Yellowstone Branch Line Trail:
Idaho
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Description:
This trail crosses through grizzly bear habitat, and if overnight camps are used along the way, standard practices of properly hanging food, etc. should be followed. Contact the Ashton District Office at 208-652-7442 for information on camping or trail conditions.
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Parking & Trail Access:
The main, south-end access is from the Bear Gulch Trailhead northeast of Ashton, ID. There is a new underpass that was recently constructed under the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway (State Hwy. 47) to access the trail which is less than 1/4 mile from the parking area. The trail can also be accessed from Warm River Campground at the actual southern terminus, but a parking fee is charged by the concessionaire.
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Seasonal Restrictions:
The center portion of the trail is closed to motorized use from May 1st through June 15th to protect a sandhill crane nesting area.
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Reviews: [0 trail ratings]
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This is a great ride but the trail has changed somewhat in the last two years.
By rrobbins on February 07, 2009
I've ridden the length of this trail several times and hiked large portions of it repeatedly. The south end about three miles north of the Warm River campground passes through a short, historic tunnel. The tunnel suffered a cave in recently and the alternative route around the tunnel is sketchy at best. A better route is to follow the Forest Service road that heads to the north just above the Bear Gulch parking lot and follow for about 4 miles to the junction where the trail and the road meet.

About eight miles north of the southern terminus of the trail the trail crosses some very boggy terrain and the best choice is to follow the Forest Service road that runs close by to the east. That road continues next to the trail for about 7 miles or so but a rider can re-enter the trail at almost any point along the route.

The sandy stretch continues for about two miles just south of the Henry's Fork crossing. It's a dig but it doesn't last too long.

There are abundant springs and creeks along the trail so water can purified almost anywhere. Services are available downstream from the Buffalo River and Henry's Fork River crossings. On the Montana side, the sign that says bridge out needs to be taken seriously. At that point, cross the South Fork of the Madison River and take the Forest Service road that follows the river until a few miles from West Yellowstone.

It's a great ride!
Peaceful and relaxing
By Joe on May 05, 2005
"My wife and I have ridden about 30 miles of this trail. The scenery is amazing and we had a great time. There are some soft and sandy spots that make pedaling more difficult, but overall excellent."
Fabulous trail
By Fred on October 22, 2002
I just finished an 11 mile hike along this trail with my wife and a friend. The trail was fabulous. It was a cool day and there was great light for photos. Thanks to the creators of this trail!