Fremont Lake | Pinedale

Information

Landmark: Fremont Lake
City: Pinedale
Country: USA Wyoming
Continent: North America

Fremont Lake, Pinedale, USA Wyoming, North America

Fremont Lake is a large, glacially-formed freshwater lake situated near Pinedale, Wyoming, USA.

It is the second-largest natural lake in Wyoming by surface area.

Visual Characteristics

The lake's surface is typically a deep blue, reflecting the surrounding granite peaks and pine forests. The shoreline consists of a mix of sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, and areas of dense coniferous vegetation. The lakebed is composed of glacial till and bedrock.

Location & Access Logistics

Fremont Lake is located approximately 7 miles (11 km) west of Pinedale, Wyoming. Access is via Fremont Lake Road, which is a paved county road. Ample parking is available at the Fremont Lake Boat Launch and the adjacent day-use areas. No public transport services operate directly to the lake.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Fremont Lake was formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. The Pinedale Glaciation, which occurred approximately 20,000 years ago, carved out the basin that now holds the lake. It is classified as a proglacial lake.

Key Highlights & Activities

Boating, including motorboating and sailing, is permitted on the lake. Fishing for species such as lake trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon is a primary activity. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular. Hiking trails are accessible from the surrounding national forest land.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Fremont Lake Boat Launch. Picnic tables and some shaded areas are provided in designated day-use zones. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available near the boat launch and parking areas, but can be intermittent further out on the water or trails. No food vendors are located directly at the lake; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting Fremont Lake are from June through September, when the weather is typically mild and all access roads are clear of snow. For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer favorable lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun on the surrounding mountains. High tide is not a relevant factor for this lake.

Facts & Legends

Fremont Lake is named after explorer John C. Frémont. A local anecdote suggests that the lake's depth is so significant that it has never been fully sounded, though official measurements indicate a maximum depth of approximately 700 feet (213 meters).