Big Sandy Lake Trail

Route Description for Big Sandy Lake Trail

The Big Sandy Lake Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the Wind River Range because it is used as a gateway into the backcountry, and most don’t even realize that this route is a beautiful destination in and of itself. Providing access to the Bridger Wilderness, the Continental Divide, and the Cirque of the Towers, this route is well-traveled, so arrive early for a more tranquil experience and to secure a spot in the trailhead parking lot. As with all types of exploration in the area, it is important to be bear aware—make sure you or someone in your party carry a can of bear spray and knows how to use it.

The Big Sandy Lake Trail grants exceptional views of the Wind River Mountains that rise above the lush sub-alpine terrain. Offering more than just incredible sights of the mountainscape, this path offers the exploration of meadows bursting with Indian Paintbrush, columbines, fireweeds, and a diversity of wildlife. With limited elevation change, this route is also ideal for novice hikers and families with older children eager to discover Wyoming’s famous backcountry. Don’t forget to bring your camera, the views along this path are quite photogenic! We love this adventure, and we bet you will too.

Embark on this amazing expedition from the Big Sandy Trailhead. After some loops around the parking lot, hopefully, you will find a parking spot. Making your way to the trailhead, you will briefly hike the Fremont Trail, crossing the footbridge over a meandering creek before reaching the Big Sandy Trail. From this junction, veer left and follow the Big Sandy Trail north. Wandering along the lazy river, the scenic route will consistently climb through a stand of lodgepoles and mixed pines. After some hiking, the path will divert away from the riverbank and into a lush meadow that offers motivating views of the looming Wind River Mountains peeking above the treeline.

Continue along the mildly undulating path, nearing the river again. As you hike, be mindful of wildlife, you never know what you will find out here! Soon the path will reach Diamond Lake—this is a good place to turn around if you are already exhausted. If you still have some gas left in the tank, persist further into the Bridger Wilderness. Mind your footing on the increasingly rocky and uneven terrain and marvel at the scene of Schiestler Peak towering above. From here, breathtaking views of Big Sandy Mountain will unfold before you.

Continue hiking, and you will ultimately reach the shoreline of Big Sandy Lake. Rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly alpine waters and revel in the grandeur of the impressive granite peaks that encircle you. On a calm day, you will be granted the scene of the lake mirroring the bounding summits.
Appreciate the beauty of the unspoiled wilderness and make friends with the resting trekkers heading deeper into the range. When you are ready, simply retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Big Sandy Mountain

Big Sandy Mountain is a prominent summit that stands at an elevation of 3,784 m in the Wind River Range. Located on the Continental Divide, this mountain sits just south of Dog Tooth Peak, framing the Big Sandy Lake below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Big Sandy Trailhead?

The Big Sandy Trailhead is located at the end of the Big Sandy Opening Road, which merges off the Lander Cutoff Road.

How long is the Big Sandy Lake Hike?

The Big Sandy Lake Trail is a 17.5 km out-and-back hike in the Bridger Wilderness.