Skip to main content
ForestMatters, LLC

South Fork Loop

Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming · 3 min read

Distance
9 mi
Elevation Gain
2,000 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
8 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
Google MapsApple Maps

Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Dramatic Absaroka Range scenery including volcanic cliffs and forested canyon
  • South Fork of the Shoshone River, a designated blue-ribbon trout stream
  • Loop format allowing varied terrain on approach and return
  • Grizzly bear and wolf territory in active greater Yellowstone corridor

Overview

The South Fork of the Shoshone River cuts through the Absaroka Range in a canyon of volcanic cliffs, lodgepole pine, and riverside willow. This 9-mile loop uses two parallel drainages to make a circuit through some of the most accessible genuine wilderness in the Shoshone National Forest, gaining 2,000 feet over the course of the day.

The Absaroka Range is predominantly volcanic in origin the cliffs that tower above the South Fork are rhyolite and andesite, eroded into dramatic formations that look different from the granite landscapes of the Beartooth Plateau. This volcanic character shapes the canyon's color palette: rust, ochre, and dark gray against the deep green of the conifers.

This is core grizzly bear territory. The South Fork drainage lies within the most densely populated grizzly country outside Yellowstone itself, and wildlife encounters are a genuine possibility throughout the hike. Bear spray is the USFS-recommended precaution; carry it within reach and know how to use it. See the USFS Shoshone Forest website for current bear activity advisories before your trip.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3: Trailhead to Canyon High Point

From the trailhead, the loop trail climbs the initial drainage with a moderate-to-steep grade through lodgepole forest. The canyon walls become more dramatic as the trail gains elevation, with volcanic formations increasingly visible above the treeline. By mile 2.5, the first canyon viewpoints open with views back toward the Wapiti Valley. The high point of this leg at approximately mile 3 reaches the ridgeline between the two drainages.

Miles 3 to 6: Ridge and Descent

From the ridge, the trail traverses open terrain with views into the South Fork canyon below and the Absaroka peaks beyond. The descent into the return drainage is gradual at first, then steepens as the trail drops back into forest. A side creek crossing at approximately mile 5 may require careful footing in wet conditions.

Miles 6 to 9: South Fork and Return

The final three miles follow the South Fork corridor downstream through the most scenic river section of the loop. The river is accessible at multiple points, and this section is the best for wildlife watching and fishing access.

When to Visit

July through September is the reliable hiking season. Snow can linger on the ridge in early July. Fall (September-October) brings elk rut activity and autumn color in the aspen groves, making it a compelling shoulder-season option.

Before visiting, check current conditions and fire restrictions using the conditions-checking guide.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry the following for the South Fork Loop:

  • Bear spray, immediately accessible (not buried in pack)
  • 2-3 liters of water with filter for refilling from streams
  • Rain gear; Absaroka storms can develop quickly
  • Trekking poles for the descent
  • Fishing gear and Wyoming license
  • Bear canister if camping overnight

Individual needs vary.

Practical Details

No permit is required for day hiking as of 2026. Dispersed camping is permitted in the national forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles. Fires may be restricted during dry periods check current restrictions.

The trailhead has a vault toilet facility.

Getting There

From Cody, Wyoming, drive west on US-14/16/20 approximately 25 miles, then turn south on South Fork Road. Follow South Fork Road approximately 15 miles to the trailhead. The road is paved to the campgrounds and gravel beyond. From Cody, allow approximately 45 minutes total.

Trailhead Parking

South Fork Trailhead off South Fork Road, approximately 40 miles southwest of Cody, Wyoming. Gravel road access. Parking for 15-20 vehicles.

← Back to Shoshone National Forest

More Trails in Shoshone National Forest

moderatepoint-to-point

Beartooth Highline Trail

12 mi1,800 ft gain
July through September

A 12-mile point-to-point traverse on the Wyoming side of the Beartooth Plateau in Shoshone National Forest, traveling above 9,000 feet through open alpine terrain with panoramic views and requiring a vehicle shuttle.

4 min read

moderateout-and-back

Carter Mountain Trail

5 mi1,600 ft gain
June through October

A 5-mile out-and-back to the slopes of Carter Mountain in the Shoshone National Forest south of Cody, Wyoming, gaining 1,600 feet through sagebrush and forest to open ridgeline views over the Bighorn Basin.

3 min read

moderateout-and-back

Clarks Fork Trail

8 mi1,200 ft gain
June through October

An 8-mile out-and-back along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River through the Clarks Fork Canyon in Shoshone National Forest, offering moderate canyon hiking with dramatic volcanic cliffs and blue-ribbon river fishing.

3 min read

moderateout-and-back

Elk Fork Trail

7 mi1,400 ft gain
June through October

A 7-mile out-and-back along Elk Fork Creek through the Wapiti Valley corridor of Shoshone National Forest, offering moderate forest hiking with fishing access and wildlife viewing in prime elk and grizzly habitat.

3 min read

strenuousout-and-back

Rattlesnake Mountain Trail

6 mi2,400 ft gain
June through October

A strenuous 6-mile out-and-back to the summit area of Rattlesnake Mountain in the Shoshone National Forest, gaining 2,400 feet through sagebrush and pine forest to exposed ridgeline views over the Bighorn Basin.

3 min read

moderate-hardout-and-back

Upper Wind River Trail

12 mi1,800 ft gain
July through September

A 12-mile out-and-back along the upper Wind River drainage in Shoshone National Forest, climbing 1,800 feet through high-country terrain near the Wind River Range's northern terminus with views of Wyoming's highest peaks.

4 min read

moderate-hardout-and-back

Washakie Wilderness via Wiggins Fork

10 mi2,000 ft gain
July through September

A 10-mile out-and-back into the Washakie Wilderness through the Wiggins Fork drainage in Shoshone National Forest, gaining 2,000 feet through remote Absaroka Range terrain in Wyoming's largest wilderness area.

4 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the South Fork Loop appropriate for beginners?
The moderate-hard rating reflects the sustained 2,000-foot elevation gain and loop length. This route is appropriate for hikers with regular trail experience but may be demanding for those new to mountain hiking.
Is there a ford on the South Fork Loop?
Depending on route and seasonal conditions, the loop may require a shallow ford of a side creek. During spring runoff, water levels can be high check current conditions with the South Fork Ranger District before visiting in June.
Are grizzly bears common in this area?
Yes. The South Fork drainage is active grizzly bear territory within the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Bear spray is strongly recommended and should be immediately accessible throughout the hike.
Can I fish the South Fork?
Yes. The South Fork of the Shoshone is a designated blue-ribbon trout stream with strong populations of brown and rainbow trout. A Wyoming fishing license is required.
What is the loop direction clockwise or counterclockwise?
Either direction is possible. Most hikers prefer counterclockwise, taking the steeper climb early while legs are fresh. Clockwise offers a gentler initial grade followed by a steeper descent.