Overview
Lake Marie sits at 10,388 feet along the Snowy Range Scenic Byway in the Wyoming unit of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, just below the quartzite ridge that leads to Medicine Bow Peak. The lake's clear waters reflect the white quartzite peaks above, creating one of the more photographed mountain lake scenes in Wyoming. The distinctive white quartzite that gives the Snowy Range its name formed as ancient seabed sediment compressed over hundreds of millions of years, then uplifted in the Laramide orogeny. The resulting pale rock contrasts sharply against the dark spruce forest below and the blue sky above. The loop trail circles the lake and connects to the tundra terrain above, making this the best accessible introduction to the Snowy Range environment.
Several large rock cairns mark the tundra sections of the route, which can be less obvious in areas where the trail crosses bare rock. The ecosystem here is true alpine tundra above treeline: low-growing willows, cushion plants, and sedge meadows replace the forest, and the wind exposure is constant on the lake's far side.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 0.5: Trailhead to Lake Shore
The trail begins at the Lake Marie parking area and drops slightly to the lake shore via a short, paved section. Morning light on the lake creates the best reflection conditions. In still-air mornings in July, the peak's reflection fills the entire southern end of the lake. The transition from the parking area to the lake shore is quick, making this a popular stop even for visitors who do not plan to complete the full loop.
Miles 0.5 to 2.0: Lake Circuit
The loop follows the lake shore on a mix of trail and boardwalk across the more fragile tundra and bog sections. Stepping stones cross small inlets. The trail traverses the tundra sections on the lake's far side where the terrain becomes more open and rocky. The view of Medicine Bow Peak changes substantially through this section: from the south shore it appears as a broad, rounded ridge, while from the north shore the peak's steeper east face is more prominent. Marmots and pikas inhabit the boulder fields on the far side, and their alarm calls carry clearly across the water.
Miles 2.0 to 3.0: Return to Trailhead
The final section climbs slightly back to the trailhead parking area through a series of gentle rises on the north shore. This is the most protected section from prevailing afternoon winds, making it a comfortable finish even on breezy days.
When to Hike
July through August the loop is fully accessible. Wildflowers bloom in the meadow sections through July, with alpine species including paintbrush, bistort, and sky pilot appearing in the rocky tundra sections of the loop's far side.
September the lake is at its clearest and crowds have thinned significantly after Labor Day. First autumn frosts add color to the tundra vegetation, and the willows around the inlet areas turn gold and rust. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway typically remains open into October but can close early with significant snowfall.
Afternoons bring thunderstorm potential on the exposed sections. The loop offers no shelter above the treeline. Morning visits are the standard recommendation for summer hiking anywhere in the Snowy Range.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. The lake water is filterable for emergency use, but the short distance makes this rarely necessary. Sun protection is important at this elevation even on overcast days; the thin atmosphere at 10,000 feet allows more UV than visitors may expect. Layers for the wind are practical since the exposed sections of the loop can be noticeably cooler and windier than the parking area. Waterproof footwear helps on the bog and inlet crossing sections.
Trailhead Access
Lake Marie trailhead on Wyoming Highway 130 (Snowy Range Scenic Byway), approximately 32 miles west of Laramie. The byway typically opens in late May or early June depending on snowpack. Check current road status before driving, as it closes seasonally and can close temporarily during late-season storms. No fee to park or hike (as of 2026). Vault toilet and paved parking at the trailhead.
Nearby
Medicine Bow Peak Trail departs from the same area and provides the summit option above the lake, adding approximately 2,000 feet of elevation gain and several more miles. Rawah Wilderness Lakes Loop is a longer multi-day destination in the Colorado unit for those wanting a more remote backcountry experience.
Check byway opening dates at checking conditions before you go. Practice Leave No Trace principles around the lake shore where concentrated foot traffic requires staying on established paths.