The Pelican Valley Trail in Yellowstone National Park

On our last day in Yellowstone National Park, we opted to exit the park through the east entrance, eager to soak in the last of its breathtaking views. We got an early start that day, the sun barely peeking over the horizon, and decided to take one more hike before leaving this magnificent place behind. With our backpacks filled with snacks and water, we chose the Pelican Valley Trail, a path known for its stunning vistas and the chance to glimpse wildlife in their natural habitat.

As we made our way through the park, we discussed how we had hiked through the mountains and along the lake shores. Our hikes in the park had been concentrated in thick forested areas, but we really wanted to hike in one of the open valleys in the park, where the green stretched out beneath the wide blue sky. It was an entirely different experience then our other hikes, filled with wildflowers and stretched out vistas that go on for miles.

So when we saw the Pelican Valley Trail on the map, we knew we had found our trail!

Pelican Valley Trail

The trailhead, starting from the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center, is east on a well-maintained dirt road for about 3 miles. The parking area is across from Indian Pond.

There was plenty of parking places available as this particular flat hike is not known for heavy hiker traffic. If you plan on hiking this trail, expect to see very few other on this trail.

Pelican Valley Trail: 9.8 miles – 462 ft Elevation Gain – Rated 4.4

We primarily walked in the flatlands and open grasses of the basin. The landscape was extraordinary. We often stopped along the way to gaze at the beauty and look for wildlife through our binoculars and saw many animals from a distance.

The valley was lush and green. In many areas, the landscape was filled with wildflowers that were in full bloom. We saw bison and elk along the way, and there was a treat of a bear sighting. The bear was reported to us from someone of the trail.

Be Aware of Heavy Bear Activity

We also had a feeling of potential danger. Pelican Valley Trail has higher risks due to prime grizzly bear habitat. Restrictions include closure until July 4, day-use only (9 AM–7 PM). Groups of four or more recommended, and no off-trail travel for the first 2.1 miles. Bison and thermal areas add hazards. Proper preparation, bear spray, and group hiking reduce risks.

As for Gail and I, we were unaware of the park’s recommendation to travel in groups of four. Even though we had heard reports from other hikers about grizzly bears and wolves sighted on the trail that morning, we continued on the trail. I think we would make other plans if we hiked this trail again.

On our return trip, we spotted two bull elk grazing in the meadow. We stood in silence to watch them for a while. They were mostly interested in eating but would occasionally lift their heads to look at each other.

They locked antlers a couple of times, pushing and pulling in a manner that seemed to be a test between them. Which animal was the more dominant? They would decide.

The hike was one of our favorites from our Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park trip and an experience we will not forget anytime soon. The breathtaking scenery surrounded us at every turn, with open valleys and vibrant wildflowers, the landscape was vivid in colors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our adventure through Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks created dramatic memories for us. The breathtaking vistas, from lush valleys to vibrant wildflowers, presented the possible risk of danger. We departed the park vowing to return one day, eager to experience more hikes, mountains, and streams we missed on our first visit there.