Sportsman Lake Trail, located near Mammoth, offers hiking and backpacking into Yellowstone's backcountry. During the trip you will pass under Sepulcher Mountain and Electric Peak before arriving at Sportsman Lake.

Some hikers recommend planning a 4 day trip on this route, this allows one day to climb Electric Peak, a great side trip. A drawback of the Sportsman Lake Trail is the long vehicle shuttle. A more favorable option may be to arrange the hike with two parties, swapping keys when you meet going opposite directions.

Backpacking:
Yellowstone has a designated backcountry campsite system, and a Backcountry Use Permit is required for all overnight stays. Each designated campsite has a maximum limit for the number of people and stock allowed per night. The maximum stay per campsite varies from 1 to 3 nights per trip. Campfires are permitted only in established fire pits. Wood fires are not allowed in some backcountry campsites. A food storage pole is provided at most designated campsites so that food and attractants may be secured from bears. Neither hunting nor firearms are allowed in Yellowstone's backcountry.

Permits may be obtained only in person and no more than 48 hours in advance of your trip.Permits are available from most ranger stations and visitor centers. In order to obtain the best information on trail conditions, permits should be obtained from the ranger station or visitor center nearest to the area where your trip is to begin. The Backcountry Use Permit is valid
only for the itinerary and dates specified. Backcountry travelers must have their permits in possession while in the backcountry.

Directions: From The North Entrance, Travel south to Mammoth Park Headquarters. One option of access the Sportsman Lake Trail follow the Beaver Ponds Trail to the Sepulcher Mountain Trail junction. At the junction travel 11 miles to the summit of Sepulcher Mountain before dropping off the mountains south west side and reach

Elevation: 7,300 feet

Elevation Gain: 2,980 feet

Distance: 23.2 miles

Difficulty: Strenuous

Visitor Information

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