DeLacy Creek Trail Hike to Shoshone Lake with Lunch

Yellowstone National Park is famous for its geysers, geothermal features, and iconic wildlife, but for those craving a quieter, more personal connection to its wilderness, the DeLacy Creek Trail Hike to Shoshone Lake offers a perfect escape. This experience takes you off the crowded paths and deep into the park’s less-trodden backcountry, revealing a side of Yellowstone that feels like private wilderness.

While we haven’t personally embarked on this exact tour, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a serene, scenic adventure full of wildflower meadows, lush forests, and peaceful lakes. It’s especially attractive for those who appreciate natural beauty, wildlife, and a good story behind each spot.

Three things to love? The stunning views of Shoshone Lake, the intimate small-group size, and the educational insights from a naturalist guide. The only thing to consider is that this hike requires a moderate level of fitness and some willingness to get a little muddy or wet—so it’s not for everyone seeking a purely leisurely stroll.

This tour is tailored for curious travelers eager to explore Yellowstone beyond the camera-friendly viewpoints, especially those who want a personalized, small-group experience in the wilderness. If you love hiking, wildlife, and discovering hidden corners of national parks, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Small Group Size: Only eight guests per trip, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Authentic Backcountry: 6-mile round-trip hike on DeLacy Creek Trail to the pristine Shoshone Lake.
• Wildlife & Nature: Opportunities to see elk, bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and river otters in natural habitat.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a professional naturalist who shares insights into geology, wildlife, and history.
• Includes Lunch & Equipment: Scenic picnic lunch with scenic views, binoculars, backpacks, and dry bags provided.
• Moderate Fitness Needed: Suitable for travelers with average physical condition who don close-toed shoes and are prepared for outdoor conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the DeLacy Creek Trail Hike

Starting Point & Timing

The adventure begins bright and early at 8:30 am, with the meeting point conveniently located within Yellowstone National Park. From there, your group—limited to just eight people—sets out into the wilderness. This small size means you’ll benefit from personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and soaking up the natural surroundings.

The Journey to Shoshone Lake

The hike is about 6 miles round-trip along the DeLacy Creek Trail, a route that promises an engaging trek through diverse environments. We loved the way the trail transitions from dense forests to open alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, making every step feel like a new discovery.

The trail is gentle enough for most with moderate fitness, but be prepared for some uneven terrain and the possibility of getting muddy or slightly wet—especially if recent rain has fallen. The inclusion of hiking poles and dry bags helps manage the rough patches and keep your valuables safe.

The Destination: Shoshone Lake

Once at Shoshone Lake, you’ll see why it’s considered Yellowstone’s largest backcountry lake without road access. Its tranquil, mirror-like surface offers breathtaking views, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch it early or late in the day when the light is perfect. The lake’s surroundings are surprisingly wild, with dense forests and occasional geothermal features nearby, adding a touch of Yellowstone’s geothermal magic to the landscape.

One reviewer mentioned, “The views were stunning, and it felt like being in the middle of nowhere—completely peaceful and untouched.” The lake’s remote location means you won’t find crowds here, just the gentle sounds of water and wildlife.

Wildlife & Nature Insights

Your naturalist guide will point out the various animals living in the area, sharing stories and facts that bring the landscape alive. Expect to see elk grazing in meadows, bald eagles soaring overhead, and perhaps river otters playing along the shoreline. The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, turning a simple hike into an educational adventure.

Lunch with a View

The highlight for many? The scenic lunch served on the lakeshore. Packaged with care, the meal offers a relaxed moment to sit back, soak in the peaceful surroundings, and reflect on the morning’s adventure. The lakeside setting provides an ideal backdrop, making what might seem like a simple picnic feel like a special treat.

What’s Included & What to Bring

Included in the tour are hiking poles, backpacks, binoculars, dry bags, a professional naturalist guide, and a scenic lunch. These thoughtful inclusions elevate the experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about gear or snacks.

What you should bring includes personal water bottles, rain gear, close-toed shoes that can handle mud or water, hats, sunglasses, bug spray, and sunscreen. The tour doesn’t include personal medical devices or personal items, so pack smartly.

Why the Price Matters

At $150 per person, this experience offers solid value considering the small group size, expert guidance, equipment, and the inclusion of a hearty scenic lunch. Compared to larger, more generic tours, this outing’s personalized nature and focus on wilderness make it a worthwhile expense for lovers of nature.

The Experience and Its Benefits

A Personal Connection to Yellowstone

You’ll love the access this tour provides to Yellowstone’s little-known backcountry. Unlike the busy boardwalks or car-based tours, this hike offers genuine immersion—walking through forests, listening to streams, and feeling the quiet majesty of untouched landscapes.

Wildlife & Nature Photography

If you’re into photography, this trip is an unexpected gem. Early mornings or late afternoons around Shoshone Lake often provide the best light and wildlife activity. The guide’s binoculars and your camera will come in handy for capturing the scenery or spotting distant animals.

Educational & Cultural Insights

The guide’s storytelling goes beyond facts; they share stories about the land’s geology, wildlife behaviors, and how the area fits into Yellowstone’s broader ecosystem. It’s perfect for travelers who want to learn as they explore.

Small Group & Personal Attention

With just eight guests, conversations flow easily, and the guide can tailor the experience based on your interests or questions. As one reviewer noted, “It felt more like a hike with friends who happen to be experts rather than a tourist group.”

Flexibility and Preparedness

While the tour is generally smooth, weather can be unpredictable, and conditions muddy or wet. Being prepared with appropriate gear and a flexible attitude helps ensure a memorable experience, rain or shine.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who are comfortable with a moderate hike and enjoy being outdoors. It’s ideal for those seeking a quieter, more authentic Yellowstone experience, away from crowds and busy roadside attractions. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone wanting to connect deeply with the park’s wilderness.

Those with limited mobility or looking for a purely leisurely tour might find the hike challenging, but for most active travelers, it offers a unique way to see Yellowstone’s less-visible side.

Final Thoughts

The DeLacy Creek Trail Hike to Shoshone Lake offers a rare chance to step off the usual tourist trail and experience Yellowstone’s serene backcountry in a small, guided group. The combination of scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a lakeside lunch makes for a memorable day in nature’s quiet corner.

While the hike does require a modest level of fitness and some outdoor readiness, the payoff is a peaceful, authentic wilderness experience that feels truly special. If you’re eager for a hands-on, intimate adventure in Yellowstone, this tour is a fantastic choice.

It’s especially valuable for those who cherish natural beauty, wildlife, and the feeling of discovering something untouched. The personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide helps turn a simple hike into a meaningful connection with Yellowstone’s wild heart.

FAQ

Is the hike suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
This tour is designed for travelers with a moderate fitness level. It involves a 6-mile round-trip hike over uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility concerns.

What should I wear on the hike?
Close-toed shoes you don’t mind getting muddy or wet are recommended. Dress in layers, and bring rain gear just in case. A hat, sunglasses, bug spray, and sunscreen are also advisable.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to eight guests, ensuring a personal and relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

What’s included in the price?
Hiking poles, backpacks, binoculars, dry bags, a professional naturalist guide, and a scenic lakeside lunch are included. Extra gear like an additional set of clothes and dry bags are also provided.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What wildlife might I see?
Possible sightings include elk, bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and river otters. The guide’s knowledge enhances your chances of spotting animals in their natural habitat.

What is the best time of day for this experience?
The tour starts at 8:30 am, which is ideal for wildlife viewing and enjoying the peaceful morning atmosphere at Shoshone Lake.

How physically demanding is the hike?
Moderate, suitable for most with decent fitness. Be prepared for some uneven terrain, mud, and possibly getting wet.

To sum it up, the DeLacy Creek Trail Hike to Shoshone Lake combines adventure, education, and tranquility in a way that’s hard to beat for exploring Yellowstone’s lesser-known side. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, this small-group journey offers genuine value and memorable sights that will stay with you long after the trip ends.