Harlequin Lake Trail - Hiking near Madison, Yellowstone National Park
Harlequin Lake, Wyoming 82190, USA,Madison,Wyoming
44.640465585059985, -110.8873916999695
Address: Harlequin Lake, Wyoming 82190, USA
GPS: 44°38'25.7"N 110°53'14.6"W
Maps | Directions
State: Wyoming
Trails/Routes: 0.8 mi

Lakes Trails National Park Pet Friendly

Hike

Harlequin Lake Trail is a beautiful short hike that can be taken in under an hour. This scenic hike is easy and family friendly, making it the perfect activity to add to any Yellowstone visit.

The trail begins on Highway 191 just west of Madison Campground and Madison Canyon. There are several pullout areas near the trailhead where parking is available.  Harlequin Lake Trail is approximately a half mile there and back. The trail is level and well established, making this a walk for hikers of any level.

The trail is surrounded by a pine forest made up of both large old trees and small new ones. Hikers on Harlequin Lake trail can also enjoy a view of the small, pine covered mountains in the distance.

At the end of the trail hikers enjoy a close-up view of Harlequin Lake. The lake is covered in lily pads with colorful flowers, and several varieties of waterfowls are frequently seen on the lake. This lake is named after the Harlequin duck that can be frequently seen in this area.

Despite its proximity to the highway, this beautiful hike is quiet and low in traffic making this a wonderful respite from the crowds that often occupy the busier Yellowstone areas. This easily accessible and walkable hike to Harlequin Lake is one you won’t want to miss.

Updated June 27, 2026
4.2K Written by tasiawhicker

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Harlequin Lake Trail, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Harlequin Lake Trail - short path through new growth pine woodland to a shallow lake lined with reeds and lilies, on the west side of Yellowstone

https://www.americansouthwest.net/wyoming/yellowstone/harlequin-lake-trail.html
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Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.

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  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
  2. Travel & camp on durable surfaces
  3. Dispose of waste properly
  4. Leave what you find
  5. Minimize campfire impacts
  6. Respect wildlife
  7. Be considerate of other visitors

Directions

From Madison, Yellowstone National Park

  1. Head north toward US-191 N/US-287 N/Hwy 20 W (210 ft)
  2. Turn left onto US-191 N/US-287 N/Hwy 20 W
    Toll road
    May be closed at certain times or days
    (1.5 mi)
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Harlequin Lake by hike734
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Added by tasiawhicker

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