Shoshone Lake Yellowstone National Park
A sprawling, remote backcountry lake in Yellowstone, perfect for canoeing, fishing, and experiencing true wilderness solitude.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for backpacking trips
Shoshone Lake Yellowstone National Park
Best Time
Ideal for backpacking trips
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling, remote backcountry lake in Yellowstone, perfect for canoeing, fishing, and experiencing true wilderness solitude.
"A wonderful backcountry lake, vast and surrounded by forested mountains – what more can be asked for?"
🛶 Canoe Adventure Awaits
Don't miss the chance to canoe! Explore hidden streams and unique geological formations like lava tubes.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 5 reviews
Type
Lake
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canoeing to Lava Tubes
Behind Moose Creek Beach Campsite
Paddle through a hidden stream to discover intriguing lava tubes accessible by canoe. A unique adventure for explorers!
Vast Wilderness Lake
Shoshone Lake
Experience the immense beauty of a sprawling backcountry lake surrounded by forested mountains. Pure natural serenity.
Fly Fishing Paradise
Shoshone Lake
Cast your line in the pristine waters of Shoshone Lake, a renowned spot for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking a remote experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Backcountry Permit Essentials
Gear Up for the Wilderness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Shoshone Lake in Yellowstone National Park
🛶 Canoe Adventure Awaits
Don't miss the chance to canoe! Explore hidden streams and unique geological formations like lava tubes.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
Shoshone Lake - Yellowstone NP
How do you put into words something epic? More than 2 years ago I watched a video of a paddleboarding trip into the backcountry of Yellowstone and knew that I had to do that trip. At that time I had only been on a paddle board once but I had to go. Late last year the planning…
Best Yellowstone Backcountry Camping Spots?
My wife and I are planning a trip to Yellowstone in mid July and we want to do a bit of hiking in the backcountry. We are thinking of doing a 2 day 1 night trip but I am having some trouble deciding on a route and a spot to camp for the night as we've never been to Yellowstone.…
💧 Water Purification is Key
Bring a reliable water filter or purification tablets. Natural water sources are abundant but need treatment.
🗺️ Master Your Navigation
Cell service is non-existent. Rely on maps, compass, and GPS devices for safe backcountry travel.
Backcountry itinerary recommendations and advice for 2-3 nights.
Hello all, I am lucky enough to have a very early spot in this year's backcountry permit lottery. I want to make the most of it, but I have never visited the park. I consider myself an experienced backpacker. I would like to plan a 2-3/4 night trip in the park for a friend and…
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Canoe Adventure Awaits
Don't miss the chance to canoe! Explore hidden streams and unique geological formations like lava tubes.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
💧 Water Purification is Key
Bring a reliable water filter or purification tablets. Natural water sources are abundant but need treatment.
🗺️ Master Your Navigation
Cell service is non-existent. Rely on maps, compass, and GPS devices for safe backcountry travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shoshone Lake for its vast, serene beauty and excellent backcountry fishing opportunities. The unique experience of canoeing to lava tubes is a memorable highlight for many. However, the challenging access and the need for extensive preparation are significant considerations for potential visitors.
"Really enjoyed it. Went with my scout troop, and had a lot of fun canoeing place to place. There is a little stream/pond behind moose creek beach campsite, and if you follow it the the end there are what i believe to be lava tubes, that you can canoe over. highly suggest it."
Errol Litster
"Wonderful backcountry lake. Vast in size surrounding by forest covered mountains. What more can be asked for?"
Ernest Kyed
"Was there when 15 am now 75 years old"
Gary Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Shoshone Lake is primarily by watercraft (canoe or kayak) from the South Boundary Trailhead or via a strenuous hike. The most common route involves paddling across Lewis Lake and then portaging to Shoshone Lake.
For backpacking, the most popular route is hiking the South Boundary Trail to the lake. This is a challenging but rewarding trek.
No, there are no roads that lead directly to Shoshone Lake. It is a designated backcountry area accessible only by foot or watercraft.
The travel time varies greatly depending on your chosen method. Paddling can take several hours, while hiking can take a full day or more, depending on your pace and the route.
Yes, you can drive to the South Boundary Trailhead, which is a common starting point for both hiking and the portage to Lewis Lake, the gateway to Shoshone Lake.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a backcountry permit is required for any overnight stays in the Shoshone Lake area. Permits are obtained through a lottery system or on a first-come, first-served basis at backcountry offices.
Permits are typically secured via an advance lottery system for popular dates, or you can try to obtain one in person at a Yellowstone backcountry permit office.
There is a small fee associated with backcountry permits, which varies annually. Check the official Yellowstone National Park website for current pricing.
Yes, standard Yellowstone National Park entrance fees apply. These are typically per vehicle and valid for seven days.
The advance lottery application period usually opens in early spring for the summer season. It's highly recommended to apply as early as possible due to high demand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Shoshone Lake is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, fly fishing, and backcountry camping. The surrounding wilderness offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Yes, Shoshone Lake is renowned for its excellent fly fishing opportunities, particularly for cutthroat trout.
Yes, there are designated backcountry campsites around Shoshone Lake, which you will be assigned when obtaining your permit.
You might encounter bison, elk, bears, and various smaller mammals and birds. Always maintain a safe distance and practice wildlife safety.
While technically possible, the water is very cold year-round, making swimming an extreme activity. It's not a common or recommended activity.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Safety
Camping is only permitted in designated backcountry sites. Strict regulations regarding food storage, fire restrictions, and Leave No Trace principles are enforced.
Bear canisters are highly recommended, and in some areas, mandatory. All food and scented items must be stored properly to prevent bear encounters.
Campfires are often restricted or prohibited in the backcountry due to fire danger. Always check current fire regulations before your trip.
Stay calm, do not run, and make yourself appear larger. Speak in a calm voice and slowly back away. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
No, there is no potable water available. You must bring your own water or have a reliable method for purifying water from natural sources.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit