Roosevelt Arch — Gardiner Entrance to Yellowstone National Park

The Abandoned Railroad Bed Bike Trail offers a unique touring cycling experience along a historic railway corridor just outside Yellowstone National Park. As you ride, you'll parallel the Yellowstone River, enjoying picturesque views with Electric Peak in the distance, all while keeping an eye out for wildlife like pronghorn, elk, and bison in the high desert landscape. The trail is mostly level and easy, making it accessible for many, but its gravel and dirt surface means a mountain or gravel bike is best.

Planning your visit means being prepared for the unpaved surface; a mountain or gravel bike is recommended, and tire sealant can be a lifesaver against cactus. You might need to walk your bike for a short, unmarked section at the start. Crucially, this area is home to black and grizzly bears, so always carry bear spray and maintain a safe distance from all wildlife.

This trail is a fantastic example of a rail-trail conversion, repurposing an old railway line into a recreational path. Its location near the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park provides stunning natural views and a chance to cycle a route that once brought visitors and supplies to the famous park, blending history with the region's unique ecosystem.