Ski Lake Hike
Drive time from Alpine: 1 hour
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours up, 30 minutes down
Distance: 4 miles round trip
What to bring: Sunscreen, Bear Spray, lunch, and bug spray
Where to eat afterwards: Picas at the Stagecoach Bar in Wilson web »

When you don’t have enough time to fit in all the wonderful hikes our area has to
offer, be sure to pick one that has a little bit of everything! Ski Lake is an easy to moderate hike located about half way up Teton Pass about 2 miles east of Wilson, WY.

Parking is provided on either side of the highway; however, it’s recommended to park on the north side so that you don’t have to cross over the busy highway. There is a well-marked map of the regions many hiking, biking and horse trails. As you start the hike up the gravel road, you’ll see the trail maker, on your left, for Ski Lake and Phelps Canyon. This trail is designated for hiking and horses only.

The first section of the hike a perfect warm up which plateaus to a flat section full of flowers and beautiful views to the southwest. Soon you’ll stop hearing any noise from the road as you hike deeper into the forest. Next up is a steeper grade with some loose rocks; however, it’s fairly short with a wonderful spot to rest at the top. After catching your breath you’ll enter a denser section of forest where you’ll go down hill a bit and come out into a beautiful large meadow.

Climbing out of the meadow will give you the best views behind you of the town of Jackson and Snow King. There is one “false summit” where you think the lake should be, but keep hiking because you’re very close. After some aspen trees and an incredible view (don’t be afraid to take some of the short trail off-shoots to get some photos!) you’ll be at the lake. Pull out the bug spray first because those pesky mosquitoes are always there, but once you find a spot to sit and enjoy a break, you’ll become very relaxed.

This is a busy trail so don’t expect solitude unless you’re an early riser or don’t mind hiking down in the dark. The hike down goes quickly so enjoy it while you’re there. If you’re only there to hike and not stay for lunch, be sure to stop for a burrito at Picas inside the Stagecoach Bar at the base of Teton Pass.

Download Forest Service Map

View Ski Lake Trailhead, Jackson Wyoming in a larger map