Yellowstone Lake

Introduction to Yellowstone Lake

Sitting in the heart of Yellowstone's West Thumb area is Yellowstone Lake, the park's largest body of water and the largest high-elevation lake above 7,000 feet in North America. The lake is 20 miles long, 14 miles wide, and features 141 miles of shoreline. With water temperatures averaging 41 degrees Fahrenheit, swimming is discouraged, with survival times in the water between 20 and 30 minutes. Visitors can admire the scenery via hiking trails, on a boat or with a fishing pole in hand. But remember: The lake freezes over by early December and can stay that way until early June.

Hiking Trails Around Yellowstone Lake

There are several hikes you can take to admire the splendor of Yellowstone Lake. Easier trails include the 0.8-mile Pelican Creek Nature Trail loop and the 2.5-mile Storm Point Trail loop – both have an elevation gain of less than 100 feet.

Advanced Hiking Trails

For hikers on the hunt for more of a challenge, consider the 3.6-mile Elephant Back Mountain Trail loop, which features a nearly 800-foot elevation gain, or the more strenuous 4.5-mile Avalanche Peak Trail, which offers a nearly 2,100-foot elevation gain. From both summits, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the lake.

Recreational Activities on Yellowstone Lake

Summertime boat rentals and scenic cruises are available on Yellowstone Lake. Both are provided through Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

Fishing Opportunities

A large slice of the park's yearly visitors are anglers. That's because Yellowstone Lake is home to North America's largest population of wild cutthroat trout. To fish in Yellowstone, anglers must obtain an online permit, only fish in designated areas, and agree to the park's lengthy guidelines. If you'd prefer someone else handle the details and logistics, consider a guided fishing charter with Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

Visitor Reviews

Recent visitors said Yellowstone Lake is beautiful and several were astounded by the size and the vibrant clear waters. Many said they drove around the lake and stopped at attractions and lookout points along the way, including West Thumb Geyser Basin (the largest geyser basin on the shores of the lake). Early summer visitors saw remnants of ice and several mentioned this area was not as crowded as other top attractions in the park.

Accessibility and Facilities

Yellowstone Lake is easily accessible from both the park's south and west entrances and facilities are located at West Thumb/Grant Village and Fishing Bridge/Lake Village.

Grant Village Area

At the Grant Village area, there is a visitor center with restrooms, gift shops, park exhibits and ranger talks are available, along with lodging, camping, dining, a general store, a marina, and a gas station.

Fishing Bridge and Lake Village Area

At the Fishing Bridge and Lake Village area, travelers will find the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel, dining, cabins, the only RV campground in the park, gas, and another visitor center. Facility hours vary, but the lake is free to visit 24 hours a day when roads to the region are open for the season (generally May to October). This area is covered by Yellowstone's seven-day entrance fee ($35 per vehicle).

Additional Resources

Consult the National Park Service's West Thumb and Grant Village Area page for more information.