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ForestMatters, LLC

Clarks Fork Trail

Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming · 3 min read

Distance
8 mi
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Clarks Fork Canyon with dramatic 1,000-foot volcanic cliffs
  • Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone, one of Wyoming's few designated wild and scenic rivers
  • Excellent brown trout fishing in canyon pools
  • The only designated Wild and Scenic River in Wyoming

Overview

The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone carves a canyon through the Absaroka Range in northwest Wyoming that stands as one of the most dramatic river gorges in the northern Rockies. The canyon walls rise up to 1,000 feet above the river in places, composed of volcanic rock in shades of rust, gray, and dark brown. The river runs clear and fast through the gorge, and the trail that follows it offers a moderate canyon experience very different from the plateau and ridgeline routes that define most of the Shoshone National Forest.

The Clarks Fork is Wyoming's only federally designated Wild and Scenic River, a recognition that reflects both the quality of the fishery and the character of the canyon. The river holds excellent brown trout populations in the deep pools between the whitewater sections, and fly fishing here draws anglers who have been coming to the same pools for decades.

At 8 miles with 1,200 feet of gain, this is a comfortable full-day hike. The canyon provides shade for most of the route, making it more pleasant in hot summer weather than exposed plateau trails. The trail stays close to the river throughout, with multiple access points to the water.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3: Trailhead to Canyon Narrows

From the trailhead, the path descends briefly to the river level before following the Clarks Fork upstream through the canyon. The first mile is the most accessible, with a relatively flat trail close to the water. By mile 2, the canyon walls close in and the route begins to climb above the river on its north bank. The canyon narrows are at approximately mile 3, where the walls are closest together and the river most confined.

Miles 3 to 4: Upper Canyon

Above the narrows, the canyon widens slightly and the trail climbs more steeply to maintain its position above the river. Views back down the canyon from the high point of this section are exceptional. The turnaround at mile 4 is at a natural viewpoint; continuing beyond requires more route-finding and is less well-marked.

When to Visit

June through October is accessible on this trail, with the canyon providing conditions that allow earlier and later use than the high plateau. Spring runoff in May can make the canyon trail wet and the river loud; late June through October is the most comfortable window.

Check current conditions using the conditions-checking guide.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry the following for Clarks Fork Trail:

  • 2-3 liters of water; filter for refilling from side streams (the main river may have upstream contamination)
  • Bear spray (grizzly habitat throughout the drainage)
  • Fishing gear and Wyoming license
  • Trekking poles for sections above the river
  • Rain gear; canyon weather can change

Individual needs vary.

Practical Details

No permit is required for day hiking as of 2026. The trailhead has a vault toilet. Dispersed camping is permitted in the national forest; no camping in the canyon sections designated as Wild and Scenic. Follow Leave No Trace principles.

Getting There

From Cody, Wyoming, take US-14 northwest to WY-292 (Chief Joseph Scenic Highway) north. Follow WY-292 approximately 45 miles north toward the Wyoming-Montana border. The Clarks Fork Trailhead is signed on the left. From Red Lodge, Montana, the trailhead is accessible via WY-292 south from Cooke City.

Trailhead Parking

Clarks Fork Trailhead, accessed from WY-292 (Chief Joseph Scenic Highway) north of Cody, Wyoming. Paved road access. Parking for 10-15 vehicles.

← Back to Shoshone National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Clarks Fork special?
The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone is Wyoming's only federally designated Wild and Scenic River. The canyon it carves through the Absaroka Range contains some of the most dramatic river scenery in the northern Rockies, with walls rising 1,000 feet above the river in places.
Is this trail good for families?
The lower sections of Clarks Fork Trail are popular with families who want to experience the canyon without a significant elevation commitment. The first 2 miles are the most accessible; the upper sections are steeper and more demanding.
Is fishing allowed in the Clarks Fork?
Fishing is permitted with a valid Wyoming license. The Clarks Fork holds strong brown trout populations in the canyon pools. Special regulations may apply to Wild and Scenic River sections check with Wyoming Game and Fish before fishing.
How does the canyon trail compare to approaches from the Beartooth side?
The Clarks Fork Trail is a canyon experience, not a plateau experience. It is lower-elevation, more sheltered, and accessible for more of the year than the high-elevation Beartooth routes.
Are there bears in the canyon?
Grizzly bears and black bears are present in the Clarks Fork drainage. Bear spray is strongly recommended and should be immediately accessible throughout.