A quick mile loop, Trout Lake is a wonderful spot to walk the perimeter of a beautiful mountain lake teeming with wildlife in the mountains of Yellowstone.
The Trout Lake trail is just over 1 mile and is considered easy to moderate. There is a steep incline right off the bat, and some of the footing around the lake trail can be uneven. Otherwise it’s a very quick and easy hike. This took us only 30 minutes, with a few stops around the lake the take pictures of the reflections in the water. Being in a national park, dogs can not use this trail.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to Trout Lake, search for the Trout Lake Trailhead in Yellowstone National Park, WY or click here.
Directions (old school maps): Take Highway 89 until you intersect with Grand Loop Road near Mammoth Hot Springs. Take it East towards the interior of the park. Near Roosevelt Lodge you’ll break left onto Highway 212. Take it for 17.7 miles and the turn off will be to your left.
Driving Info: This is all paved so it’s accessible to anybody, although like anywhere in Yellowstone road accessibility can vary depending on weather or animal activity.
Time & Weather: We did this hike towards the end of May, when the weather was cool and sunny. But any hike in Yellowstone requires paying attention to the weather, as it changes quickly and can be extreme.
Gear: Always bring bear spray (and make sure you feel confident using it) while hiking in grizzly bear country. Due to the rain and rougher terrain, the trail is rarely smooth, so boots are still recommended. Bring your binoculars or telephoto camera lens to capture the abundant wildlife. Bring layers as always for hikes in Montana.
Trail Navigation: The trail is easy to follow. Once you reach the lake it’s a simple loop around the shore perimeter.
Water & Food: Pack water as always, but this is such a quick hike there’s no need for snacks unless you want to sit and relax near the lake.
Trailhead Info: The parking lot is small so this trail will never be too crowded. But like most places in Yellowstone, it will fill up during the busy season.
Pictures of Trout Lake Trail:
Once you park, you ascend rather sharply up and into the mountains (this view is looking back down towards the parking lot). It’ll be worth it to escape the noise of the road and to feel the quiet solitude of the lake. Remember to pay attention to your surroundings and carry bear spray. There is all type of wildlife in this section of the park, including grizzly bears and wolves.
Once you get to the lake you can choose to break right or left for the loop. We stopped to admire the spectacular reflection of the snow-capped mountains on the water. In the distant meadow, an elk popped out to say hello as we crossed the other side.
A view of the trail that hugs the perimeter of the lake. A few sections will have an uneven and slanted walking trail so just be sure to watch your footing. Take some time to admire the birds and other wildlife that live around the lake. You can also fish with appropriate permits.
Remember to stay aware as you walk back to the trailhead.
Want more amazing Yellowstone hikes? There's 1000 things to experience. One of our favorites is hiking Mount Washburn where you get the best views of Yellowstone! From the top you can see the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, and all the surrounding mountain ranges.
