Ross Lake Trail

Route Description for Ross Lake Trail

Those seeking a challenging adventure in the Wind River Mountain Range will likely enjoy the Ross Lake Trail. This high-demand, high-reward excursion boasts breathtaking alpine scenery along the way to motivate even the most discouraged hikers. As this route requires the navigation of rocky, steep terrain, we encourage hikers to wear a sturdy pair of footwear and to consider using trekking poles. Note bighorn sheep often frequent the area. If you encounter any sort of wildlife, maintain a safe distance and admire them from afar. While unlikely bear encounters are possible, so we suggest someone brings a can of bear spray.

Embark on your adventure along the Ross Lake Trail from the Whiskey Mountain Trailhead. Setting out from here, you will follow the Whiskey Mountain Trail through a meadow and up a steep ridge. Soon after your departure, you will reach an intersection, keep right and begin your climb up several switchbacks, take your time navigating the vertiginous terrain and keep an eye out for wildlife. After some hiking, you will reach another junction, keep left here, and the terrain will begin to plateau. This route will guide you through a montane meadow and to another intersection where you will again keep left.

As you travel further into the wilderness, views of the granite oasis and Ross Lake will unfold. Revel in the beauty of the alpine terrain from the shoreline of the crystalline pool. When you are done marveling at the spellbinding scenery, head back along the trail the way you came.