Top 4 Lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains
Best lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains offer a diverse range of experiences, from easily accessible scenic spots to more remote alpine lakes. This region, particularly within the Snowy Range, is home to numerous picturesque alpine lakes. Visitors can find opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying impressive mountain views. The area provides options for families, adventurous hikers, and anglers alike.
Best lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains
- The most popular lakes is Barber Lake, a lake that sits atβ¦
Last updated: October 1, 2026
Barber Lake
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Forest Road 351 F and Barber Lake Trail
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Zimmerman Lake
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Lookout Lake
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Twin Crater Lakes
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Just below the 12,013-foot Medicine Bow Peak, Lookout Lake is a beautiful mountain lake. The trail to the lake is really popular, but the lake is big enough to offer some solitude even when crowds are present. There are a number of other alpine lakes in the area if you are wanted to extend your hike a bit.
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Barber Lake's roadside access makes it a great place to start, stop, or turn around on a ride along the nearby Barber Lake Trail (sometimes also called the Libby Creek Trail, since it ties in to the trail of that same name). If you start your ride here you can power up the trail's consistent elevation gain, then pretty much coast on the way back. Or you can make a loop by riding one way on Barber Lake Road. Barber Lake Trail, itself, is fun single and double track. Believe it or not, this is a great place for spotting butterflies too. Keep an eye out for species like the hoary anglewing and the green comma if you pause in your ride.
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Pretty Barber Lake is a great roadside destination, but it also makes a decision point (or starting place) for runners, as you can choose from several routes here. One fun option is to power up the single- and double-track of the Barber Lake Trail β with consistent elevation gain that will have your thighs burning β then loop around and freewheel it on the descent along Barber Lake Road.
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Pretty Barber Lake sits at the juncture of the trail and the road of the same name. This is a great place to start or end a hike, or to piece together a loop between the Barber Lake Trail and Barber Lake Road. This area is also surprisingly good for spotting butterflies and moths. Keep an eye out for unusual species including the hoary anglewing and the green comma.
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The Twin Crater Lakes are a truly stunning set of alpine lakes deep in the seldom-visited Rawah Wilderness. Those who do decide to make the trek up to these lakes are rewarded with stunning views, solitude, and in the summer, amazing wildflowers on the shores of the lakes.
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Zimmerman Lake is a scenic, small lake ringed with fir and spruce trees in the Roosevelt National Forest. This lake is a great habitat for native cutthroat trout, which you can sometimes see jumping out of the water for bugs. This picturesque spot is accessible via a relatively short, moderate trail on an old logging road, making it a great destination for people of all ages and ability levels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains are easily accessible by car or offer short, easy walks?
For convenient access, consider Lake Marie and Mirror Lake, both located along the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. Lake Marie features a paved, accessible path, while Mirror Lake has picnic and parking areas right by the water. Libby Lake and Lewis Lake, accessible from the Sugarloaf Recreation Area, also offer easy access for a relaxing lakeside experience.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Barber Lake is a popular roadside destination with options for short walks. Zimmerman Lake is another excellent choice, accessible via a relatively short, moderate trail on an old logging road, suitable for all ages. Lake Marie and Mirror Lake also provide accessible paths and picnic spots perfect for family outings.
What outdoor activities can I do around the lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains?
The lakes offer a variety of activities. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, picnicking, and non-motorized boating. For specific hiking routes, explore options like the family-friendly hikes or more challenging hiking trails in the region. Brooklyn Lake is particularly popular for kayaking and canoeing, while many lakes, including Libby Lake, are stocked for fishing.
Which lakes offer the best scenic views or photography opportunities?
Mirror Lake is renowned for its stunning, still waters that reflect the surrounding mountains, making it a prime spot for photography. Lake Marie also provides impressive mountain views, including Medicine Bow Peak. Lookout Lake, situated just below Medicine Bow Peak, offers breathtaking alpine scenery.
Are there any remote or less-visited lakes for solitude in the Medicine Bow Mountains?
For a more adventurous and solitary experience, consider North Gap Lake and South Gap Lake. These are accessed via an approximately 4-mile out-and-back hike, offering beautiful alpine scenery away from the main highway. The Twin Crater Lakes, deep in the Rawah Wilderness, also provide stunning views and solitude for those willing to make the trek.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains?
The best time to visit is typically during the summer months, from late June through early September, when the Snowy Range Scenic Byway is fully open and weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor activities. This period offers pleasant temperatures for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Where can I go fishing in the Medicine Bow Mountains lakes?
Many lakes in the region offer excellent fishing opportunities. Libby Lake is stocked with splake, cutthroat, and brown trout. Other notable fishing spots include Mirror Lake, Brooklyn Lake, Rob Roy Reservoir, Lake Owen, and Turpin Reservoir. Zimmerman Lake is also known for its native cutthroat trout.
Are there any lakes that allow motorized boats?
Yes, Rob Roy Reservoir, Lake Owen, and Turpin Reservoir are the only lakes in the Medicine Bow Mountains that feature cement boat ramps and permit the use of combustion motors, offering options for motorized watercraft activities.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around these lakes?
The lakes are nestled within the Medicine Bow Mountains, offering diverse natural features. You'll encounter alpine scenery, dense fir and spruce forests, and often views of prominent peaks like Medicine Bow Peak. Some areas, like Lake Marie, even feature waterfalls. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and, in certain spots like Barber Lake, butterflies and moths.
Are there hiking trails connecting multiple lakes?
Yes, the Lakes Trail is a prominent example, connecting Lake Marie and Mirror Lake and also passing by Lookout Lake. This trail also serves as a starting point for the Medicine Bow Peak Trail, allowing hikers to experience several alpine lakes within a single outing.
Most popular routes in the Medicine Bow Mountains
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Still not found your perfect lake in the Medicine Bow Mountains? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
