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"The Yellowstone Park is something absolutely unique in the world...This Park was created and is now administered for the benefit and enjoyment of the people...it is the property of Uncle Sam and therefore of us all."- President Theodore Roosevelt - Speech dedicating the

North Entrance Arch, April 1903

Destination: Yellowstone National Park

Heart Lake - Snake River Loop

The Wildland Trekking Company, LLC

The Wildland Trekking Company is committed to delivering outstanding hiking adventures to the best desert and mountain regions of North America. Our commitment to this is reflected in our mission statement: To provide exceptional hiking adventures in North America’s most beautiful and wild landscapes, and to contribute significantly to the conservation of these special places. We have over 25 years experience leading unique journeys that have lasting positive impact on people's lives and, as importantly, on the regions and cultures we visit.- Brad, Steve & Scott

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Heart Lake - Snake River Loop

Introduction

Adventurer Charles Cook, on an 1869 expedition to the Yellowstone Country observed: “I sat there in amazement, while my companions came up, and after that it seemed to me it was five minutes before anyone spoke. Language is inadequate to convey a just conception of the grandeur and sublimity of this masterpiece of nature’s handiwork.”

A masterpiece indeed, three years later President Ulysses S. Grant signed the world’s first national park into existence. Today, at 2.2 million acres, the park is home to two-thirds of the world’s geysers and geothermal features, and represents the most biologically diverse mid-latitude mountain ecosystem on the planet. Of course it’s also important as a living legacy to this country’s extraordinary beauty and richness.

The Heart Lake - Snake River Loop is a diverse hike in the southern half of Yellowstone featuring incredible natural history, thermal activity, wildlife viewing opportunities, soaking in hot springs, and an ascent of Mount Sheridan.

Day 1

Shuttle to Trailhead: 3.5-hour driveMileage: 8 milesElevation Gain / Loss: 300 feet / 600 feet Beginning from the Heart Lake Trailhead we’ll enter a burn area from the 1988 fires. Now over a quarter century old, the cleansing, regenerative effects of the fire are clearly evident. Factory Hill (9,607’) dominates the southern view as we ascend a gentle plateau overlooking Witch Creek and Heart Lake. A number of hot springs pour into the creek, raising its

temperature to nearly 200-degrees Fahrenheit! The trail follows Witch Creek through another burn area and then enters a meadow before joining Heart Lake. The largest trout ever caught in Yellowstone (a 43-lb. lake trout) was caught here. Along the lake’s western shore is Rustic Geyser, which is occasionally active.

Day 2

Mileage: 7.0 miles (optional day hike)Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,800 feet each wayThe second day will be spent hiking to the summit of Mount Sheridan. Mount Sheridan was named in 1871 by Captain Barlow after General Philip H. Sheridan, a distinguished soldier who often visited the park and worked in its interest. At 10,308 feet the peak lies a whopping 2,858 feet above Heart Lake. The trail winds its way through meadows and forests up the northwestern shoulder of the mountain. Once atop the peak there are spectacular 360º views of the Grand Teton, Lewis Lake, the Absaroka Mountains, and Yellowstone Lake. Also atop the summit is a fire-lookout - hard to imagine living up here through the summer thunderstorms!

Day 3

Mileage: 11.1 milesNet Elevation Loss: 400 feetFollowing a hearty breakfast we’ll proceed south along Heart Lake’s western shore through open country where wildflowers abound. Hiking directly beneath Mount Sheridan we’ll see a number of characteristic avalanche chutes that exhibit precisely where massive avalanches have swept down on the lake. It is no wonder forests struggle to take hold here.

Once south of the lake we’ll hike through thick forest to the open and marshy glen that holds Sheridan Lake. After passing another lake (the picturesque Basin Creek Lake) we’ll descend to our camp on the Snake River near a number of

Heart Lake from the trail below Mount Sheridan

Wildland group atop Mount Sheridan

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thermal springs. One of these springs flows with a surprisingly high volume and contains beautiful blue algae accustomed to extreme temperature. The spring continues for approximately 1/4 mile before flowing into the Snake River - a fantastic spot for soaking. Those who wish may take advantage of soaking in the springs with a spectacular view of the surrounding canyon.

Day 4

Mileage: 5.6 milesElevation Loss: 300 feetShuttle to Bozeman: 4-hour driveThe final day we’ll hike out along the Snake River to the South Entrance. It is a beautiful 5.5-mile hike through stands of lodgepole pine, spruce, and fir with potential wildlife viewing.

Variations... this route can be done in five days. For a 5-day itinerary we'll stop at Basin Creek Lake to camp on the third night. Basin Creek Lake is a beautiful spot to camp and breaks up the trip nicely by shortening the long hike between Heart Lake and the Snake River. It also allows for more time exploring the area.

Trip itinerary note... all trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including, but not limited to permit availability, extreme weather, and forest fires. Payments are not refundable based on itinerary changes, only on cancellations. We strongly recommend securing trip insurance to cover your travel plans (page 8).

Trip type: backpacking

Difficulty: 3/4 (moderate-strenuous)

Length: 4 or 5 days

Mileage: 25 miles (4 days) or 36 (5 days)

Group size: maximum 5, excluding guide

Pack weight: 30-40 pounds

Price/start dates: see website tour page Meeting time & place: 5 p.m. the day before the trip start date in the lobby of your hotel or the lobby of another guest’s hotel in Bozeman, Montana

Trip conclusion: approximately 7:00 p.m. on the last day

Trip fees include: transportation, park entrance fees, permits, group gear, food (breakfast day 1 through lunch on last day), professional guide

Trip fees exclude: airfare, trip insurance, hotels, gratuity for guide, mandatory 5% fee* and services not specified

*This fee is applied when your reservation is made and is passed through directly to the National Park

Trip Details

Portion of Snake River hot springs

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Travel, Transportation, Meeting & Lodging

Travel

Travel to and from the trip orientation location is not included in the cost of our trips. Please plan on arriving in time for the orientation meeting the day before the trip leaves and depart the day after we return from Yellowstone.

Gateway Cities: Billings or Bozeman, Montana

All Yellowstone trips begin and end from Bozeman, Montana. Bozeman has an airport served by United, Delta, Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines. One can also fly into Billings and drive to Bozeman. It is a 2.5-hour drive from Billings to Bozeman on good roads.

Shuttle

From Bozeman Airport...There is no regular shuttle service from the Bozeman Airport to a downtown location. Best option may be Uber or Lyft or direct contact with a hotel in Bozeman to see if they provide shuttle services. Its about 15-20 min from the Bozeman airport to the Downtown area.

From Billings...Greyhound (800-231-2222) offers transportation from downtown Billings (use a cab to get downtown) to Bozeman. from $23-56 per person one way. Advance reservations required (www.greyhound.com). Meeting Time & Place

We will meet in Bozeman, Montana for an orientation at 5 p.m. the day before the trip starts. We’ll give you a ride to the meeting point if you are staying at one of the recommended hotels.

The orientation includes introductions, a briefing on the trip itinerary, and a checking of personal gear.

Important note: Please bring all gear you plan on hiking with to this meeting.

Transportation To & From The Park

We will pick you up at your hotel in Bozeman at 7 a.m. on the first day of the trip, and provide transportation back to your hotel in Bozeman on the last day of the trip.

Storage of Personal Items

Many guests choose to store any extra luggage with the hotel they’ll be using before and after the trip. You are also welcome to leave any luggage with us for secure storage while you’re on your trip - just inform your guide.

Pre & Post-Trip Recommended Lodging Pre and post-trip lodging is your responsibility. We recommend the below-listed accommodations while in town. Make your reservations early as Bozeman is a tourist community and rooms book early.

Holiday Inn Express Bozeman West discounted rate: $95-149 (may vary depending upon the time of year) tell the front desk you are a guest of Wildland Trekking or click here to redeem your ratephone: 406-582-4995

C’mon Inn (rate: $99-199)phone: 866-782-2717 or 406-587-3555

Hilton Garden Inn (rate: $149-169)phone: 406-582-9900

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Hiker Notes & Equipment ListThe following information includes conditioning recommendations as well as clothing and equipment requirements to help ensure a satisfying experience. All items are designed to better prepare you for your trip and need to be carefully read. If you have any questions after reviewing this information please feel free to contact our office. Also, please pay special attention to any item marked “Important note.”

Training

The enjoyment received from any physical activity is largely dependent on the shape you’re in. Most of the Yellowstone region is above 7,500 feet, and you’ll be hiking over varying terrain in uncertain weather with the load of a backpack.

Important note: Always consult with your physician before commencing with a workout program. If you have any questions, contact our screening team.

We cannot stress enough that the fitter you are the more fun you’ll have. We recommend you prepare for your trip with a training program that addresses your fitness needs and works well with your daily routine. Options include:

Training by Hiking

If you have access to hiking trails and a schedule to accommodate it begin walking and hiking in hilly/steep terrain. Nothing prepares you for a backpacking trip better than the activity itself!

Try to get out at least 3 days a week. Start with short hikes (1-hour in length) with a light daypack. From week to week build the length and difficulty of your hikes and gradually increase your pack weight until you’re comfortably able to hike 6-8 hours a day carrying the weight you’ll have on your trip (refer to your trip packet for exact pack weight). Unless you’re in great shape it is ideal to begin your training at least 12 weeks prior to your trip. Also be sure to use the boots you’ll have on your trip to break them in. Following is how a moderate program may look:

First week of trainingTuesday: 1-hour hike with daypackThursday: 1-hour hike with daypackSunday: 2-hour hike with daypack

Gradually build to:Two weeks before tripMonday: 3.5-hour hike with 20-pound packWednesday: 2-hour hike with daypackThursday: 3.5-hour hike with 20-pound packSunday: 7-hour hike with the weight you’ll have on your trip

Supplemental Training Ideas

There are many other activities that are easily incorporated into your daily life to build your overall fitness. Cross training is also important to strengthen opposing muscle groups and it helps to avoid over-use injuries. Supplemental training ideas include:

• Climb the stairs at your office, house, park, or neighborhood with a backpack. Stair climbing is a fantastic way to simulate backpacking in hilly or steep terrain.

• Bike to work or when running errands. Bike around town or on country roads outside of your town/city. Cycling is a great way to build endurance and strength in your legs.

• Gym activities including step aerobics, treadmill, bicycling, or elliptical trainers to name a few. A modest weight training program focusing on the muscles that support the ankles, knees, back, and shoulders is also beneficial.

• Swimming is a great way to build endurance and cardiovascular fitness and is easy on the joints.

• Walk to work instead of driving. Run your errands by walking and carry your groceries home in a backpack.

• Yoga and/or Pilates classes can build strength throughout your body while also improving your flexibility.

• Intramural sports• Jogging is another option, however if you are not a regular

runner it can easily lead to injuries that backpacking may then exacerbate. Undertake a jogging routine with care.

Other Training Considerations

Flexibility is an important part of training, remember to stretch before and after your workouts. For the two weeks leading up to your trip cut your workouts in half to avoid arriving fatigued. Also for a 72-hour period before your trip commences, ensure that you are consuming sufficient amounts of sodium and fluids. Doctors agree that hikers increase the likelihood of experiencing problems if they are sodium depleted (e.g., follow a low sodium diet) or are dehydrated (due to travel or using diuretics such as coffee or alcohol). If you have any questions at all about your training feel free to give us a call at the number below.

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What You Need To BringClothing ChecklistThe following items are required for your trip. They are a must for your safety and comfort. Because we are hiking in high elevations, weather conditions can change quickly. When packing, think layered clothing systems that work together and can be easily added or removed.

Sturdy Hiking boots, mid weight, sturdy-soled, above the ankle, waterproof and ideally well broken in Important note: Buy your boots 1/2 size to 1 size large to allow for feet swelling and thicker socksWater shoes (such as Salomon®, Teva®, and Keen®, Chaco®) or Old sneakers - supportive, closed-toed, well-drained shoe for river crossings and for a camp shoe. Hiking socks, one pair for every two days of your trip, plus an extra pair to sleep in. Smartwool®, Darn Tough® or similar padded socks (wearing thin liner socks under your hiking socks is highly recommended). No cotton socks!!Gaiters, (optional depends upon time of year, recommended for wet/snowy conditions)Sunhat or baseball cap and bandana Mosquito head net *Warm hat and gloves, lightweight beanie and light-to-mid weight fleece or wool glovesBase Layer/Long Underwear, one pair of wicking tops and bottoms that are light-to midweight, example materials include capilene, merino wool, polypropylene, etc.Hiking shirts - short sleeve and/or long sleeve for sun protection (at least 2), breathable/quick dry materialWarm top, mid-weight shirt, sweater or pullover, also wicking material such as merino wool, fleece or polypropyleneHeavy Fleece or Puffy insulated jacket, warm, lightweight and packable fleece jacket or coat insulated with a synthetic materialNylon pants and/or shorts, or combo pants that can zip off into shortsRainproof jacket and pant - Waterproof/breathable jacket and pant such as Gore-Tex® - with the pants for side leg zippers or a style that will allow you to remove them without removing your boots

Important note: Please, no cotton hiking clothes with the possible exception of a t-shirt, and feel free to call us if you have any questions. For the hard sided water bottle, please make sure it has only contained water (unscented for bear safety). As long as it has never had a scent, this bottle can be in your tent at night.

* Recommended for June/July, usually when there is a significant amount of mosquitos and bugs in the area. Aug/Sept may be needed but will be weather dependent.

Gear Checklist

Water bottles or bladder system, 3 liters total capacity and/or a hard sided water bottle (such as a Nalgene®)Camp pillow, lightweight, packable camp pillowContact lenses and glasses if you wear contact lenses please also bring a pair of glasses - your contacts are likely to become dirty and may be difficult to clean Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balmZiplock or Reusable Bag (for storing toiletries at night)Bug repellent, preferably a product containing at least 25% “DEET” (some people are sensitive to this product)Toiletries, such as bandana/washcloth (bandana can serve as a washcloth), blister care, personal meds, toothbrushHeadlamp, spare batteries (preferably an L.E.D. type that works with AA or AAA batteries) Camera, spare batteries (optional) Notebook or paperback book, (optional)Knee braces, if neededPrescription medicine, please inform your trip leader of any medications you are takingVitamins, (optional) Fly fishing gear (valid license required)Binoculars - lightweight for hiking (optional)Money, for tipping your trip leader (optional but appreciated, generally 10-20% of your trip cost based upon the quality of your experience)

Online Store

Most of the items listed above are available in the Wildland Trekking online store. The store is specifically stocked to support you for your trip and is a convenient way to buy your gear since you can do it from home!

Packing for Grizzly Bear Country

Yellowstone is home to a healthy grizzly bear population and while their presence adds greatly to the park’s wild feel, it is important to be prepared. We’ll discuss hiking and camping in grizzly bear country in detail during your orientation, but a brief note is included here to ensure you pack appropriately.

A grizzly bear’s acute sense of smell can detect food or other attractive odors at great distances. It is important for us to keep a clean camp and avoid carrying fragrant items that may attract a bear. Please do not bring deodorants, shaving creams, perfumes, or scented lotions or soaps.

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Essential items such as toothpaste, lip balm, sunscreen, medications, etc. should be unscented or as mild as possible. Pack these essential items in a sturdy zip lock bag to minimize odor. These items will be hung nightly in the bear hang (food and other fragrant items are hung in stuff sacks well off the ground to prevent grizzly bear tampering, collectively called the bear hang).

What We Provide

Guide Your tour will be led by a trained, experienced professional with a solid guiding background, years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes.

Important note: Guides are required to take 8 hours of each 24 hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time/etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents uninterrupted for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ time off and sleep time unless there is a true (life threatening) emergency.

Group Gear

We provide top-of-the-line backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, trekking poles, stoves, cookware, bowls, cups and utensils. Guides carry an Emergency Satellite Phone, water treatment resources & Company issued First Aid Kit.

We also provide bear spray for each guest (18 years of age or older ). We’ll address the topic of bear safety during our first meeting and again at the Trailhead.

Food

We provide a diversity of foods containing the necessary nutrition for sustained energy output. Meals are made from staples that travel well in the backcountry - rice, pastas, lentils, beans, couscous, oatmeal, granola, etc. Meals are also supplemented with trail foods such as crackers, cheese, granola, energy bars, fresh and/or dried fruit, and energy drink mixes.

We regularly accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and will make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee. In addition to your personal belongings, you will be responsible for carrying a portion of the food.

Important note: It’s critical that you include your dietary needs in your registration - it’s too late once you’ve arrived!

Group Travel

If you're joining a scheduled hiking tour you'll be hiking with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Please carefully examine the trip materials and difficulty prior to registering so that you can select a trip that matches your ability level. We make every effort to match the abilities of our group members however it is inevitable that individuals will vary in this regard. Consider that the trip may be a once in a lifetime opportunity for your fellow travelers and it is important to respect each guest's individual condition, needs, and desires. If you need assistance selecting the right trip we are happy to help.

FYIThe following are various Yellowstone regulations of interest:

• All wild animals are potentially dangerous – approaching or feeding wildlife is prohibited.

• Animal calls, audio attractants or other means of attracting or disturbing wildlife are prohibited.

• We must pack out ALL trash, including toilet paper.• Pets are prohibited in the backcountry. • Fishing requires a valid Yellowstone National Park fishing

license. Please discuss your desire to fish with our Adventure Consultant team or your guide when they contact you as some routes have limited options or time for fishing. Tackle must be lead free.

Recommended Reading

Animal and Field Guides

For Everything There is a Season, Craighead, Frank C. 1994. A general field guide to the region by one of its most respected biologists.

Grizzly Years, Peacock, Doug. 1990. A fascinating account of the author's evolving relationship with bears and the wilderness they represent.

The Wolves of Yellowstone, Phillips, Michael K. & Douglas W. Smith, 1996.

The Return of the Wolf to Yellowstone McNamee, Thomas. 1998.

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Yellowstone National Park

The Yellowstone Story, (2 Vol.) Haines, Aubrey. 1977. The definitive history of the region by the late park historian.

Searching for Yellowstone: Ecology and Wonder in the Last Wilderness, Schullery, Paul. 1997.

Empire of Shadows. Black, George. 2013

Thank You!

The Wildland Trekking Company is dedicated to delivering an exceptional travel experience that exceeds your every expectation. We believe that travel is one of life’s great joys and take seriously our role in helping you create a trip of lasting memories.

In addition to our role as your travel partner and guide we are dedicated to the promotion of stewardship and conservation in the regions we visit. One of our primary goals as a business is to use the business as a tool toward long-term sustainability of the environment and its people.

If there is anything we can do to further inform or help you in preparation for your upcoming adventure please do not hesitate to contact us. Thanks for the opportunity to serve you and we look forward to seeing you soon!

To join any Wildland Trekking Company trip, simply call 1-800-715-4453 (HIKE) and talk to one of our Adventure Consultants. Alternatively, email us at hike@wildlandtrekking.com and we’ll get back to you in a timely manner.

Payment Schedule: A $500 deposit is required to secure your spot. The trip balance is then due 60 days prior to your trip start date. Final acceptance of any participant is subject to receipt and review of all required forms and documents, and payment.

Cancellation Policy: All Wildland Trekking Company trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances. Please click here for information on trip itinerary changes and alternative dates.

Wildland Trekking reserves the right to cancel any trip due to a variety of circumstances. Please click here for additional information for trip cancellations. If you cancel or leave a trip for any reason:-90+ days prior to the trip start date: A full refund will be granted if you cancel within 10 days of making your reservation. After 10 days from your first payment we will grant you a full refund, less a $250 per person administrative fee. -89-60 days prior to the trip start date: full refund minus a $500 per person administrative fee.- 59-30 days prior to the trip start date: a refund of 50% of the trip cost. -Less than 30 days prior to the trip start date

or once trip has begun: there will be no refund.

Transfer Policy: If you transfer from one trip to another:- 60 days or more there is no additional fee - between 59 and 30 days prior to the trip start date,

there will be a $100 processing fee per reservation.- Less than 30 days prior to the trip start date,

regular cancellation and refund policies will apply.

Trip Insurance: For your protection, we strongly recommend the purchase of trip insurance. It will protect you against financial loss in the event of trip cancellation or interruption, medical expenses, travel delay, emergency evacuation or other circumstances. Travel insurance is underwritten by International Medical Group.

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Nearing the summit of Mount Sheridan

v11 Jan 2020