Lakes in Yellowstone National Park

Lakes in Yellowstone National Park are some of the most remarkable features of this vast wilderness, each with its own unique story, ecology, and scenic value. These bodies of water not only add to the park’s beauty but also provide habitats for a wide range of wildlife and opportunities for scientific study and recreation. From massive lakes shaped by volcanic activity to small, secluded alpine waters tucked into quiet meadows and forests, Yellowstone’s lakes highlight the diverse natural heritage of the park.

Lake Name	Key Features
Yellowstone Lake	Largest high-elevation lake in North America, hydrothermal activity, habitat for cutthroat trout.
Lewis Lake	Third largest lake in the park, connected to Shoshone Lake, popular for boating and fishing.
Shoshone Lake	Largest backcountry lake, home to Shoshone Geyser Basin, roadless wilderness experience.
Heart Lake	Heart-shaped lake near Mount Sheridan, habitat for cutthroat trout, frequented by grizzly bears.
Wrangler Lake	Small, serene backcountry lake, quiet hiking destination.
Grebe Lake	Known for Arctic grayling, surrounded by pine forests and meadows.
Delusion Lake	Remote, little-known backcountry lake, rarely visited.
Isa Lake	Unique for draining into two oceans, located at Craig Pass on the Continental Divide.
Trout Lake	Small alpine lake, abundant with cutthroat and rainbow trout, accessible by a short hike.
Mallard Lake	Near Old Faithful, accessible by trail, quiet retreat from busy geyser basins.

Yellowstone Lake is the crown jewel among the park’s lakes and one of the most famous in the United States. Covering approximately 136 square miles with nearly 110 miles of shoreline, it is the largest high-elevation lake in North America at over 7,700 feet above sea level. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by lodgepole pine forests, open meadows, and distant snowcapped mountains, creating one of the most iconic landscapes in Yellowstone. The lake lies atop a vast volcanic caldera and is dotted with hydrothermal features along its floor and shoreline, making it geologically significant. Yellowstone Lake is also critical for wildlife, serving as a breeding ground for cutthroat trout and attracting grizzly bears, bald eagles, and ospreys to its shores.

Lewis Lake is located south of Yellowstone Lake and is the third largest lake in the park. Fed by the Lewis River, it lies near the southern entrance and is known for its recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Surrounded by forest and accessible by road, Lewis Lake offers a more tranquil experience compared to the grandeur of Yellowstone Lake. It also connects to Shoshone Lake via the Lewis River channel, making it part of a larger hydrological system that is both beautiful and ecologically important.

Shoshone Lake is one of the largest backcountry lakes in the United States that remains roadless and undeveloped. Covering about 8,050 acres, it offers a true wilderness experience and is often reached by hiking, paddling, or horseback riding. Shoshone Lake is also home to the Shoshone Geyser Basin, one of the most remote geothermal areas in the park. The pristine waters and isolation of this lake make it a haven for backcountry explorers and a reminder of Yellowstone’s unspoiled landscapes.

Heart Lake sits beneath the slopes of Mount Sheridan in the southern part of the park. Its heart-shaped outline gives it both its name and a romantic appeal. Accessible by backcountry trails, it is a favorite destination for hikers seeking solitude and stunning scenery. The lake is also an important habitat for Yellowstone cutthroat trout and is often frequented by grizzly bears, making it a wild and thrilling part of the park to visit.

Wrangler Lake is a small, serene backcountry lake that lies in a quiet area of Yellowstone. It requires a hike to reach and is not as well-known as some of the park’s larger bodies of water. However, its still waters and peaceful setting make it a rewarding destination for those looking to escape the crowds and experience Yellowstone’s quieter side.

Grebe Lake, located in the central part of the park, is famous for its historical population of Arctic grayling, a fish species with a distinctive sail-like dorsal fin. Though restoration efforts have taken place in the region to reintroduce native fish, Grebe Lake remains an important part of Yellowstone’s conservation story. The lake is surrounded by lodgepole pine forests and open meadows, offering both scenic beauty and opportunities for wildlife watching.

Delusion Lake is a lesser-known lake in Yellowstone, tucked away in the backcountry. Its remote location and limited visibility on park maps make it a hidden gem for adventurers. The name itself adds a touch of mystery, and while it is rarely visited compared to Yellowstone’s major lakes, its existence reflects the vast diversity of landscapes and waterscapes that make up the park.

Isa Lake, located at Craig Pass along the Continental Divide, is one of the most unusual lakes in the world. It is famous for draining into two different oceans: water from one side of the lake flows to the Pacific Ocean through the Lewis River, while the other side flows toward the Gulf of Mexico through the Firehole River. Its small size belies its unique hydrological importance, and it is often admired by travelers passing along the scenic road between Old Faithful and West Thumb.

Trout Lake is a small alpine lake nestled in the northeastern section of the park, near the Lamar Valley. Surrounded by steep slopes and dense forests, Trout Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish population, particularly cutthroat and rainbow trout. It is accessible by a short but steep hike, making it a favorite spot for anglers and photographers seeking dramatic yet accessible scenery.

Mallard Lake lies near the Old Faithful area and can be reached by hiking the Mallard Lake Trail. The lake offers a quiet retreat from the busy geyser basins nearby, with tranquil waters and forested surroundings that provide a perfect backdrop for wildlife encounters and peaceful reflection. Its proximity to some of Yellowstone’s most popular attractions makes it an accessible escape into nature.

Beyond these ten lakes, Yellowstone is home to countless smaller lakes, ponds, and tarns scattered throughout its diverse landscapes. Each plays a role in shaping the ecosystems of the park, supporting fish, birds, and mammals, while also enriching the visitor experience with their beauty and serenity. Collectively, these lakes highlight the incredible diversity of Yellowstone National Park, reminding us that beyond its geysers and canyons, the park’s waters are just as vital in defining its wilderness character.