High Country Options

July 5, 2018

With the recent passing of the summer solstice and the increasing number of hot and sunny days, it’s time to start heading up into the high country for some cooler temperatures and awesome still-water fishing. We’ve compiled a list of high country options ranging in difficulty levels to choose from. All of these lakes are great for camping and backpacking and can be turned into a multi-day adventure to get away from the mainstream hustle and bustle of life.

Rainbow Lakes

Rainbow Lakes are located in the Zirkel Wilderness and are about a 3.5 mile hike one way. There are two lakes at the top of the trail which both provide great fishing opportunities. This is a great trail for the beginner backpacker or can also be done as a day hike.

Bighorn Lake

Bighorn can be reached from the Lone Pine Trailhead located at the end of County Road 16, directly west of Walden. It is approximately a 3.5 mile hike one way that is ranked as difficult.

Lake Kathrine

Also located at the Lone Pine Trailhead, Lake Kathrine is another difficult 2.3 mile hike. Lake Kathrine and Bighorn Lake make for a challenging, yet rewarding multi-night camping trip for the experienced backpacker.

Clear Lake

Located in the Rawah Wilderness, Clear Lake is about a 9.5 mile hike that is ranked as difficult. It’s great for the experienced backpacker looking to get away.

Kelly Lake

Also located in the Rawah Wilderness, Kelly Lake is about a 7.5 mile hike that is ranked as difficult. Again, it is great for the experienced backpacker. Clear and Kelly make a great multi-night backpacking trip as they are only about two miles away from each other and can be reached from the same trail head.

Seven Lakes

Seven Lakes is an 11 mile hike located above Big Creek. Not for the faint of heart, but another good option for those looking to get away from people.

American Lakes

This trail is 6.8 miles and can be ranked as difficult. There are two lakes connected by a small creek as well as a third lake up above the two. All three lakes have stunning scenery.

Lake Agnes

Lake Agnes is located on Cameron Pass and is about a one mile hike one way. It’s great for families as it is a short and easy hike in and provides good fishing and camping opportunities as well.

Fishing techniques at all of these lakes will consist of terrestrials such as ants, beetles, spiders and hoppers with droppers such as soft hackle hairs ears and pheasant tails. Come into the shop to get all of the bugs you will need, as well as a map and friendly advice! Fish on!

Written by: Taylor Martin