Overview
Mistymoon Lake is considered one of the crown jewels of the Cloud Peak Wilderness in Bighorn National Forest. Situated in a high cirque basin at approximately 10,400 feet, the lake reflects Cloud Peak and the surrounding ridge in its clear surface. The route through the wilderness is among the most scenic lake hikes in the northern Rockies, combining dense subalpine forest, open meadows, and the dramatic granite-and-water landscape of the glacially carved high country.
The trail approaches from the same trailhead as the Cloud Peak Summit route, sharing the first few miles before branching toward the lake basin. Many hikers combine the lake as a base camp for a summit attempt the following morning, which makes Mistymoon a natural destination for overnight backpackers as well as day hikers.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 2.5: Trailhead through subalpine forest. The trail climbs from the FR-27 trailhead through Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir, crossing the wilderness boundary within the first mile. Smaller tarns appear in openings along the route, and the sound of running water is constant from the creek drainage on the left. The footing is good on this section: packed dirt trail with occasional rock scrambles.
Miles 2.5 to 3.8: Above treeline approach to the basin. The forest thins as the trail climbs above treeline onto alpine tundra and tundra meadow. Wildflowers carpet the meadow sections in late July, with sky pilot, alpine buttercup, and phlox among the most common species. The trail becomes less distinct on rock slabs; follow cairns. The Mistymoon Lake basin comes into view from above the rim before the trail descends briefly to the shore.
Miles 3.8 to 7.6: Return. Return via the same route. The descent from the basin is quicker than the approach and takes most hikers 2 to 2.5 hours.
When to Hike
Late July through August offers the most reliable conditions. The lake basin clears of snow in mid-July in most years, and the wildflower display peaks from late July through early August. Afternoon thunderstorms are common; plan to be off the exposed upper trail by noon if possible.
Early July can still have significant snow cover near the lake in heavy snow years. Check with the Buffalo Ranger District for current conditions before committing to the drive.
September brings autumn quiet. First snow at this elevation can arrive in late September, and the lake may be cold and windswept. The mountain views from the basin remain excellent as long as weather cooperates.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for the day. The lake and creek provide filterable water sources along the route. Layers are worth carrying even in August: lake basin temperatures can drop quickly when afternoon clouds build. Wyoming fishing license if you plan to fish for the native cutthroat in the lake. Trekking poles help on the rock slabs near the basin rim.
Trailhead Access
The Edelman trailhead is on FR-27 off US-16, accessed from the west side of the Bighorns near Tensleep. No fee to park or hike (as of 2026). Facilities are very limited at the trailhead. The forest road requires high-clearance or 4WD in some conditions; check current road status before departure. Cell service is absent. Download offline maps before leaving the highway.
Nearby
Cloud Peak Summit Trail shares this trailhead and offers the ultimate high-country objective for experienced mountaineers. Edelman Pass Trail departs from the same area and provides a challenging crossing of the main divide.
Check conditions and road status at checking conditions before you go. Practice Leave No Trace principles especially at the lake shore where concentrated camping has historically impacted fragile tundra soils.