Blue Lake Trail

The Blue Lake Hike is one of our favorite adventures in the Wind River Range. Following a busy trail for the first few miles, this epic excursion heads off-trail up to an isolated lake nestled amongst the granite crests. Note the trailhead and the Big Sandy Trail are extremely busy, so expect to share the trail and compete for a parking spot. As this hike eventually goes off-trail, we encourage the use of the trail GPS to easily located the lake. Additionally, as with all sorts of exploration in the area, make sure at least one person carries bear spray.

Embark on your alpine adventure from the Big Sandy Trailhead. From here, you will follow the Fremont Trail along the Big Sandy River. Soon after your departure, you will reach an intersection and veer right here onto the Big Sandy Trail. This popular route will wind between shaded tree stands and exposed meadowlands. As you progress further into the wilderness, dumbfounding views of the crags will unfold before you. After some hiking, you will ultimately reach the southern shoreline of Big Sandy Lake. Here, veer left and begin your climb off-route.

Using the trail GPS, you will be guided northwestwardly up the mountainside to Blue Lake. Take in the mesmerizing panoramas of the granite mountain range from here. Enjoy the charm of the small alpine pool, then head back the way you came back to the trailhead.