Old Faithful to Shoshone Lake Backcountry Road

This restricted-access road starts behind Old Faithful’s visitor complex and punches eight miles through prime grizzly habitat to Shoshone Lake, Yellowstone’s largest backcountry water body. The route passes DeLacy Creek Hot Springs and follows the original stagecoach road used before the Grand Loop was built, crossing thermal areas where the ground temperature can crack axles if you’re not careful. Park regulations limit this road to official vehicles and permitted research groups, but special access can be arranged for scientific or educational purposes through Yellowstone’s backcountry office.

Easy driving on maintained gravel when dry, but the real challenge is getting permission — this isn’t a casual weekend trip. The road requires advance permits, escort vehicles, and strict adherence to wildlife protocols since this corridor sees heavy bear traffic. Best accessed May through October when thermal activity is manageable. No camping allowed on the road itself, but Shoshone Lake offers backcountry camping with proper permits. What you get is access to Yellowstone’s wildest thermal features and fishing for native cutthroat in waters most visitors never see.