+ 7
Seneca and Lost Lakes
Hiking Trail
Hard
26.16 mi
4,445 ft
An overnight hike or all-day trail run to stunning glacial lakes known for their excellent fishing—a great alternative to Titcomb Basin.
Though [Titcomb Basin]( is one of the most highly-acclaimed backpacking routes in the Winds, this route should be considered a close second. Located along same path to Titcomb Basin, this loop spurs off onto the [Continental Divide Trail]( then loops back on a lesser-traveled path along Lost Lake.
The trailhead is known by many names, including Elkhart Park, Sacred Rim, Long Lake, and is even listed on some maps as a Sublette County parking. It's an ~30-minute drive from Pinedale and paved the entire way.
Open June 1st, [Trails End Campground]( is also located at the trailhead and offers several primitive campsites, including some suitable for RVs and trailers. However, availability is limited, and all campsites are first-come, first-serve, so plan accordingly.
As mapped, this route is a "lollipop," with Pole Creek and Seneca Lake Trails as the "stick," and the Highline Trail/CDT and an unnamed game trail forming the loop at the end. The trail to Lost Lake is infrequently used, but most claim it's easier to follow when hiked clockwise. About halfway to the lake, the path can become hard to follow, but this GPS line should keep you closely on track.
The Winds are a fly fisherman's paradise, and this loop is no different. Though Seneca Lake is a popular destination for the sport, other sources suggest that Lost Lake is home to Rainbow, Brook, and even Cutthroat Trout! Though many have been skunked, the lake's inlets typically offer the best chance of a worthwhile catch.
If fishing is your goal, consider a detour to Island Lake, not far up Indian Pass Trail. Its popularity makes it less desirable among those seeking solitude, but the lake will surely provide a few fish if neither Lost nor Seneca Lake live up to their reputation.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Though [Titcomb Basin]( is one of the most highly-acclaimed backpacking routes in the Winds, this route should be considered a close second. Located along same path to Titcomb Basin, this loop spurs off onto the [Continental Divide Trail]( then loops back on a lesser-traveled path along Lost Lake.
The trailhead is known by many names, including Elkhart Park, Sacred Rim, Long Lake, and is even listed on some maps as a Sublette County parking. It's an ~30-minute drive from Pinedale and paved the entire way.
Open June 1st, [Trails End Campground]( is also located at the trailhead and offers several primitive campsites, including some suitable for RVs and trailers. However, availability is limited, and all campsites are first-come, first-serve, so plan accordingly.
As mapped, this route is a "lollipop," with Pole Creek and Seneca Lake Trails as the "stick," and the Highline Trail/CDT and an unnamed game trail forming the loop at the end. The trail to Lost Lake is infrequently used, but most claim it's easier to follow when hiked clockwise. About halfway to the lake, the path can become hard to follow, but this GPS line should keep you closely on track.
The Winds are a fly fisherman's paradise, and this loop is no different. Though Seneca Lake is a popular destination for the sport, other sources suggest that Lost Lake is home to Rainbow, Brook, and even Cutthroat Trout! Though many have been skunked, the lake's inlets typically offer the best chance of a worthwhile catch.
If fishing is your goal, consider a detour to Island Lake, not far up Indian Pass Trail. Its popularity makes it less desirable among those seeking solitude, but the lake will surely provide a few fish if neither Lost nor Seneca Lake live up to their reputation.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elkhart to Photographers Pt Climb | 5.05 mi | 991 ft | 3.7% |
| Skyline Dr Climb | 1.77 mi | 627 ft | 6.7% |
| Skyline Drive Climb | 0.60 mi | 144 ft | 4.5% |
| Skyline Dr Climb | 0.32 mi | 187 ft | 11.1% |
| Skyline Dr Climb | 0.55 mi | 210 ft | 7.1% |