Wrangler Lake Trail

Wrangler Lake Trail is a backcountry out-and-back from Wapiti Lake Trailhead across Hayden Valley to the shore of Wrangler Lake. The connected mapped route is about 4 miles each way, or 8 miles round trip, with roughly 500 feet of cumulative climbing. It is a long walk for a remote lake, not a roadside stroll; allow about four hours, plus time for stream crossings and stops.

From Wapiti Lake Trailhead, follow Wapiti Lake Trail east. Keep right at the first two forks, then turn left onto Wrangler Lake Trail and continue southeast to the lake. Retrace the same route. A trailhead description gives 10.2 miles round trip, while the connected trail geometry and an independent GPS route point to about 8 miles. Carry a current backcountry map and allow extra distance if the route you follow uses a different approach.

You must ford Sour Creek, and other stream crossings are reported along the way. Yellowstone's waters can be swift and cold, so scout each crossing and do not enter when it is unsafe. The route has average signage and several turns; take a map and know how to use it. Early summer can bring mosquitoes, so repellent and light long sleeves are useful.

Wrangler Lake is the turnaround and a backcountry campsite, 4W1, is nearby for hikers staying overnight with the required permit. The trailhead at Chittenden Bridge has a vault toilet and information kiosk; no food service or potable water is listed there, and none was found along the route. Carry what you need for the full outing.

Pets are not allowed on Yellowstone hiking trails. Carry bear spray and hike in a group of three or more, as the park recommends for backcountry travel. Check the current backcountry conditions map before setting out; available access information does not clearly resolve the route's current status.