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Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River wilderness guide
Wild & Scenic River · WY, MT

Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone is renowned for its rugged canyon landscapes and pristine waters, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wild & Scenic River37,0004+ Trails

Designation

Wild & Scenic River

Total Wilderness Area

37,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone is renowned for its rugged canyon landscapes and pristine waters, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River meanders through the northwest corner of Wyoming into Montana, slicing through dramatic canyon landscapes. The river's remote and rugged beauty provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of recreational activities. This river corridor is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and occasionally, grizzly bears. Historically, this river has been integral to Native American tribes such as the Crow and Shoshone. European explorers, including William Clark, camped along its banks during their expeditions. Its designation as a Wild and Scenic River helps to preserve its untouched beauty and allows for ample adventure opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and white-water paddling. The surrounding Shoshone National Forest and Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness add to the allure, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude in a natural setting.

Field Guide · Wild & Scenic River
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Beauty of Beartooth Butte★ 8.5⌖ 4 miHiking
Beartooth Butte

Discover the Beauty of Beartooth Butte

Explore Beartooth Butte in Wyoming's wilderness. Offering unique geological formations and wildlife viewing, this remote spot is perfect for hiking and fishing. Ideal to visit late spring through early fall.

Cascade Adventure at Crazy Creek Falls★ 8.4⌖ 10 miHiking
Crazy Creek Falls

Cascade Adventure at Crazy Creek Falls

Experience Crazy Creek Falls, an enchanting waterfall near Cody, WY. This natural spot is perfect for hiking and wildlife observation. Bring your camera to capture the lush scenery and various wildlife. Ideal for a peaceful day in nature during spring and fall.

Wilderness Wonders: Shoshone National Forest★ 8.7⌖ 11 miHiking
Shoshone National Forest

Wilderness Wonders: Shoshone National Forest

Explore Shoshone National Forest near Red Lodge, Wyoming. Enjoy activities like hiking, camping, and fishing in this diverse landscape. Ideal for adventure seekers, especially in late spring to early fall.

Bears Tooth: A Montana Marvel★ 8.7⌖ 12 miClimbing
Bears Tooth

Bears Tooth: A Montana Marvel

Explore Bears Tooth in the Beartooth Mountains, Montana. Ideal for experienced climbers, this peak offers extreme challenges and stunning views. Hike nearby trails during summer and experience abundant wildlife.

Adventure and Scenic Beauty at Hellroaring Plateau Trailhead★ 8.5⌖ 12 miHiking
Hellroaring Plateau Trailhead

Adventure and Scenic Beauty at Hellroaring Plateau Trailhead

Hellroaring Plateau Trailhead near Red Lodge, MT offers moderate hiking through dramatic alpine landscapes with wildflower meadows and wildlife. Accessible by 4WD, it’s perfect for hikers and photographers seeking quiet, rugged outdoors during summer months.

Clarks Fork Canyon: Nature’s Grand Display★ 7.8⌖ 14 miHiking
Clarks Fork Canyon

Clarks Fork Canyon: Nature’s Grand Display

Explore Clarks Fork Canyon near Cody, Wyoming. With a moderate 10-mile hiking trail, it's perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude. Enjoy fishing and camping with stunning vistas and wildlife sightings.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Clarks Fork Canyon - A scenic gorge perfect for hiking and photography✦ Wildlife Viewing - Spotting elk, bighorn sheep, and grizzlies✦ Fishing - Renowned for trout fishing along its stretches✦ Box Canyon - A hidden gem offering a unique hiking challenge
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; backcountry permits may be required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Crazy Creek Campground

Located along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, offering a peaceful forest setting.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Silver Gate
⌖ 21.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Gate, Montana

A charming gateway to Yellowstone with rustic appeal and abundant wilderness adventures.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Red Lodge
⌖ 25.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Lodge, Montana

A charming gateway to the Beartooth Mountains offering abundant year-round outdoor adventures and rugged mountain scenery.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Wapiti
⌖ 30.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wapiti, Wyoming

A gateway community to vast wilderness and rugged outdoor adventures near Yellowstone, offering year-round access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry activities.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and wildlife; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Roscoe
⌖ 31.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roscoe, Montana

A hidden gem in Montana offering authentic wilderness experiences in the Absaroka-Beartooth Mountains.

Cody
⌖ 35.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cody, Wyoming

A gateway to the Wild West where rugged landscapes and adventure sports converge amid rich Western history.

Roberts
⌖ 37.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roberts, Montana

A quiet crossroads in Montana’s heartland offering rugged rural landscapes and access to wide-open outdoor activities for self-reliant travelers.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone Wild and Scenic River

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Yellowstone Wildlife Safari with Yellowstone Safari Company in CodyCody, Wyoming · 35.93 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Yellowstone Safari Company

Yellowstone Wildlife Safari with Yellowstone Safari Company in Cody

Join the Yellowstone Wildlife Safari in Cody for an up-close look at Yellowstone’s iconic animals in their natural habitat. Led by expert naturalists, this tour offers a rich mix of scenery and wildlife encounters that will leave you inspired and informed. Discover why this guided experience is a top choice for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.

4–6 hours

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Wildlife Safari by Yellowstone Safari Company in Cody, WyomingCody, Wyoming · 36.17 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Yellowstone Safari Company

Wildlife Safari by Yellowstone Safari Company in Cody, Wyoming

Join Yellowstone Safari Company for an intimate, guided wildlife safari through Yellowstone National Park. Perfect for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts, this private tour offers personalized encounters with iconic species like bison, wolves, and bears, set against stunning geothermal scenery. Discover the park’s ecological complexities with expert naturalists as your guides. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure or a unique way to connect with nature, this safari promises unforgettable moments in Wyoming’s wilderness.

8–9 hours

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Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.