Yellowstone National Park: Shoshone Lake via DeLacy Creek Trail
Visit the black sand beaches of Shoshone Lake, the largest backcountry lake in Yellowstone National Park, on this scenic 6.1-miler just minutes from Old Faithful.
Roughly ten minutes east of Old Faithful, this rolling, 6.1-mile out-and-back to Shoshone Lake is perfect for Old Faithful visitors looking to stretch their legs away from the crowds. From the parking area next to Grand Loop Road, cross the highway and pick up the DeLacy Creek Trail.
The path immediately descends to creek level and enters thick woods carpeted with grass. Cruise beneath shady trees, then hike across open plains to the black sand beaches of Shoshone Lake, the largest backcountry lake in Yellowstone National Park. Take a dip in the lake, or explore the network of trails that surround it. When you’re ready, turn around and retrace your route back to the parking area.
MORE PARK INFO: Yellowstone National Park, (307) 344-7381; nps.gov/yell/.
-Mapped by Jeff Chow
Trail Facts
- Distance: 9.8
Waypoints
DEL001
Location: 44.446773, -110.70111
From the parking area next to Grand Loop Road, carefully cross the highway and pick up the DeLacy Creek Trail on the other side; the path immediately descends to creek level. Next, follow the wide footpath that enters thick woods carpeted with green grass.
DEL002
Location: 44.440625, -110.698489
The trail travels across small boardwalks under thick canopy.
DEL003
Location: 44.435174, -110.697491
Cross a small stream that flows through an open meadow. Continue hiking south, skirting the edge of the meadow all the way to Shoshone Lake.
DEL004
Location: 44.421781, -110.700645
Cross the field (slight descent). Look for coyotes in the open.
DEL005
Location: 44.410585, -110.695571
Get your first glimpse of Shoshone Lake; the trees obscure its immensity.
DEL006
Location: 44.408439, -110.695297
Black sand beaches of obsidian (volcanic glass) flank the north shore of Shoshone Lake, the second largest lake in Yellowstone. Keep an eye out for mallards and sandhill cranes that live in this area. To add more mileage to your hike, explore the network of trails that surround the lake. To add more fun, jump in!
First Glimpse of Shoshone Lake
Location: 44.41047, -110.695482
DeLacy Creek Trailhead
Location: 44.446603, -110.701706
DeLacy Creek Trail
Location: 44.443881, -110.700937
DeLacy Creek
Location: 44.440429, -110.698113
Golden Meadows
Location: 44.434811, -110.697278
First Glimpse of Shoshone Lake
Location: 44.410585, -110.695453
First Glimpse of Shoshone Lake
Location: 44.410355, -110.695474
Trail Sign
Location: 44.408621, -110.695147
Shoshone Lake
Location: 44.408608, -110.695144
Shoshone Lake
Location: 44.408594, -110.695142