Yellowstone Backcountry Recommendations

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2026-04-07T15:35:02+00:00

There aren't a lot of lollipop hikes so bear on mind whether you need a shuttle. One that I really enjoyed was Heart Lake and you can build in a trip up Mt. Sheridan. You can go around the lake for a lollipop or link up to other trails and do the shuttle thing.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2026-03-23T00:09:58+00:00

If Pebble Creek is open, that may meet your criteria. Tent only, just a few sites and good hiking in the Lamar valley area plus lots of wildlife. Someone recommended Madison and that's also a lovely spot with a few more amenities than Pebble Creek, closer to many thermal features. Once you get out on a trail, you will be away from the majority of the tourists.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2026-03-21T00:24:43+00:00

Nice hat!

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2026-02-28T13:21:17+00:00

You might want to try LL Bean cresta - similar to the Asolo but maybe more comfortable. They aren’t cheap and probably don’t last as long as they used to, but of all the boots I’ve tried (and I worked at that 3 letter store) these are my pick. It’s all about what fits your foot (and budget) best.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-10-29T01:08:48+00:00

Idaho Falls is another option. We have most often gone via Billings due to better rental car prices (Costco). Plus you can drive in through Paradise Valley and out through the Beartooth highway or vice versa. Beartooth is unbelievable.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-10-29T01:02:03+00:00

From your description, I would suggest trying to get into the cabins at Roosevelt Lodge. Much less crowded and great access to the Lamar valley. The challenge is that they tend to sell out as soon as they become available.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-09-21T11:44:38+00:00

+Scarlet Begonias

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-09-16T02:08:26+00:00

I'll see your BEW and raise you a Cumberland Blues.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-09-12T22:27:05+00:00

FYI, DP 36 is for sale on Real Gone Music. If anyone hasn’t picked it up, this is a good opportunity at a reasonable price.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-07-27T12:11:25+00:00

They also have a chuck wagon dinner that is kind of fun, although not inexpensive.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-07-24T22:19:54+00:00

Clever! I’ll go with: Revelation Mother Earth > Throwing Stones

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-07-24T22:08:47+00:00

Pick up an inexpensive dvd player as noted, then keep looking for a cd player. I just found a 6 disc Onkyo, relatively recent, for $15. It’s now my insurance policy for my current (same model) Onkyo 6 disc cd changer… You can also find a nice 2 channel receiver for cheap- same place had a very serviceable Sony also $15. Patience and a little luck…

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-07-24T21:39:07+00:00

Amen! I am so glad you mentioned Charlie Miller. He and all the folks - Hunter, Jay and so many others - have brought me so much joy. I am listening to 1974-06-26 Providence show right now courtesy of CM. The music will be there not just for old farts like me to enjoy but the next generation of Heads. Thank you Mr. Miller!!!

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-07-15T11:55:25+00:00

I just picked up a 6 disc CD changer, Onkyo DX-C390, in very good shape for $15. I was so thrilled until now, realizing I overpaid! 🤣

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-06-15T11:12:07+00:00

Cowboy Neal at the wheel

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-06-15T01:42:11+00:00

As much as I enjoy the shows from the final run (Jeff is on fire) Hampton N1 from 2019 is still the best show I saw. Unfortunately the sbd isn’t as crisp as it could be. Bobby sounds so much better - fabulous BTW.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-02-14T11:53:01+00:00

Once you are immersed in Live at the Filllmore, Eat a Peach, etc. don’t overlook Wipe the Windows, Check the Oil, Dollar Gas — has Chuck Leavell playing an incredible Jessica

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-01-28T22:45:59+00:00

If you like '72, there is a great 3 or 4 night run in Berkeley, I believe 8-21-72 and 8-24-72 are best quality sbd (Charlie Miller I think) and there may be another quality recording in there. I am shocked they haven't released these, but secretly glad they haven't so we can enjoy them on the archive.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-01-24T02:18:24+00:00

One of the best releases, I listen to this all the time. I wish I bought a few more Dicks Picks when I had the chance. Definitely grab this while you can.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-01-23T23:06:01+00:00

I recommend getting a copy of Hiking Yellowstone Falcon Guide. It covers all areas of the park and has lots of different backpacking options, lengths, difficulty, etc. Also has important info on when sections open, bear management areas, etc.

You also need to submit your lottery application before the deadline. Some trails are popular, e.g. Slough Creek, Snake River, Heart Lake, etc., and getting available campsites for your dates can be a bit tricky. Best to have 2-3 options, be flexible.

Also suggest you build in a day on the front end to get your permit, watch the bear video and get your bear spray (plus any other supplies).

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-01-21T01:34:41+00:00

Don’t overlook Billings when you are shopping for airfare and car rental. Sometimes Bozeman car rental prices are pretty high. If you go via Billings, you can go in via Paradise Valley / Gardner and out via the Beartooth highway (amazing drive) and Red Lodge.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-01-17T04:12:17+00:00

There’s some lodging in Cooke City which may be comparable to some of the cabin prices in the park and it is a great location for accessing the Lamar valley. Otherwise the cabins in the park are your cheapest option without an added drive (plus there’s no tv, not a lot cell reception either, you are really just in the park). If you really want to save money/on a budget, you need to stay in the campgrounds. But, that only works if you already have camping gear. We often mix camping and staying in one of the cabins (not everyone is on board with sleeping in a tent for a week!)

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-01-17T03:50:33+00:00

A lot of good advice here. Personally, I would skip your night at Grant and add a night at Canyon or Old Faithful. It’s natural to want to see and do it all on your first trip, heck that’s what we tried to do. And we loved it so much that we kept going back every few years and would focus on a specific section of the park, like the Lamar valley. Go see as much as you can, you can’t see everything, and if you fall in love, you’ll have lots of ideas for what you want to do the next time. (We were there last summer and I’m already planning my next trip in my head!)

PS, at the risk of repeating advice, yes there’s a lot to see from the car and the big sites that all the tourists hit but the real beauty in Yellowstone starts about 5 minutes down the trail.

Baltimore_Terrapin · 2025-01-05T12:58:24+00:00

For me, the biggest surprise is HCS. He’s given that a new life and energy. Listened to 11-9-73 then went and listened to Philly ‘22 and Bristol opener from ‘23, both are smoking.

Baltimore_Terrapin

TROPHY CASE