Red Lodge, Montana is a mountain town with endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking the Beartooth Mountains, skiing at Red Lodge Mountain, or fishing the nearby streams, it's a perfect base for exploring Montana’s rugged landscape.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Wapiti, Wyoming
⌖ 30.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wapiti, Wyoming

Wapiti, Wyoming offers outdoor lovers a quiet base near Yellowstone’s north entrance, with exceptional hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and winter skiing in pristine wilderness.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and wildlife; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Roscoe, Montana
⌖ 31.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roscoe, Montana

Roscoe, MT offers adventurers the chance to hike, camp, and fish in the stunning Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. It's an escape into raw beauty, with breathtaking vistas and wildlife encounters.

Cody, Wyoming
⌖ 35.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, WY, is where the spirit of the Wild West meets adventure. From Yellowstone's wonders to exhilarating rafting, this town is your launchpad for rugged exploration.

Roberts, Montana
⌖ 37.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roberts, Montana

Roberts, Montana is a gateway to rugged prairie and mountain adventures, offering hiking, fishing, and ATV riding in quiet, scenic landscapes. Perfect for travelers seeking wide-open spaces and authentic outdoor experiences.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Advanced/Expert Clinic
ADVEXPEDITION
Billings, Montana
HikingADV Bookable

Advanced/Expert Clinic

Join expert guides in Montana’s Beartooth Mountains for a technical mountaineering clinic designed for serious climbers. Push your limits and sharpen your skills amid stunning alpine terrain.

HikingAges 16+ • 9 Hours • Those who have spent a few winters in the backcountry riding technical terrain!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Float or Wade the Pristine Waters Around Red Lodge
ADVEXPEDITION
Red Lodge, Montana
FishingADV Bookable

Float or Wade the Pristine Waters Around Red Lodge

Guided half- and full-day fly-fishing trips operated by Rock Creek Resort, with rods, flies, waders, transport and a to‑go meal on full days.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
High-Altitude Throttle: Summit X 850N Rentals from Cooke City
ADVEXPEDITION
Cooke City, Montana
SnowmobileADV Bookable

High-Altitude Throttle: Summit X 850N Rentals from Cooke City

An advanced snowmobile rental program in Cooke City offering 1–7 day Ski-Doo Summit X 850N experiences—this guide explains who it’s for, the hours and return rules, and what to expect.

SnowmobilePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip