Natural AttractionFort Yellowstone Overlook
Travertine terraces from Mammoth Hot Springs; calcium carbonate deposition in action.
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Trout Lake
Last Updated: January 2026
Type
Glacial Lake
Accessibility
Hike required; steep natural surface; not wheelchair accessible
Best Season
Late spring through early fall
Busiest Season
Summer weekends
Features
Alpine lake, glacial basin at the base of the Absaroka Mountains; 12 acres of surface area; maximum length/width ~250 yards
Elevation
6,782 ft
Overview
About This Attraction
The loop trail circles Trout Lake, tracing the shore with open views toward Soda Butte Creek valley. The lake sits in a high alpine basin at the base of the Absaroka Mountains. Glacial ice carved the basin during the Pleistocene, later filled by meltwater and precipitation. This landscape records glacial history within a volcanic frame—glacial processes carved the basin, and volcanic uplift continues to shape the surrounding terrain.
Quick Facts
Type
Glacial Lake
Elevation
6,782 ft
Access
Hike required; steep natural surface; not wheelchair accessible
Main Features
Alpine lake, glacial basin at the base of the Absaroka Mountains; 12 acres of surface area; maximum length/width ~250 yards
What You'll See
Shoreline margins, open water against a backdrop of the Absaroka range, and views toward Soda Butte Creek valley from a looping shoreline trail
What Makes It Special
High-alpine setting with a glacially carved basin; native trout ecology including Yellowstone Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout; otters seen during spawning season
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall. Mornings bring softer light and calmer water. From mid-June to early July, trout spawn, and the lake sees higher activity and more visitors to the nearby trails. The fishing season opens Memorial Day weekend.
Safety Considerations
Bear spray required; maintain 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other wildlife; steep ascent and muddy lakebed demand caution; no natural safety barriers around the lake; water is perpetually cold
Visitor Tips
- Start early to secure parking; the small trailhead fills during peak season.
- Bear spray is essential; maintain distance from bears and wolves.
- Winter traction devices and warm clothing are advised for the ascent.
- Carry sufficient water; no potable water at the trailhead or lake.
- Stay on the shore if venturing near the lakebed, which can be muddy and treacherous.
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ℹ️ Data Sources
freeroaminghiker.com alibaba.com ecoangler.com montanaangler.com wikipedia.org diyflyfishing.com annestravels.net outdoor-society.com nps.gov islands.com utahsadventurefamily.com 10adventures.com youtube.com wanderlog.com visitmt.com harvestingnature.com outdoorbeginner.com Google Reviews YourNPGuide Editorial
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