About This Route
Starting in West Yellowstone, Montana, the Riverside Trail snowshoe route parallels the Madison River for 4-6 miles of intermediate terrain through lodgepole stands and open riverbanks. Access via town trails leading into Yellowstone; connects to groomed paths but stay aside per NPS rules. Features geothermal steam, trout under ice, and views toward Hebgen Lake. Moderate 300-foot gain suits day trips with shuttle options.
Safety Considerations
Watch for thin ice on river edges and hydrothermal blowouts; probe suspect snow. Moose and bison frequent; 25-yard minimum. Variable weather includes lake-effect snow; check Gallatin NF forecasts. Avoid ski tracks to prevent conflicts. REI Co-op stresses hydration despite cold.
Essential Gear
Atlas Helium snowshoes, Komperdell poles, The North Face Summit Series jacket, Sealskinz socks, Julbo goggles, and Zoleo satellite communicator.
Emergency Tips
Evacuate toward West Yellowstone amenities; use 911 if signal. Warm extremities first in frostbite.