Clear Lake-Wind Rivers

Clear Lake in the Big Sandy Lake area of the Wind River range is one of the prettiest alpine lakes I’ve visited. It is set in a large bowl with large prominent mountain peaks surrounding it. Its large size adds to the drama of the setting. Wildflowers dot the meadows surrounding the north side of the lake as well.

To reach the lake, hike the Big Sandy trail to Big Sandy Lake at the southern end of the wilderness. Then skirt the left side of the lake, pass the junction with the Big Sandy trail to Jackass Pass, and continue around the lake until you reach a crossing of the Big Sandy river. Several logs have been placed across the stream to aid in the crossing. Just before the crossing, you will see the only sign for Clear Lake–it points to Black Joe Lake and Clear Lake to the right. However, once the trail splits after the crossing, no signs tells you which way to go. I made the mistake of going left toward Black Joe lake. You can still reach Clear Lake from here but you needlessly ascend 300 more feet than necessary. So save yourself the trouble and go right at the junction. The trail finishes its circle of Big Sandy Lake and then ascends some gentle switchbacks up to Clear Lake. The lake is about 1 mile past Big Sandy Lake.

The lake itself is ringed by trees but feels very open. The trail leads around the north side of the lake and continues up to Deep Lake about 1.5 miles up the trail. Clear Lake is a great spot to watch sunrise and sunset, particularly if the winds are calm. The lake can produce some stunning reflections.