Hauser Lake

Though it seems daunting to hike in the thin air near the top of Beartooth Pass, the route to Hauser Lake is quick and easy. This short trail provides accessibility to the Beartooth backcountry for hikers of all abilities.

Intro

Begin the hike from the Hauser Lake Trailhead sign along the Beartooth Highway. Follow the trail south amidst a field of wildflowers and weathered granite outcroppings. Initially, this alpine tundra section might be boggy and wet, but the trail quickly improves as it descends. In the next section, follow the path along the edge of a forest of aspens and white pine. The trail is clear and has good footing with a bed of dry pine needles across the path. Up ahead, steep and rocky Sawtooth Mountain stands prominently above the plateau. After a brief downhill stretch, spot Hauser Lake through the trees and then arrive at the north shore of the lake just 3/4 mile from the trailhead. It’s possible to leave the trail here and explore around the grassy shores of the lake, or hikers can choose to continue toward Solar Lake, Losekamp Lake, and the many unnamed lakes and ponds along the trail. Turning back at Hauser Lake, the high altitude may become more apparent during the 200-foot climb back to the trailhead. Take your time and enjoy the views while catching your breath.

What Makes It Great

Within minutes of starting this hike, the noise of the busy Beartooth Highway fades away. Watch for marmots scurrying among the rocks and listen for the high chirp of native Black Rosy-Finches in the trees. Hauser Lake lies within the relatively flat and high Beartooth Plateau, which was created by glacial activity over millions of years. At the high point of the trail, look for evidence of glacial erosion all the way to the horizon. Kettle lakes, rounded boulders, glacial till, and terminal moraines are all visible from this trail.

Who is Going to Love It

Travelers driving the Beartooth Highway may spend many hours in the car, and this hike is a great opportunity to get out and stretch. Hauser Lake Trailhead is also a popular entry point for longer hikes and backpacking trips on the Beartooth Loop National Recreation Trail. Fishing is allowed in Hauser Lake with a Wyoming fishing license. Adventurous swimmers and dogs will find that the water temperature is swimmable on sunny afternoons.

Directions, Parking & Regulations

Hauser Lake Trailhead is accessible directly from the Beartooth Highway. From Cody, travel north on WY-120 for 17 miles and turn left on the Chief Joseph Highway (WY-296). In 45 miles, turn right on the Beartooth Highway (WY-212) and continue for 14 miles. On the right side of the road, look for the Beartooth Loop sign for the Hauser Lake Trailhead. A turnout on the left provides parking for about four vehicles. No fees or permits are required, and no cell phone service is available along this trail.

Difficulty: 2 

Time to Complete: 1 hour

Distance: 1.5 miles round trip

Seasonality: Summer

Fees/Permit: No

Dog Friendly: On Leash 

Destination Highlights: Short, scenic walk from the Beartooth Highway