Wyoming • $2,000 September 6-9, 2027
Lush old-growth forests, large meandering rivers, big mountain views, waterfalls and hot springs constitute the huge Bechler Meadows region of YNP. By September the mosquitoes are gone, there’s a tinge of frost in the air, fall colors are exploding, the fish are biting and the spine-tingling bugle of bull elk in the rut are just a few of the wonders of early autumn in the wild Yellowstone backcountry. Nearly all of Yellowstone’s varied wildlife thrive here. The topography is relatively gentle and the trails are well-maintained. We rate this trip as moderate and its base is Jackson, Wyoming.
We begin this trip at the Bechler Ranger Station in the extreme southwest region of YNP and backpack through the beautiful Bechelr Meadows. Our journey will continue and make its way up to the lower reaches of the Bechler River Canyon for a night’s camp. We then will make our way over to Boundary Creek and set up camp. Once here we will have the option to day hike up to Dunada Falls & hot springs. This will be a lollipop loop and the trip will end back at the Bechler Ranger Station. There is a mid-trip opportunity to soak and cleanse in one of the premier backcountry hot-springs anywhere on Earth!
This backpacking route presents great opportunities for anglers. Each day we will plan to be at camp on the earlier side so you can toss some flies in the water. The Bechler River, Falls River & Boundrary Creek are all world class fishing streams. If you plan to fish on this trip you must provide your own fishing gear and license. We will stop by a fly shop en route to the trail head to get real time information on what the fish are biting on and to purchase flies. Although this is a great route for fishing, it is not a focal point of the trip. Folks who are just looking to get out for several days in this region YNP are welcome as well!
TREK BASE: Antler Inn, 43 West Pearl, Jackson, WY; 800-522-2406 or 307-733-2535.
MEETING TIME: Pre-trip orientation plus safety talk and food & gear hand-out will be at 6 PM the evening prior to the first trip day. Meet in the lobby of the Antler Inn.
TRANSPORTATION: Air service to Jackson, WY; All clients are responsible for getting themselves to and from the airport to Antler Inn. We suggest Uber or any local cab company. Making those arrangements in advance is suggested.
TREK RATING: This trip is moderate. Most of the route is on good trails; the terrain is gently rolling and for many stretches flat. Daily backpacking mileage is 4-6 miles depending upon which campsites we are able to obtain; total mileage is 20-25 (does not include any side day hiking).
ELEVATIONS: 6,500 to 6,800′. Minimal elevation gained. Maximum elevation gain with a pack on is about 300′.
WEATHER: Early fall brings widely varied weather. Clear nights are below freezing with sunny mild days. But we must also prepare for cold rain or snow. Click here for the National Weather Service forecast.
FISHING: The Bechler River, Falls River and Boundary Creek. A Yellowstone fishing permit can be obtained when we enter the park. Please inform us if you plan to fish.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Huge waterfalls, big meadows, unusually lush forests for the Yellowstone Ecosystem, great views of the Tetons. Bathe in natural hot springs! In September, fall colors and bugling bull elk. Wildlife includes bison. The amazing Bechler River Meadows! World class fishing with spectacular scenery!
SPECIAL TIPS: There are black bears and grizzlies, so eschew deodorants and other smelly products. Be prepared for several river and stream fords. Bring a lightweight swimsuit for the hot springs.
STATUS: The Yellowstone backcountry has not been designated Wilderness by Congress due to politics. In 1872 Yellowstone became the world’s first national park.
ITINERARY: This is a lollipop loop route. We will begin and end the trip at the Bechler Ranger Station in the southwest corner of the park. The drive time from Jackson, WY to the trail head at the Bechler Ranger Station is about 2 hours.
Please Note: Because we are flexible and vary the route and camps depending upon conditions, mileages and details including elevations are approximate, not exact.
Book Your Trip!
Space is limited!
Have questions? Call (406) 823-0337
