Take A Short And Scenic Hike To Trout Lake In Wyoming

With its stunning landscapes, Yellowstone National Park is one of Wyoming’s top hiking destinations but not everyone is up for a lengthy, strenuous trek. If you’re looking for a trail that is short and sweet, you’ll want to check out the Trout Lake Trail in the park’s northern stretches.

Trout Lake is a modest little backcountry spot hidden away in the northeastern section of Yellowstone National Park.

Thomas Smith/AllTrails Sitting about 10 miles south of the northeastern entrance and about 1.5 miles south of the Pebble Creek Campground, the lake is away from the hubbub of the more popular destinations of the park.

The trail around Trout Lake measures about 1.2 miles overall, starting from the modest trailhead and looping around the little lake.

Andy Ng/Google Aside from a steep incline at the beginning of the trail, the majority of the trek is a level, easy walk. The trail is also well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Although this trail seems more like a stroll than a hike, the major draw here is the stunning views.

Christian Platt/AllTrails Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to incredible mountain views surrounding the glassy lake. And, if you time it right, you may get to see a collection of colorful wildflowers.

Just like in any other spot in Yellowstone, you’ll find an assortment of animals living their best lives near Trout Lake.

Allen Arrington/AllTrails Among the animals regularly spotted here: trout (hence, the lake’s name), river otters, geese, and even a bison or two roaming about. Just remember to keep your distance!

Overall, this trail is a fantastic little journey for everyone in the family and is a small peek into the wonders you’ll find at the park.

Rob Casey/AllTrails When visiting, remember to follow basic hiking etiquette and leave no trace.

Trout Lake is located within Yellowstone National Park, approximately 10 miles south of the park’s northeast entrance.

Google Maps

A small parking area is located at the trailhead. For additional details, visit the park’s website or AllTrails.

Thomas Smith/AllTrails

Sitting about 10 miles south of the northeastern entrance and about 1.5 miles south of the Pebble Creek Campground, the lake is away from the hubbub of the more popular destinations of the park.

Andy Ng/Google

Aside from a steep incline at the beginning of the trail, the majority of the trek is a level, easy walk. The trail is also well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Christian Platt/AllTrails

Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to incredible mountain views surrounding the glassy lake. And, if you time it right, you may get to see a collection of colorful wildflowers.

Allen Arrington/AllTrails

Among the animals regularly spotted here: trout (hence, the lake’s name), river otters, geese, and even a bison or two roaming about. Just remember to keep your distance!

Rob Casey/AllTrails

When visiting, remember to follow basic hiking etiquette and leave no trace.

Google Maps

Website: nps.gov Trail information: alltrails.com Phone: 307-344-7381

On the lookout for another lake to hike in the Cowboy State? Check out the beautiful Crater Lake, located about 54 miles northwest of Laramie. Read more in Hike To An Emerald Lagoon On The Easy Crater Lake Trail In Wyoming.

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Address: Trout Lake Trailhead, US-212, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA