Bliss Pass Junction

When you think of camping in Wyoming, the vast, open wilderness and majestic landscapes of Yellowstone National Park likely come to mind. While many visitors stick to the front-country campgrounds, true adventurers know that the park's most profound experiences lie in the backcountry. Bliss Pass Junction, a designated backcountry campsite, offers just that: a secluded and breathtaking escape into the heart of Yellowstone's wild spaces. Tucked away along the famed Pebble Creek Trail, this spot is a haven for backpackers and nature lovers seeking solitude and unparalleled scenic beauty. It's not a place you simply drive to; it's a destination you earn with your boots on the trail, rewarding you with an unforgettable experience far from the crowds.

The name itself, Bliss Pass, hints at the serene and rewarding journey that awaits. This isn't your typical roadside campground with RV hookups and bustling crowds. Instead, Bliss Pass Junction is part of a larger, interconnected network of backcountry trails that winds through meadows, alongside pristine creeks, and over scenic passes. The site is a key junction for those traversing the northeast corner of the park, offering a central point from which to explore iconic areas like Slough Creek. For those in Wyoming looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the state's most famous natural wonder, Bliss Pass Junction is a prime spot to add to your bucket list.

The journey to Bliss Pass Junction begins at the Pebble Creek Trailhead in the northeastern part of Yellowstone, accessible from the scenic Northeast Entrance Road. While the park is vast, finding your way to this specific trailhead is straightforward, as it's a well-known starting point for some of the region's most rewarding hikes. Visitors often access this area through Cooke City-Silver Gate, Montana, or from the Tower-Roosevelt area within the park itself. The trail itself is a significant part of the adventure, guiding you through a diverse landscape that transitions from forested areas to wide, open meadows. Be prepared for a challenging yet incredibly scenic trek.

As a backcountry campsite, accessibility is a key factor. Unlike drive-in sites, Bliss Pass Junction requires a commitment to hiking. It is not vehicle-accessible, which is precisely why it maintains its sense of wildness and tranquility. The journey is an integral part of the experience, offering hikers stunning views and the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Planning your trip well in advance is essential, as the route can be strenuous and requires proper preparation. The site's location makes it a perfect stop for multi-day backpacking trips, allowing you to establish a base camp before exploring other nearby trails and landmarks. Its remoteness is a feature, not a drawback, ensuring that only those truly dedicated to a wilderness experience will make the trek.

• Backcountry Camping: As a backcountry site, Bliss Pass Junction provides designated spots to pitch a tent. It's a fundamental part of the Yellowstone backcountry permit system, ensuring a minimal impact on the fragile ecosystem.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: In accordance with park regulations, the site is equipped with a food-pole or a bear box. Campers are required to properly store all food, trash, and scented items to protect both themselves and the area's wildlife.
• Proximity to Water Source: The campsite is located near a creek, which serves as a vital water source. All water must be filtered or treated before consumption, a standard and necessary practice for any backcountry excursion.
• Designated Fire Rings: For sites where open fires are permitted, a metal fire ring is provided. It's crucial to follow all park rules regarding fire restrictions, especially during dry seasons.

Please note that as a backcountry campsite, services are minimal and designed to preserve the wilderness character of the area. There are no flush toilets, showers, or electricity. Campers must be fully self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles.

• Stunning Scenery: The campsite is situated in a picturesque meadow, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Hornady and Baronette Peak. The views from Bliss Pass itself are famous, overlooking the beautiful Slough Creek.
• Rich Wildlife Habitat: The area is known for its diverse wildlife. Backpackers often report sightings of mule deer, elk, bison, and even bears. This adds a thrilling and authentic element to the wilderness experience.
• Access to Multiple Trails: The "Junction" in the name is well-deserved. Bliss Pass Junction connects to a variety of trails, including the main Pebble Creek Trail and routes leading to Slough Creek. This allows for a variety of day-hiking opportunities from the campsite, making it a perfect hub for exploration.
• True Seclusion: For those seeking to escape the crowds that can frequent popular Yellowstone attractions, Bliss Pass Junction offers genuine solitude. It provides an opportunity to experience the park in its most pristine and peaceful state.
• Fishing Opportunities: The nearby creeks, particularly Pebble Creek, are popular among anglers for their cutthroat trout. A valid Yellowstone fishing permit is required.

Bliss Pass Junction is a backcountry campsite located within the boundaries of Yellowstone National Park. The official mailing address for the park is:

P.O. Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA

For all backcountry permits and general information, you can contact the Central Backcountry Office.

Phone: (307) 344-2160 or (307) 344-7381

As a specialized backcountry site, reservations and permits are required and can be managed through the official Recreation.gov platform. We highly recommend securing your permit well in advance, as these sites are popular among avid hikers and fill up quickly, particularly during the peak summer season.

Choosing Bliss Pass Junction is a choice to fully embrace the wild heart of Wyoming. It's not for a casual day trip or a family looking for a quick and easy camping spot. It's for the prepared, the adventurous, and those who seek the profound connection that only a true wilderness experience can provide. Unlike drive-in campgrounds, this site offers a level of immersion in nature that is becoming increasingly rare. The effort required to reach it is part of its charm; it filters out the crowds and leaves you with an authentic, peaceful, and unforgettably beautiful slice of Yellowstone. The stunning vistas, the presence of wildlife, and the sheer quiet of the surroundings make every step of the journey worthwhile.

Furthermore, the site’s location provides a unique vantage point for exploring the less-traveled parts of Yellowstone. It’s a great base for challenging hikes up to Bliss Pass or for leisurely fishing trips along the creeks. The area’s geology and ecology are also on full display, offering a living classroom for those interested in the natural history of the region. For the seasoned backpacker or the aspiring adventurer, Bliss Pass Junction stands out as a prime destination. It is a testament to the fact that some of the most rewarding experiences require a little extra effort. So, if you're ready to trade the comfort of your car for the tranquility of the trail, pack your gear and set your sights on Bliss Pass Junction. It’s a place that will leave a lasting impression and beckon you back to the wild heart of Wyoming.

Bliss Pass Junction

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA