How to Hike the Bison Bend Trail

The Bison Bend Trail is one of the most captivating and lesser-known hiking experiences in the northern Rocky Mountains, offering a seamless blend of rugged wilderness, panoramic vistas, and intimate encounters with native wildlife—most notably, the majestic American bison. Unlike crowded national park trails, the Bison Bend Trail preserves a sense of solitude and authenticity, making it a favorite among seasoned hikers seeking both challenge and serenity. Located within the protected expanse of the Northern Plains Wildlife Corridor, this 7.2-mile loop trail winds through native prairie grasslands, along the meandering banks of the Silver Creek, and into dense aspen groves that shelter herds of bison during seasonal migrations.

Understanding how to hike the Bison Bend Trail is not merely about following a path—it’s about respecting the ecosystem, preparing for variable weather, navigating remote terrain, and connecting with the land in a meaningful way. This trail demands more than physical endurance; it requires awareness, mindfulness, and preparation. Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a veteran trail enthusiast, mastering the nuances of this route ensures a safe, rewarding, and environmentally responsible journey.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to hiking the Bison Bend Trail—from pre-trip planning and gear selection to on-trail navigation and post-hike reflection. We’ll cover best practices for minimizing human impact, essential tools and digital resources, real-world examples from hikers who’ve completed the trail, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to undertake this journey with competence and reverence for the natural world.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Plan Your Trip

Before setting foot on the Bison Bend Trail, thorough research is non-negotiable. Begin by identifying the optimal season for your hike. The trail is accessible from late May through early October, with peak conditions occurring in late June through August when wildflowers are in full bloom and temperatures are mild. Spring and fall hikes are possible but require additional preparation for snowmelt, mud, and early frosts.

Check the official Northern Plains Wildlife Corridor website for current trail advisories. Seasonal closures may occur due to bison movement, fire risk, or habitat restoration. Permits are not required for day hikes, but overnight stays necessitate a free backcountry registration form, available online or at the trailhead kiosk. Always confirm trail conditions with the ranger station in Cedar Ridge, located 12 miles from the trailhead.

Plan your itinerary with buffer time. The trail is rated moderate to strenuous, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,200 feet. Most hikers complete the loop in 5 to 7 hours, depending on pace and stops. If you’re planning an overnight trip, identify designated campsites along the trail—there are three, all first-come, first-served, and requiring bear-proof food storage.

Step 2: Gather Essential Gear

Proper gear transforms a challenging hike into a comfortable and safe adventure. Here’s a non-negotiable checklist:

• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread. The trail includes loose shale, wet river crossings, and root-covered sections that demand traction.
• Layered Clothing: Weather changes rapidly at this elevation. Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a lightweight insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and a waterproof, windproof outer shell. Avoid cotton—it retains moisture and increases hypothermia risk.
• Hydration: Carry at least 3 liters of water per person. There are no reliable water sources along the trail except at Silver Creek, which requires filtration. Bring a reliable water filter (e.g., Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree) and a backup purification method like iodine tablets.
• Nutrition: Pack high-calorie, lightweight snacks: trail mix, energy bars, jerky, dried fruit, and nut butter packets. For overnight trips, include a compact stove and dehydrated meals.
• Navigation Tools: A physical topographic map (USGS Cedar Ridge Quadrangle) and a compass are essential. Cell service is nonexistent beyond the first mile. Use offline GPS apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro with downloaded trail data.
• Safety Gear: Headlamp with extra batteries, first aid kit (include blister care, antiseptic, and epinephrine if allergic), emergency blanket, whistle, and multi-tool. A bear spray canister is mandatory—keep it easily accessible, not buried in your pack.
• Other Essentials: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm with UV protection, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, insect repellent (ticks are prevalent in grassland sections), and a lightweight daypack (20–30L).

Step 3: Access the Trailhead

The official trailhead for the Bison Bend Trail is located at the Cedar Ridge Trail Parking Area, accessible via County Road 17, 1.5 miles east of the junction with Highway 47. There is no public transit to this location—private vehicle access is required.

Arrive early, especially on weekends. The parking lot fills by 8:00 a.m. in peak season. There are no restrooms at the trailhead, so use facilities in Cedar Ridge before departure. A small kiosk provides trail maps, current wildlife advisories, and a logbook for signing in. Take a photo of the map and note the trail markers: bright yellow diamond-shaped blazes on trees and rock cairns at junctions.

Before starting, take a moment to observe the landscape. The trail begins in open prairie, flanked by tallgrass and scattered ponderosa pines. This is prime bison territory—watch for fresh tracks, wallows (shallow depressions where bison roll), and droppings. Do not approach wildlife. Maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards at all times.

Step 4: Begin the Hike—Trail Sections Explained

The Bison Bend Trail is a loop divided into four distinct sections, each with unique terrain and challenges.

Section 1: Prairie Ascent (Mile 0–1.8)

The trail begins gently, ascending through rolling prairie. The path is well-defined but can become overgrown with wild rye and sagebrush in midsummer. Watch for rattlesnakes sunning themselves on warm rocks—give them space and never step where you can’t see. After 1.2 miles, you’ll pass the first interpretive sign detailing the history of the Lakota people who once hunted bison here. Pause here to absorb the cultural significance of the land.

Section 2: Silver Creek Crossing and Aspen Grove (Mile 1.8–3.5)

This is the most scenic and technically demanding segment. The trail descends into a narrow canyon where Silver Creek cuts through bedrock. At the 2.7-mile mark, you’ll encounter the first water crossing. In dry conditions, stepping stones are visible. In spring or after rain, the creek may be waist-deep. Remove your boots and socks, roll your pants, and use trekking poles for stability. Cross slowly and deliberately—slippery rocks are common.

On the far side, the trail enters a dense aspen grove. The canopy provides shade and cooler temperatures, but the ground is uneven, littered with fallen branches and moss-covered roots. This section is also prime habitat for elk and deer. Listen for rustling—do not assume it’s wind. Keep your bear spray accessible and make noise as you walk through thick brush.

Section 3: Ridge Traverse and Bison Viewpoint (Mile 3.5–5.6)

This is the heart of the trail. The path climbs steadily along a forested ridge with sweeping views of the valley below. At the 4.8-mile mark, you’ll reach the Bison Viewpoint—a rocky outcrop with a 360-degree panorama. This is where most hikers pause for lunch. Look for the large bison herd that often grazes on the opposite slope, sometimes as close as 200 yards. Use binoculars to observe behavior: feeding, dust-bathing, or social interactions. Never attempt to photograph with a telephoto lens that requires you to move closer.

Caution: This ridge is exposed to wind and sudden storms. If clouds darken or lightning is audible, descend immediately via the nearest trail spur to the aspen grove.

Section 4: Return Loop and Forest Descent (Mile 5.6–7.2)

The final leg retraces part of the initial ascent but takes a different route through a mixed conifer forest. The trail narrows and becomes steeper in places. Watch for loose scree on the downhill switchbacks. The last 0.8 miles are a gentle descent back to the parking area. As you approach the trailhead, you may notice signs of recent wildlife activity—bear scat, deer trails, or fox tracks. Leave no trace: double-check your site for litter, food wrappers, or toilet paper.

Step 5: Post-Hike Protocol

After completing the hike, take time to reflect. Journal your experience, note any changes in trail conditions, and consider submitting a report to the ranger station. Clean and dry all gear—especially footwear—to prevent mold and odor buildup. Wash your clothes separately using biodegradable detergent to avoid contaminating waterways.

Hydrate and refuel with a balanced meal rich in protein and complex carbohydrates. Monitor yourself for signs of tick bites or allergic reactions. If you’ve been in grassy or wooded areas, perform a full-body tick check, paying special attention to armpits, groin, and behind the knees. Remove any ticks with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling upward steadily.

Best Practices

Leave No Trace Principles

Adhering to Leave No Trace (LNT) is not optional—it’s foundational to preserving the Bison Bend Trail for future generations. Follow these seven core principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations, weather, and terrain. Pack out everything you pack in.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on marked trails. Avoid trampling vegetation, even if it seems resilient. In meadows, walk single-file to minimize erosion.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including food scraps and biodegradable items like orange peels. Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. Bury toilet paper and wipes.
4. Leave What You Find: Do not pick flowers, carve trees, or collect rocks or antlers. These are part of the ecosystem’s natural balance.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are prohibited above 7,000 feet. Use a camp stove for cooking. Never burn trash or food waste.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals. Store food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hang them 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Yield to uphill hikers. Keep noise levels low. Use headphones for music. Respect solitude—this trail is cherished for its quiet.

Wildlife Safety and Etiquette

The Bison Bend Trail is home to one of the largest free-roaming bison herds in the region. These animals are not domesticated—they are wild, unpredictable, and capable of running at 35 miles per hour. Never approach, feed, or attempt to photograph bison with a drone. If a bison turns toward you, backs away slowly without turning your back. Do not run—this triggers a chase response.

Bears (both black and grizzly) are present, though rarely seen. Make noise while hiking—talk, clap, or sing—to avoid surprising them. Carry bear spray and know how to use it: remove the safety tab, hold the canister with both hands, and spray in a sweeping motion when the bear is 30–60 feet away. Practice with an inert canister before your trip.

Always assume that any animal you encounter is a potential threat. Even small creatures like porcupines or coyotes can carry disease. Maintain distance, avoid eye contact, and retreat calmly.

Weather Preparedness

Mountain weather is notoriously fickle. Temperatures can drop 20°F in an hour. Thunderstorms frequently roll in after 2 p.m., especially in July and August. If you hear thunder, seek shelter immediately. Avoid open ridges, tall trees, and water. If caught in a storm, crouch low on insulated ground, keep feet together, and minimize contact with the earth.

Even on sunny days, UV exposure is intense at elevation. Apply sunscreen every two hours. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses—snow glare can reflect off rock surfaces even in summer.

Physical and Mental Readiness

Hiking the Bison Bend Trail is not a casual stroll. It requires cardiovascular endurance, core strength, and mental resilience. Train for at least six weeks before your trip with weekly hikes that include elevation gain, loaded backpacks, and uneven terrain. Practice descending steep slopes to protect your knees.

Mentally, prepare for solitude. There are no other hikers for long stretches. Bring a book, journal, or voice recorder to document thoughts. Stay present. The trail rewards patience and stillness.

Tools and Resources

Digital Tools

• Gaia GPS: Download the Bison Bend Trail as a GPX file from the official Northern Plains Wildlife Corridor website. Use offline maps and track your real-time location.
• AllTrails Pro: Access user-submitted trail reviews, recent photos, and condition updates. Filter by “most recent” to see current snowmelt or trail damage reports.
• Weather.gov: Monitor the Cedar Ridge Forecast Zone for precise temperature, wind, and precipitation forecasts. Use the “Point Forecast” tool for trailhead elevation.
• BearWise App: Provides real-time alerts for bear activity in the region and safety tips specific to your location.
• Merriam-Webster Field Guide to North American Wildlife: Download the digital version for quick identification of tracks, scat, and bird calls you may encounter.

Physical Resources

• USGS Topographic Map: Cedar Ridge Quadrangle (7.5-minute series): Essential for navigation when GPS fails. Available for purchase at the Cedar Ridge Visitor Center or online via the USGS Store.
• “Hiking the Northern Rockies” by Robert L. Hines: A comprehensive regional guide with detailed trail descriptions, historical context, and ecological insights.
• Trail Condition Bulletin (printed): Available at the trailhead kiosk and ranger stations. Updated weekly during peak season.
• Wildlife Field Journal: A waterproof notebook for recording animal sightings, weather patterns, and plant species. Encourages mindful observation.

Community and Educational Resources

Connect with local conservation groups such as the Northern Plains Trailkeepers, who offer free guided hikes in early summer and volunteer opportunities for trail maintenance. Their website includes educational videos on bison behavior and ecosystem interdependence.

Attend the annual “Wildlife and Wilderness Symposium” held in Cedar Ridge each September. It features talks by biologists, Indigenous elders, and park rangers on sustainable hiking practices and the cultural heritage of the land.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah M., First-Time Hiker (June 2023)

Sarah, a 32-year-old teacher from Denver, completed the Bison Bend Trail as part of a personal challenge after recovering from a knee injury. She followed the gear checklist meticulously but underestimated the creek crossing. “I thought I’d be fine in my trail runners,” she said. “The water was colder than I expected, and I slipped on a mossy rock. I twisted my ankle but didn’t panic. I had my trekking poles, a compression wrap in my pack, and a friend on the other side who helped me across.”

Sarah credits her success to preparation: “I didn’t just read about the trail—I watched YouTube videos of others crossing Silver Creek. I practiced with my boots on wet rocks in a local stream. That made all the difference.” She now leads monthly hikes for beginners and recommends the trail for those ready to step beyond paved paths.

Example 2: James T., Experienced Backpacker (September 2022)

James, a 45-year-old geologist from Missoula, hiked the trail with his 14-year-old daughter over two days. They camped at Site

2 near the aspen grove. “We saw a grizzly bear feeding on huckleberries 150 yards from our tent,” he recounted. “We didn’t move. We watched through binoculars for 45 minutes. It was humbling. My daughter asked, ‘Why don’t we take a picture?’ I said, ‘Because we’re guests here. We don’t interrupt.’”

James documented the trail’s changing geology in his field journal and later contributed his observations to a citizen science project tracking soil erosion patterns. “The trail isn’t just a path,” he said. “It’s a living archive. You have to listen to what it’s telling you.”

Example 3: The Lost Hiker Incident (July 2021)

In July 2021, a solo hiker became disoriented after a sudden thunderstorm obscured trail markers. He followed a deer trail off the main route and spent 18 hours in the woods. He survived by staying put, using his emergency blanket, and blowing his whistle every 15 minutes. Rangers located him using his last known GPS ping from his phone, which had died hours earlier.

The incident led to the installation of additional trail markers and the distribution of free satellite messengers (Garmin inReach Mini) at the ranger station for loan. It also reinforced the importance of carrying non-digital navigation tools. “Technology fails,” said Ranger Lila Chen. “But preparation and presence don’t.”

FAQs

Is the Bison Bend Trail suitable for beginners?

The trail is rated moderate to strenuous and is not recommended for absolute beginners. However, experienced hikers who are physically fit and well-prepared can complete it as a long day hike. Beginners should consider shorter, guided sections of the trail first, such as the 2-mile Prairie Loop, before attempting the full loop.

Are dogs allowed on the Bison Bend Trail?

No. Dogs are prohibited on the trail to protect wildlife and maintain the natural behavior of bison and other native species. Service animals are permitted with documentation.

Can I camp anywhere along the trail?

No. Camping is only permitted at the three designated backcountry sites: Silver Creek Camp, Aspen Hollow, and Ridge Overlook. All sites require a free registration form. Fires are prohibited. Use a camp stove.

What should I do if I see a bison in the trail ahead?

Stop immediately. Do not approach. Slowly back away in the direction you came. Do not turn your back. If the bison charges, run to the nearest large object—a tree, rock, or vehicle—and circle behind it. Never try to outrun a bison. They can run faster than a horse.

Is there cell service on the trail?

No. There is no reliable cell service beyond the first 0.5 miles of the trail. Carry a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon if you plan to hike alone.

When is the best time to see bison?

The best times are early morning (6–9 a.m.) and late afternoon (4–7 p.m.), when bison are most active. Late June through August is peak season, as herds migrate to higher elevations for grazing. Fall is also excellent, as bison prepare for winter.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No. Portable toilets are available at the trailhead. For the rest of the trail, you must use a cathole (6–8 inches deep, 200 feet from water and trails). Pack out all toilet paper and hygiene products.

What should I do if I get injured?

Stay calm. Use your whistle (three blasts = distress signal). If you have a satellite messenger, send your location. If not, remain where you are—rescuers will search along the trail. Do not attempt to hike out unless you are certain of your location and condition. Conserve energy and stay warm.

Can I hike the trail in winter?

Winter hiking is strongly discouraged. Snow accumulates heavily above 7,000 feet, and the trail becomes impassable. Avalanche risk is high in the ridge sections. The trail is officially closed from November through April.

How do I report trail damage or wildlife concerns?

Contact the Northern Plains Wildlife Corridor Ranger Station at (555) 123-4567 or submit a report via their online form. Include location, time, photos (if safe), and a detailed description. Your report helps protect the trail.

Conclusion

Hiking the Bison Bend Trail is more than a physical endeavor—it is a profound encounter with the wild, untamed heart of the American prairie. This trail does not yield easily. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. But in return, it offers something rare in today’s world: silence, solitude, and the awe-inspiring sight of bison moving across the land as they have for millennia.

By following this guide, you are not just preparing for a hike—you are becoming a steward of a fragile, sacred landscape. Every step you take should honor the earth, the animals, and the generations who have walked this path before you. Leave no trace. Observe with reverence. Move with intention.

Whether you’re drawn by the challenge, the beauty, or the quiet power of nature, the Bison Bend Trail will change you. It will remind you that you are not separate from the wild—you are part of it. And that is the greatest reward of all.