Bechler River

The Reardon Guys group photo, 1968 - Three Rivers Junction

TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

• This is a fairly difficult hike, and should not be attempted unless you are in good physical condition.  The first third of the hike involves fairly serious climbs as you cross the Continental Divide three times.  The trail starts at 7500 feet, peaks at around 8,600 feet, and finishes near 6,000 feet at Cave Falls.
• Backcountry Adventures (208-652-3385 or 208-680-3358) is an excellent source for either getting a shuttle ride back to Old Faithful or having your car delivered to Cave Falls or the Bechler Ranger Station.
• Most of the locals agree that terminating at Cave Falls rather than Bechler Ranger Station is preferred because of the favorable scenery.  The final 4 miles of the trail follow the mainly quiet waters of the Bechler River.  The Ranger Station route is 1.4 miles shorter.
• Campsites are designated and must be reserved through the Backcountry Office from the National Park Service (307-344-7381).  I would recommend submitting an application (available online) near the April 1 early entry date.
• Water is plentiful throughout the trail, and is available even when crossing the high points of the Continental Divide.  There are springs everywhere, and tributaries are frequent as you travel further into the canyon.
• Carry an adequate topographic map, particularly if you plan to divert from the main trail.  There are a multitude of waterfalls on this hike, some of which are not shown or are mislabeled on the 15-minute maps.  I consulted the book "Yellowstone Waterfalls and Their Discovery" (Rubinstein, Stevens, and Whittlesey) and highlighted each waterfall on my topographical map.  With extra time, I would have bushwacked 1/2 offtrail and investigated Albright Falls (aka Batchender Column) a little further.
• The Lower Ford (the 2nd of 3 fords) was quite difficult, but not hazardous.  If hiking from north to south, locate a small tree and a large trail marker on the west bank of the river and start there.  Move slightly downstream as you cross.  The first 20-30 feet are the most difficult.  Use a large walking stick, and take your time.  Also, water socks or other lightweight traction shoes are very helpful for the river crossings.  As an additional precaution, I would suggest stringing a rope across the rive for additional support.  This crossing could be treacherous any time earlier than July 15.
• Don't miss "Mr. Bubble", a thermal spring a mile off trail on the Ferris Fork.  It is a pleasant way to soak tired limbs in the middle of the trip.  It is located about a hundred yards upstream from a prominent hot spring on the opposite side of the river.  According to Park Service regulations, it is legal to bath in Mr. Bubble because of the inclusion of cold water runoff.  Caution should be taken when moving around the spring, as some areas are uncomfortably hot.
• If you desire to explore the waterfalls above Mr. Bubble (Tendoy, Sluiceway, Wahhi, and Gwenna), cross the Ferris Fork near Mr. Bubble and follow the ridge upstream to a southern fork just below Tendoy Falls.  "Yellowstone Waterfalls" has pretty good instructions on how to traverse in this area.
• Because this is grizzly country, I would recommend taking bear bells and carrying a can of pepper spray specifically designed for bears.  Take all necessary safety precautions when handling food in camp; sleep at least a 100 yards from your cooking area.
• Watch your footing.  There are several places which are rocky and difficult to traverse.  Be sure to use footwear suitable for difficult terrain.
• The waterfalls are beautiful and numerous, so use common sense when approaching the many steep canyon cliffs in the area.   Keep in mind that falling is probably a greater hazard on this trip than bears.
• The Continental Divide campsite was adequate but unspectacular; no wood fires are allowed.  The Lower Ford campsite is a gem, with the Bechler River wrapping almost 180 degrees around the camp.  Fires are allowed, there are several good tenting sites on both sides of the trail, and there is a crude toilet constructed nearby.  The campsite is located about 1/4 mile south of the Lower Ford river crossing.

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