Bridge Lake

Difficulty: Moderate
Trip Type: Multi-Day Backpacking
Distance: ~20 miles round trip
Elevation: 9,614 feet
Coordinates: 45.26612, -110.34525
Time: 3-night trip
Access: Maintained trail for 9.5 miles, followed by 0.5 miles off-trail. Departs from Bridge Creek Trail #25.
Bugs: Minimal (little to no bugs)

Getting there

The hike departs from the Bridge Creek Trail #25 access point located in the Boulder drainage.

The hike

The outbound trek spans roughly 10 miles with 3,500 feet of total elevation gain. The initial 4 to 5 miles of the trail are fairly moderate and accessible. Beyond this point, the terrain becomes quite steep as you push up the drainage. The trail eventually breaks out into a stunning opening with excellent flat ground.

This meadow is the primary staging area for a multi-day stay, though it sits a bit of a distance from your final destination. To reach the actual shore of Bridge Lake, you must leave the main campsite area for a final 2-mile push that climbs a little over 1,000 vertical feet. The final half-mile to the water requires off-trail navigation.

Tips & safety

• Camping: Abundant camping opportunities are located in the large mountain opening, but plan your water carries accordingly since this main camping zone is located 2 miles below the lake basin.

• Points of Interest: Keep an eye out for a historic cabin located about 1 hour up the initial trail. To find it, branch off the main path and head downhill along a distinct side track.

• Wildlife: We had an unexpected close encounter with a black bear on this trip. Carry bear spray and practice proper multi-day food storage protocols.

• Fishing: FWP and GNIS data listed for Yellowstone Cutthroat. The lake holds small fish, but the jaw-dropping views looking both in front of you and behind you make the effort well worth it.