Blue Miner Lake
Jackson, Wyoming
| Address: | 16400 Gros Ventre Rd, Jackson, WY 83001, USA |
| GPS: |
43°33'35.7"N 110°30'58.7"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Wyoming |
Backpack and Hike
Blue Miner Lake is a stunning backcountry alpine lake in the Gros Ventre Wilderness east of Jackson, Wyoming — a hidden gem that many locals rank among Jackson Hole's very best lakes. Prized for its vivid Caribbean-blue water, surprisingly warm shallows, seclusion, and dramatic mountain scenery, it's a rewarding destination for strong hikers and backpackers willing to earn the view.
Reaching the lake is a serious effort. The trail (Blue Miner Lake #4095) climbs steeply into the Gros Ventre high country, gaining roughly 2,400 feet at an average grade well above what you'll find on gentler trails — a hard hike whether you do it as a long day trip or an overnight backpack. The trailhead lies up the Gros Ventre Road from Kelly, near Slide Lake and across from the Red Hills Campground. The payoff is a spectacular, secluded lake ringed by wild peaks, with those unusually inviting blue-green waters.
This is genuine wilderness, so come prepared: carry plenty of water and food, sturdy footwear, layers for changeable mountain weather, and a map, and get an early start to beat afternoon thunderstorms. This is grizzly and black bear country, so travel alert, carry bear spray, and store food properly if camping. Practice strict leave-no-trace and pack out everything.
Summer and early fall are the season, once the snow melts out of the high country. For adventurous hikers seeking a wild, beautiful, and blissfully quiet alpine lake near Jackson, Blue Miner Lake is a bucket-list reward.
More Information
Blue Miner Lake Trail
A hilly trail from the Red Hills campground, with some fording required. Finishes at the Blue Miner lake. Several…
https://www.outdooractive.com/en/route/hiking-trail/united-states/blue-miner-lake-trail/46385496/Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
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- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Jackson, Wyoming
- Head north on N Cache St toward E Deloney Ave (141 ft)
- Turn right at the 1st cross street onto E Deloney Ave (0.2 mi)
- Turn right onto Bruun Blvd (262 ft)
- Turn left at the 1st cross street onto E Broadway (0.8 mi)
- Continue onto 2240/National Elk Refuge Rd (3.6 mi)
- Turn left to stay on 2240/National Elk Refuge RdContinue to follow National Elk Refuge RdParts of this road may be closed at certain times or days(1.0 mi)
- Continue onto Flat Creek RdPartial restricted usage roadParts of this road may be closed at certain times or days(5.9 mi)
- Continue onto Forest Rd 30442Restricted usage road(3.6 mi)
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