Slide Lake - Northern Wind River Mountains
Page Summary: Slide Lake is nestled between Lost Eagle Peak and the well known Flat Top Mountain in the Wind River Mountain Range.
About Slide Lake
Slide Lake is nestled between Lost Eagle Peak and the well known Flat Top Mountain in Wyoming’s Wind River Mountain Range. The Lake is due east of Upper Green River Lake in the Northern section of the Bridger Wilderness. Due to Slide Lake’s beautiful views and great full day hike potential, this area is a popular destination.
Driving Directions
From Pinedale travel northwest on highway 191 to the Cora Y. Turn right onto highway 352 and continue to the Green River Lakes campground and trailhead. The last 23 miles are unpaved but fairly well maintained. A car should have no problem reaching the Green River Lakes campground and trailhead.
The Trail to Slide Lake
To reach Slide Lake, begin hiking from the Green River Lakes Trailhead. Follow the trail along the northeastern side of the lake heading southeast. After passing the lake, the trail will fork at Clear Creek. Take the left fork and pass Clear Creek Falls. Continue past the falls until the trail forks again. This time bear to the right and cross a foot bridge over Clear Creek. Cross a meadow and begin ascending through timber. The trail switch-backs along Slide Creek and often allows a glimpse of a cascade. As you near the lake you will pass Fish Bowl Springs. Fish Bowl Springs is a very unique spring that is the size of a small swimming pool teeming with brook trout. Fish Bowl Springs is an excellent place to take a break as you have just climbed about 1300 vertical feet in elevation. Continue on just a little further to the lake. Slide Lake is great for a full day hike. A hearty individual should have no problem getting in and out in a day, especially since the way out is almost all downhill.
Fishing at Slide Lake
Slide Lake offers excellent fishing. Brook trout and cutthroats will be the most common catch. There is also great fishing in the Green River and Green River Lakes. The species will be more diverse in these bodies of water ranging form white fish and suckers to nearly every kind of trout except golden.
Camping at Slide Lake
Breathtaking views of Flat Top Mountain on your left and Lost Eagle Peak on your right await you at Slide Lake. The lake offers good fishing and has good camping sights on the north shore. If you are going to camp please camp in an already established sight to minimize impact. The same goes for fire rings.
If you do decide to camp, there are a few precautions you should take. The Upper Green River area of the Wind River Mountain Range is home to a vast assortment of wildlife. On your hike you can expect to see mule deer, elk, moose, antelope, big horn sheep, coyotes, wolves, and yes…bears. Both species of bears, Black and Grizzly, are found in this area. In fact, if you are going to see a Grizzly in the Wind River Mountains it will most likely be in the Green River Lakes area. The Pinedale Ranger District will have current reports on any bear activity in the area and also have bear-proof food storage containers for rent. Carrying a can of bear repellent is a good idea. Make sure to keep a clean camp and store your food properly.
The trail ends at the lake but adventurous souls can continue on. Swimming should be left for the heartier folks as the lake normally doesn’t completely thaw until the end of June. Make sure you are aware of all back country regulations and leave the area as you found so other visitors can also enjoy Slide Lake.
