Trout Lake, Yellowstone National Park — High-altitude alpine lake

Trout Lake reflects rugged peaks and pine forest at Trout Lake in Yellowstone National Park.

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.

Access & viewing

GPS Coordinates: 44°53′57″N 110°7′21″W
Accessibility: Steep, natural surface; not wheelchair-friendly

Conditions & safety

Permits Required: 0

Planning advice

Nearby Attractions: Soda Butte Creek valley overlook; Absaroka Mountains; Lamar Valley wildlife area
Nearby Facilities: Pebble Creek Campground; vault toilets; no potable water
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.
Tips Advice: 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.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to reduce parking stress
Bear spray is essential; know how to use it
No water at the trail; bring sufficient supply
Pace the steep ascent; a slow, deliberate climb pays off
The muddy lakebed is treacherous beyond the shore

More details

Park Area: Lamar Valley, Yellowstone National Park
Family Friendly Notes: Steep ascent; bears present; keep children within sight; no facilities at lake
Attraction Type: Glacial Lake
Elevation Feet: 6782
Distance From Entrance: 1.5 miles south of Pebble Creek Campground (Northeast Entrance Road)
Accessibility Level: Hike required; steep natural surface; not wheelchair accessible
How To Get There: From the Northeast Entrance Road, drive to Pebble Creek Campground area. The Trout Lake Trailhead sits 1.5 miles south of the campground; follow the 1.2-mile Trout Lake Loop with a short side path to a hill overlooking Soda Butte Creek valley.
Parking Availability: 9-10 cars capacity; can fill up during peak season
Road Type: Paved road to trailhead; small pullout parking
Seasonal Access: Late spring–early fall; winter conditions can make the trail challenging
Entry Fees: Varies
Main Features: Alpine lake, glacial basin at the base of the Absaroka Mountains; 12 acres of surface area; maximum length/width ~250 yards
What Youll See: Shoreline margins, open water against a backdrop of the Absaroka range, and views toward Soda Butte Creek valley from a looping shoreline trail
Unique Characteristics: High-alpine setting with a glacially carved basin; native trout ecology including Yellowstone Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout; otters seen during spawning season
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
Best Viewpoints: Lakeside viewpoints around the shore; short hillside overlook above Soda Butte Creek valley
Photo Opportunities: Morning reflections on calm water, golden-hour light along the eastern shore, wide-angle views toward the Absaroka crest
Photography Spots: Shoreline corners, reflections at dawn, hillside overlook toward Soda Butte Creek valley
Sunrise Sunset Quality: Morning light optimal for reflections; alpenglow possible on clear evenings
Visitor Center Present: 0
Restrooms Available: 0
Restroom Type: Vault toilets may be available at Pebble Creek campground
Picnic Areas: 0
Interpretive Signs: 0
Cell Service: Unreliable or non-existent
Water Available: 0
Guided Tours Available: 0
Trailheads Here: Trout Lake Trailhead; 1.5 miles south of Pebble Creek Campground
Connecting Trails: Trout Lake Trail (1.2-mile loop); short side trail to hillside overlook
Nearby Services: Pebble Creek Campground; vault toilets may be available; no potable water at the trail
Common Wildlife: Grizzly and black bears; bison; elk; coyotes; foxes; pronghorn; muskrats; North American river otters; various birds
Best Wildlife Times: June–July for otters and spawning trout; bears and other wildlife can appear year-round; early morning often best
Geological Formation Type: Glacial Lake
Scientific Interest: Glacial landforms in a volcanic-tectonic setting; ecology of native trout and river otters; Absaroka volcanism context
Winter Access: Winter access is challenging; snow/ice present; traction and warm gear required
Best Visit Times: Mid-June to early July for trout activity; mornings for reflections; avoid mid-day glare
Best Season: Late spring through early fall
Weather Patterns: Mountain meteorology with potential afternoon thunderstorms; cool mornings; wind shifts from valley to ridge
Peak Fill Times: Summer weekends; parking tends to fill by late morning
Busiest Season: Summer weekends
Lake Size: 12 acres (0.049 km²)
Fishing Species: Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout
Fishing Nearby: 0
Swimming Allowed: 0
Boating Allowed: 0
Climbing Areas: 0
Review Summary: Trout Lake earns high marks (4.9/5 from 29 reviews). Hikers describe a short, steep route with a rewarding alpine setting and good wildlife viewing, tempered by bears and variable weather. The lake serves as a practical window into glacial history and the dynamic Yellowstone landscape.

Location

Photos

Hikers walk along a grassy Trout Lake trail in Yellowstone National Park on a sunny summer day.

Trout Lake in Yellowstone National Park is framed by evergreen trees with rugged mountains in the distance.

Vibrant wildflowers blanket a grassy meadow framing Trout Lake in Yellowstone National Park on a sunny summer day.

Trout Lake in Yellowstone National Park covered in snow with a forested shore and snow-capped mountains.

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Yes. Parking is limited (9-10 spaces) and peaks on warm summer weekends; plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

Is the 1.2-mile hike worth it for a lake?

Yes. The short loop delivers high-alpine scenery, shoreline views, and wildlife opportunities, but the ascent is steep and the surface can be uneven.

Is it safe for a first-time hiker with kids?

The route is steep and exposed in places; bears are present year-round. Keep kids within arm’s reach, carry bear spray, and stay on the trail.

Can I bring my dog to Trout Lake?

Dogs are not discussed in this guide; plan for a leash-free policy with local regulations and trail restrictions; check current Yellowstone rules before visiting.

Will the water be too cold to swim or wade?

Yes. Water temperatures stay cold year-round; swimming is not recommended and the lakebed can be muddy and treacherous.

Is there cell service at Trout Lake?

Cell service is unreliable or non-existent in this area; plan accordingly and download maps offline.