Place · 0.6 mi away
Overview
Island Lake sits right off the Beartooth Highway (US‑212) at roughly 9,500 feet, a classic alpine basin that makes an easy, rewarding stop. Think clear water, big-sky views, and quick access to the plateau’s trail network. It’s equally good for a leg‑stretch, a paddle, or staging a longer trip.
Amenities & Access
A short signed spur leads to parking and a concrete boat ramp with a mellow hand‑launch area. When the campground is open, expect vault toilets and potable water; when it’s closed, don’t rely on any services and be ready to park outside a closed gate and walk in. Trash service isn’t provided—pack out everything. Food storage is required and bear boxes are on site. The adjacent first‑come campground has 21 sites (max spur length 32 ft) and a 16‑day limit.
What To Do
- Paddling and fishing: The ramp makes launching simple, and the shoreline offers plenty of quiet corners.
- Hiking and backpacking: This is a handy trailhead for popular day hikes and multi‑day routes on the Beartooth Plateau.
Getting There & Nearby Services
Island Lake is about 25 miles east of Cooke City, WY, via a short signed spur off US‑212. Services are sparse up here. Top of the World Resort is the reliable stop for fuel, a small store, and restrooms; otherwise there’s no gas between Red Lodge and Cooke City. The Beartooth Highway is steep, winding, and often windy—large RVs and trailers are not recommended.
Season & Conditions
High elevation rules the day: weather flips fast and snow is possible any month. Bring warm layers and rain gear even in July. This is bear country—carry bear spray and follow food‑storage orders. In shoulder seasons the campground may be closed, which means no water or restrooms and potential gate closures at the spur road.
Best Time to Visit
Summer, when the campground is open and water is running, is the sweet spot. If you’re just road‑tripping, pair a mid‑day stop with a restroom and fuel break at Top of the World; if you’re launching a paddle, calm conditions often bookend the day. Shoulder seasons can be gorgeous but plan for closures and cold.
Avoiding Confusion
You’re aiming for Island Lake on the Beartooth Plateau along US‑212 (Shoshone National Forest)—not the similarly named lake reached from the West Rosebud/Mystic Lake trail system.
Pros
- Concrete boat ramp and easy hand-launching area
- Trailhead access to Beartooth Plateau hikes
- Campground with 21 sites and bear boxes (in season)
Cons
- Facilities and potable water are seasonal; closures occur
- Very limited nearby services along the highway
Tips
- If the gate is closed, park outside and walk in.
- Top of the World Resort is the only gas stop between Red Lodge and Cooke City.
- Expect no trash service—pack out all garbage.
- Potable water and toilets are seasonal; bring your own water when closed.
- Weather turns quickly at 9,500 ft; carry warm layers and bear spray.
