Place
Overview
This lesser-traveled spur peels off the North Shore Shoshone Lake Trail and climbs to a small, secluded lake tucked into a “pocket” of the Yellowstone Plateau. Expect a short but sustained ascent through lodgepole pine forest, intermittent peeks of Shoshone Lake, and a quiet shoreline at Pocket Lake itself.
Distance and route
From its junction, it’s roughly 1.1–1.2 miles one way (about 2.2–2.4 miles out-and-back) to Pocket Lake. The trail was purpose-built to stay above and away from the fragile creek that drains the lake to Shoshone Lake, and it’s well marked with bright orange markers that make navigation straightforward.
On the trail
The singletrack climbs steadily—about 358–440 feet in the first mile—before a brief dip into the lake’s basin. The walk is mostly in lodgepole forest with occasional glimpses of Shoshone Lake through the trees. Pocket Lake is small (around 14 acres) and supports cutthroat trout, adding a bit of interest for anglers who have the proper permit. Solitude is a calling card here; this spur is described as little known and infrequently traveled.
Difficulty and stats
Plan for an intermediate effort: a short distance with meaningful gain and some steeper pitches (grades can approach ~20% in spots). Elevation sits around the high 7,000s to a bit over 8,000 feet, which can make the climb feel punchier if you’re not acclimated.
Tips and how to extend
- Stay on the signed route and follow the orange markers—the official trail deliberately avoids the creek corridor to protect it.
- Looking for a bigger day? You can fold this spur into a longer outing that links DeLacy Creek to Shoshone Lake and the North Shore Shoshone Lake Trail for roughly 12.4 miles round-trip with about 1,306 feet of gain.
- Uses are hiking and trail running only; no bikes. Pets aren’t permitted on park trails.
Best time to hike
This is a forested route with limited vistas until the lake, so it’s a fine choice when you want a quieter stroll away from the crowds. Early or late in the day offers calmer shores and softer light at the lake. Weekdays tend to be even quieter.
Worth it?
If you like low-key forest walking to a peaceful water destination, this is a satisfying, under-the-radar add-on from Shoshone Lake. If you’re hunting for big views, there are better options—this one is about the destination’s quiet feel rather than vistas.
Pros
- Clear orange markers make wayfinding simple even in dense forest
- Quiet spur with a genuine sense of solitude
- Pocket Lake holds cutthroat trout for permitted anglers
Cons
- Limited views until you reach the lake
- Short but sustained climb at altitude can feel stout
Parking
Access the spur from the North Shore Shoshone Lake Trail; use established parking for that route and hike to the signed junction.
Caution
Follow the official marked route to protect the fragile creek corridor; expect short, steep grades and higher-elevation exertion. No pets or bikes.
