Golden Trout Lakes Trail CE

The Golden Trout Lakes Trail begins at the Windy Pass Trailhead along Portal Creek Road and climbs steadily through mixed forest and wildflower meadows toward a high alpine basin. After a short initial rise, the trail crosses Portal Creek and continues upward. At several unsigned junctions, keep right to stay on Trail #83 as it parallels cascading streams flowing down from the lakes above. As the trail crests into the basin, hikers are greeted by three clear alpine lakes, each holding populations of golden trout. The area offers excellent backcountry camping and high-elevation views of both the Gallatin and Absaroka ranges. Moose, marmots, and black bears are commonly seen along this route, and afternoon thunderstorms are frequent during midsummer. This route returns along the same trail, offering a second look at the dramatic scenery on the descent.