Lake Ethel Trail

Yielding a diversity of flora and fauna in addition to a variety of scenery, the Lake Ethel Trail provides a stimulating experience. Explore the grasslands abundant with wildlife, enjoy the sounds of a gurgling creek and revel in the beauty of the distant Wind River Mountains. While this route is manageable, there are a few segments of steep terrain. Make sure you pack plenty of water or a filter to stay hydrated as you trek, and make sure at least one person carries a can of bear spray—just in case! While not necessary, the trail GPS can be useful when navigating overgrown sections of the path.

Your journey along the Lake Ethel Trail begins from the Boulder Canyon Trailhead when you are all set. From here, the Boulder Canyon Trail will lead you east, along the lazy moving stream. Enjoy the tranquil sounds of the babbling brook as you wind between exposed meadows and the shaded tree canopy. Soon the path will cross over to the northern side of the stream. Keep an eye out for wildlife and admire the bounding granite walls of the canyon as you progress.

After some hiking, the path will reroute north, demanding the ascent of a few switchbacks into the granite oasis. Here you will meet an intersection, keep left, and you will be diverted onto the Lake Ethel Trail. Follow this path up to the shoreline of the glittering pool and appreciate the beauty of the scenery. After enjoying the lake, head back along the path the way you came.