Wind River Alpine Lakes: Trout Fishing · #8
Cook Lakes
Wyoming, USA
The Cook Lakes Basin, a sprawling high-alpine area situated at elevations generally above 10,000 feet, offers a complex of interconnected lakes, each with its own character and fishing opportunities. This basin, found in the west-central part of the Wind River Range, is renowned for its diverse trout populations, including healthy cutthroat and golden trout. The landscape is a mosaic of open granite expanses, small pine forests, and numerous tarns, making it an ideal destination for exploring and finding your own private fishing hole. It’s less trafficked than some of the more famous destinations, offering a greater sense of solitude while still providing exceptional angling. Access to Cook Lakes can be achieved from several trailheads, but a common approach is via the Scab Creek Trailhead, requiring a multi-day hike that can range from 12-16 miles depending on which lakes you target. The trails are generally well-maintained but become more primitive as you explore deeper into the basin. This is a moderate to strenuous backpacking trip, suitable for those with good navigation skills and a willingness to explore. The best season is late July to September. While permits are not required, always check the latest regulations for the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The expansive nature of the basin means you can easily spend several days here, moving between lakes and enjoying varied fishing conditions. It's a great choice for those seeking a balance of good fishing and relative quiet. **Highlights** * Elevation: ~10,000-10,500 feet (multiple lakes) * Target Species: Cutthroat Trout, Golden Trout * Location: Extensive basin with numerous interconnected lakes * Access: Multi-day hike (12-16 miles) from trailheads like Scab Creek * Solitude: Generally less crowded than more famous areas * Exploration: Ideal for multi-day exploration and lake hopping **Watch-outs** * Navigation: Can be complex with many trails and off-trail sections * Weather: Exposure to high-altitude weather changes and sudden storms * Mosquitoes: Can be very heavy in early summer in forested areas * Bears: Both black and grizzly bears are present in the region; proper food storage is critical
Full profile in progress
We're building out complete profiles for every pick on every list — weather windows, wildlife, key attractions, and permit logistics. This entry is next in the queue. In the meantime, the ranked note above is our short answer for why it made the list.
Cook Lakes — frequently asked questions
- Is Cook Lakes worth the trip?
- We rank it #8 in Wind River Alpine Lakes: Trout Fishing. The Cook Lakes Basin, a sprawling high-alpine area situated at elevations generally above 10,000 feet, offers a complex of interconnected lakes, each with its own character and fishing opportunities. This basin, found in the west-central part of the Wind River Range, is renowned for its diverse trout populations,…
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Cook Lakes, Wyoming, United States.
Cook Lakes, Wyoming 82925, USA · 43.033, -109.599
