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Horseshoe Basin
Parking for this trailhead can be found at the end of the Bison Paddock access road. Enter the access gate and make your way around the natural spring. You will then see the trail sign indicating the respective routes. At this point you need to decide which way you wish to complete this loop trail. If you decide to take the left trail into the Horseshoe Basin it will allow you to gain the majority of your elevation at the beginning. As you switchback into the basin you will be rewarded with sweeping views across the landscape bordering the National Park. A good place to take a lunch stop is at the Lakeview ridge saddle, which offers commanding views down both respective basins. From here you will descend into the Oil Basin where you will notice the trail following the park boundary for the rest of the hike. During this section of the hike you will have limited views walking through thick Aspen forests, as you make your journey back to the Bison Paddock.
Distance: 21.3 km / 13 mi (return)
Elevation Gain: 350 m / 1148 ft.
Rating: Difficult
Hiking Time: 7 hours
NOTE: This trail offers a Guided Hiking Experience with an option to hire a local Interpretative Hiking Guide. Please visit Tamarack Adventures for more information.
