Shoshone Lake, Yellowstone: Largest backcountry lake with no road access in the contiguous United States

Q: Is it worth the 6- to 11-mile hike to reach the lake?

Yes. It is the largest backcountry lake in the contiguous U.S. without road access, offering solitude and expansive alpine scenery that rewards the effort.

Q: Can I boat on Shoshone Lake?

Yes, using non-motorized watercraft from Lewis Lake or DeLacy Creek access; wear PFDs and monitor weather changes.

Q: Is there potable water nearby?

No. Bring purified water or have a reliable purification method; there is no potable water at Shoshone Lake.

Q: Should I bring bear spray?

Yes. Grizzly bears frequent the area; bear spray is highly recommended for backcountry travel.

Q: What about mosquitoes in early season?

Mosquitoes and biting flies are common in June and July; plan accordingly with repellent and protective clothing.

+2 more

Overview

About This Attraction

Black obsidian beaches line the north shore as Shoshone Lake spreads across the high-elevation basin. The lake sits at the headwaters of the Lewis River, surrounded by caldera-rim mountains. This is the largest backcountry lake in the contigu ous U.S. without road access, set in the Yellowstone Caldera with a max depth of 205 ft and an area of 8,050 acres.

Best Time to Visit

Early July through mid-September. Expect mosquitoes in early summer; mornings and late afternoons offer gentler light and calmer winds for crossings.

Visitor Tips

Start early to beat mosquitoes and crowds
Bring bear spray and a water purification method
Use a satellite beacon; cell service is unreliable in backcountry
Pack warm layers for cool nights and wind on the lake

Details

Location & Features

GPS: 44.3700, -110.7075

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Lone Star Geyser, West Thumb, Old Faithful, Lewis Lake nearby vistas

Insider Tips

Purify water from natural sources
Be bear-aware and carry spray
Start hikes early to minimize bug exposure
Check weather and wind forecasts before crossings

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Backcountry access via hiking trails; no road access; some routes strenuous

Family Friendly:

Exposed shoreline and backcountry risks; supervise children near water and bears

Nearby Facilities:

Vault toilets; no potable water; parking at trailheads and Lewis Lake access points

FAQs

Do I need a backcountry camping permit to stay at Shoshone Lake?

Yes. Backcountry camping permits are required through Yellowstone's permit system; plan ahead due to limited backcountry sites.

Is it worth the 6- to 11-mile hike to reach the lake?

Can I boat on Shoshone Lake?

Is there potable water nearby?

Should I bring bear spray?

What about mosquitoes in early season?

📖 wikipedia.org 📖 youtube.com 📖 explore-share.com 📖 grizzliesandavalanches.com 📖 wanderlog.com 📖 backpacker.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 visitmt.com 📖 usgs.gov 📖 grokipedia.com 📖 northpalmbeachlife.com 📖 hikingproject.com 📖 cowboystatedaily.com 📖 parkcation.com 📖 mensjournal.com 📖 yellowstoneparknet.com 📖 thedyrt.com 📖 reddit.com 📖 yellowstonenationalpark.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →