About
Length (round trip)11 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain400 ft up
Typical time2 hr
TrailheadBuck Hill or Painted Canyon, South Unit
SurfaceCreek bottom and prairie, many crossings
Best seasonMay to October. Bentonite clay turns to grease when wet, so avoid the backcountry after rain in any season.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek🦌 Wildlife🎒 Backpacking

A long creek-bottom route across the South Unit, thick with bison and prairie dogs.

Tips
You will meet bison on this trail and they have right of way - give them at least 100 yards and be ready to detour widely. Not a route for anyone unprepared for that.
Location

Buck Hill or Painted Canyon, South Unit

🎒 What to pack

This trail is set up for backpacking, so it's worth packing for a night out as well as the walk.

Other Hikers
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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.