About This Route
Lone Star Geyser Road provides a 5-mile round-trip gravel adventure from Kepler Cascades on the Old Faithful loop, leading to the explosive Lone Star Geyser in Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin. This NPS-permitted bike route, vehicle-free in summer, features smooth doubletrack suitable for intermediates with 300 feet gain and shady forest single-file paths. Riders reach the geyser platform (dismount required) in 1-1.5 hours, timing eruptions every 3 hours. REI recommends it for family-paced exploration, aligning with park biking rules prohibiting trail extensions.
Safety Considerations
Geothermal hazards near geyser; avoid thin crusts by sticking to road. Black bears common; 100-yard rule, spray ready. Congested parking at start means dodging pedestrians; announce presence. Rooty sections slick when wet from geyser mist; fat tires essential. Heat exhaustion in basin; rest in shade. Odor-proof food storage vital; ravens target jersey pockets. Ride clockwise for safer flow.
Essential Gear
Full-suspension MTB with 140mm travel like Trek Fuel EX, sealed bear canister, hydration vest with 2.5L, Leatherman tool, whistle-integrated helmet, and thermal blanket.
Emergency Tips
Geothermal burn: cool with water, evacuate downhill. Bear maul: fight with sticks. Signal Old Faithful Clinic via 911 or ranger radio.