10 Most Gorgeous Lakes In Yellowstone, USA

lakes in yellowstone
Isabelle
Isabelle  
Published
| 4 min read

Yellowstone National Park spreads across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It is the oldest public park in the northwestern part of the United States and has been patronized by more than four million visitors. A large number of people visit Yellowstone Lake to try their hand at fishing and boating. A great variety of animals such as grizzly bears, bison, elk, and bald eagles live in this area, making this place a paradise for shutterbugs. There are more than 600 lakes in Yellowstone and is definitely a challenge to conquer them all. To ensure you have an unforgettable experience here, we have shortlisted several must-visit lakes for an eventful vacation. Read on to find out about the most gorgeous lakes in Yellowstone, USA.

1. Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Acroterion used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Yellowstone National Park’s largest lake, this has been highly recommended by tourists and locals. With impressive views from all angles, the best way to get a panoramic view of the lake is by kayaking. Visitors who are not fond of kayaking can opt for a guided tour that is inclusive of a picnic. You may watch out for the geyser when you are touring Yellowstone Lake. While you are there, make time to visit Fishing Bridge - Amphitheater, which is one of the museums near the lake.

Yellowstone Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

2. Shoshone Lake

Shoshone Lake
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Greg Willis used under CC BY-SA 2.0

A destination well-liked by backpackers, Shoshone Lake has a number of trails that can offer to all hikers. Those looking for a challenge can try the lake’s full loop which will take you two to three days to complete. This backcountry lake contains a variety of trout which are easy to catch. The fact that it is secluded also means this is a great place to get a well-deserved break while you are canoeing. Come between the months of May and November if you are planning to fish. Meanwhile, only hand-powered boats like kayaks and canoes are allowed on the lake.

Shoshone Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

3. Heart Lake

Heart Lake Conservation Area
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mykola Swarnyk used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Dubbed as the lake that’s got it all, Heart Lake is located within Yellowstone National Park. Those intending to hike at Heart Lake while admiring the spectacular views can choose from a number of trails nearby such as Mount Washburn and Storm Point Trail. Also, watch out for the majestic geyser basins that can be found on various hiking trails. Please note that the geysers can be scalding hot, so do keep a distance from them. Visitors new to Heart Lake can book a guided tour where a guide will walk alongside you to facilitate your journey. This place is great for fishing and camping as well.

Heart Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

4. Lewis Lake

Cliffside of Lewis Lake
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dcrjsr used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Learn to fish from the best spots at Lewis Lake. One of the few rivers that permit motorized boating, fishing enthusiasts will find Lewis River a sight to behold because of the exotic fishes available there. If you are unfamiliar with Lewis Lake, book a guided fishing tour and learn several helpful fishing techniques from experts. Easily accessible, visitors come here to camp for the night after hiking in the day. A well-maintained camping ground, campers typically don’t have an issue finding a camping spot but do prepare a bear spray if you are coming.

Lewis Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

5. Grebe Lake

Great crested grebe on the lake
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Grahame used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Set within Yellowstone National Park, Grebe Lake is one of the most popular hiking destinations among visiting families. Trails here are wide and well-paved, making it safe and comfortable for novice hikers. Well-maintained and shady, hikers often bring along their fishing equipment to try their hand at fishing. Do keep a lookout for trumpeter swans and bald eagles while you bask in the glory of nature. Also, a camping ground, please take note of different entrances when entering the park.

Grebe Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

6. Isa Lake

Isa Lake
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user James St. John used under CC BY 2.0

Come to Isa Lake before it is drained completely! Set halfway within geyser basins of Old Faithful and West Thumb, Isa Lake has a strong historical background that can be traced back to the early 1900s. Fans of science and geography should come by for a lesson about the continental divide which is plastered on informational signages. As it is a small lake, there’s not much to do here but if you are looking for a break to reset your mind and body, Isa Lake will give you all the space and peace you need.

Isa Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Teton County, Wyoming, US

Visited this place?

7. Delusion Lake

Lake and greenery
Source: Photo by Flickr user NH53 used under CC BY 2.0

Found within Yellowstone National Park, Delusion Lake is not widely frequented by locals, making it a quiet hiking and fishing spot for tourists who want solitude. Hike around the lake and capture photos of the scenic Flat Mountain Bay. Some of the hiking trails along Delusion Lake are not as well-kept, so be sure to arm yourself with a set of reliable hiking equipment before you embark on this journey. Also, this is a spot you may want to consider going to if landscape photography is something you enjoy.

Delusion Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

8. Wrangler Lake

Lake with deep blue waters
Source: Photo by Flickr user Sarah Deer used under CC BY 2.0

Wrangler Lake is a calming place for you to practice your hiking skills. Easy to navigate and hike, there are trail markers to inform you in advance about any upcoming difficulties along the way. Watch out for interesting wildlife like deer, bison, and elks during your journey. Wolves and bears have been spotted by other hikers, so be sure to bring a bear spray. Another note of caution is the sheer amount of mosquitoes at Wrangler Lake, so remember to pack your mosquito repellents as well.

Wrangler Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

9. Riddle Lake

Riddle Lake
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dirtsc used under CC BY-SA 3.0

At first glance, Riddle Lake might not look magnificent or impressive, but don’t be deceived by its appearance. As you hike down this relaxing and flat trail, you will be rewarded with exceptional views of the lake that is covered with lily pads. Unique flowers are abundant around Riddle Lake, so keep a lookout for them. A spot favored by swans, Riddle Lake will be a treat to your eyes.

Riddle Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

10. Trout Lake

Lakeside view
Source: Photo by Flickr user PebblePicJay used under CC BY 2.0

Suitable for hikers of all ages, the trails at Trout Lake are easily accessible by locals and tourists. Come during off-peak hours if you wish to enjoy the hiking trail by yourself. As you hike, you will encounter otters and trout swimming along the shallow lake. A wonderful fishing spot, it’s also easy to score a place on the ranking board if you decide to fish at Trout Lake. Fishes can measure more than 30 inches (0.8 meters) long. Do note that there are no-fishing zones in some parts of the lake. Parking spots around Trout Lake are also limited, so come prepared, and come early.

Trout Lake

Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190, USA

Visited this place?

Reconnect with nature at Yellowstone

Experts say that going on a vacation filled with natural sights can heighten our senses and clear our minds, making us sharper and more detail-oriented. Wait no more and start reaping the benefits of connecting with nature today. Review this comprehensive list of the most gorgeous lakes at Yellowstone and start exploring it.

Visited this place?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Isabelle is an educator and a self-professed foodie. When she is not teaching away in school, she is either out looking for interesting foods, at the gym or reading at home.

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Explore Yellowstone National Park
Looking for accommodation?
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.