Lower Slide Lake
A natural wonder formed by a 1925 landslide, featuring a unique drowned forest and serene waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Lower Slide Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural wonder formed by a 1925 landslide, featuring a unique drowned forest and serene waters.
"Move anything on your schedule to visit this secluded spot. Truly worth the little ride."
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The access road can be very rough with large holes. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended for a smoother journey.
🌬️ Wind Advisory
Be prepared for windy conditions, especially during certain times. It can impact water activities like paddleboarding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Drowned Forest
Shoreline of Lower Slide Lake
Witness the eerie beauty of tree trunks submerged for nearly a century, remnants of the 1925 landslide.
Natural Lake Formation
Gros Ventre River
Marvel at a lake created by a massive 1925 landslide, a testament to nature's power.
Secluded Paddleboarding
Lower Slide Lake
Enjoy paddleboarding on clear, crisp waters with minimal crowds, a true hidden gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Lower Slide Lake
Best Time to Visit for Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The access road can be very rough with large holes. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended for a smoother journey.
🌬️ Wind Advisory
Be prepared for windy conditions, especially during certain times. It can impact water activities like paddleboarding.
🏕️ Free Camping Spots
Discover free campsites right by the lake for a secluded overnight experience.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Lower Slide Lake is a perfect dog-friendly getaway. Your furry friends can enjoy the water too!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The access road can be very rough with large holes. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended for a smoother journey.
🌬️ Wind Advisory
Be prepared for windy conditions, especially during certain times. It can impact water activities like paddleboarding.
🏕️ Free Camping Spots
Discover free campsites right by the lake for a secluded overnight experience.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Lower Slide Lake is a perfect dog-friendly getaway. Your furry friends can enjoy the water too!
📸 Natural Beauty
Capture the unique landscape, including the drowned trees and the dramatic landslide formation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lower Slide Lake's secluded beauty and unique drowned forest, calling it a hidden gem. While the rough access road and occasional wind are noted drawbacks, the opportunity for peaceful exploration and free camping makes it a highly recommended spot.
"Had a great time at slide lake! Only problem was that it was suuuuper windy. Didn’t love that. Idk if that’s a consistent thing here tho. Not tons of people which was nice!"
Olivia Nelson
"Move anything on your schedule to visit this secluded spot. We went in the fall and found ourselves alone! Truly worth the little ride, even the small twists and turns on the access road."
c hart
"Beautiful place with no people, but the road is very rough with large holes. Campsites available here near water. Beautiful color and different from other areas of the Tetons."
Cheryl Kaufman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lower Slide Lake is located in Bridger-Teton National Forest, near Kelly, Wyoming. The access road can be rough with large holes, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended. Be aware of potential construction on the road.
No, the road is not paved and is described as very rough with large holes. Travelers recommend a 4WD vehicle for easier access.
While possible, it's not ideal. A regular car might struggle with the rough road conditions and large holes. A 4WD vehicle is strongly advised.
Yes, Lower Slide Lake is located outside of Grand Teton National Park, making it a convenient addition to a Teton itinerary. 
The access road is part of the journey into the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Following general directions towards Kelly, Wyoming, and then looking for signs or local guidance for Lower Slide Lake is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lower Slide Lake is generally considered a natural area within the national forest, and there are no specific entrance fees mentioned. Free campsites are available.
As a natural lake and recreational area, Lower Slide Lake does not have set operating hours. It is accessible during daylight hours and for camping.
Free campsites are available by the lake, suggesting no permit is required for basic camping. However, it's always wise to check with the Bridger-Teton National Forest for any specific regulations.
Yes, visitors have reported swimming in Lower Slide Lake, though the water is described as icy.
While specific facilities are not detailed, the presence of campsites suggests basic amenities might be available or that visitors should come prepared for dispersed camping.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include paddleboarding, swimming (though icy!), photography of the unique drowned forest, and enjoying the secluded natural beauty. +1
Lower Slide Lake fishing is mentioned as a keyword, suggesting it's a potential activity for visitors. [^SEO]
The water is described as clear and crisp, though it can be icy, especially for swimming.
It's often described as secluded with few people, especially outside of peak summer. Some visitors found themselves alone on the lake.
The lake was formed on June 23, 1925, when a massive landslide dammed the Gros Ventre River. The trunks of drowned trees are still visible today.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique drowned forest, the dramatic landslide formation, and the serene lake reflections. Fall foliage also offers beautiful colors.
Absolutely. The combination of the natural landslide, the submerged trees, and the surrounding Teton landscape provides stunning photographic subjects.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the Bridger-Teton National Forest or local authorities for current rules regarding drone operation in the area.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating beautiful golden hour effects.
The shoreline offers direct views of the drowned trees. Exploring different points along the access road and lake can reveal unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing life jackets for younger children if they plan to get in the water, even for shallow play. The rough access road means you'll want to pack snacks and drinks, and perhaps plan for a picnic rather than expecting extensive facilities. The free camping is a great option for families looking for an adventurous overnight stay, but ensure you have all necessary camping gear.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Explorers
It's recommended to keep your dog on a leash to respect other visitors and wildlife. Ensure your dog is comfortable with rough terrain if they'll be exploring off-road. Bringing plenty of water for your pet is essential, especially during warmer months.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1Visit during the fall for stunning foliage colors that complement the dramatic scenery. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for capturing the lake's serene beauty and the textures of the drowned forest. Be prepared for wind, which can add dynamic elements to your shots, but also be mindful of its impact on water reflections.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gros Ventre Landslide and Lake Formation
+1Today, the most striking visual reminder of this event is the drowned forest that still stands within the lake. The trunks of trees submerged nearly a century ago create an eerie and captivating scene, a popular subject for photographers and a unique feature that sets Lower Slide Lake apart.
+1Interestingly, the dam created by the landslide was not permanent. Nearly two years after the initial event, the dam failed, causing a catastrophic flood that tragically impacted the nearby town of Kelly. This historical context adds another layer of intrigue to the natural beauty of Lower Slide Lake.
Navigating the Access Road and Camping
Despite the challenging road, the reward is a secluded natural area with free campsites available right by the water. This offers a fantastic opportunity for dispersed camping and enjoying the tranquility of the lake. Visitors have praised the lack of crowds, especially during the fall, making it feel like a hidden gem.
When planning your visit, it's wise to come prepared for a rustic camping experience. While specific facilities are not detailed, being self-sufficient with food, water, and camping gear is advisable. The opportunity for a peaceful, free camping experience by the lake is a significant draw for many visitors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit