Whisky Bay Trail

Whisky Bay Trail is a scenic, 4.3-mile off-road route along the northern shore of Hebgen Lake's Madison Arm, offering excellent day-use waterfront access and secluded lake views for high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles and SxSs. This slow-going trail features a mix of dirt and packed sand, but drivers should expect to navigate numerous deep ruts, large potholes, and wide mud holes that require careful tire placement. Multiple loops and narrow finger trails branch off the main route, leading down to the shoreline or up to scenic ridge viewpoints overlooking the bay. This trail connects US Highway 191 on the east to the Horse Butte area on the west, making it a great option for a relaxing day trip near West Yellowstone. Due to tight, twisty sections with low-hanging trees, towing trailers along this route is not recommended. Offroaders should also be aware of seasonal conditions, as snowmobile access is permitted during the winter months, while summer visitors should watch for posted warnings regarding toxic algae blooms in Hebgen Lake. Cell service is generally limited to around two bars of LTE coverage, so downloading offline maps before heading out is highly recommended. Dispersed day-use spots are abundant, providing plenty of opportunities to stop, enjoy the water, and take in the surrounding forest scenery.