What You'll Find at New Fork Lakes

New Fork Lakes is a pair of high-altitude reservoirs in the Wind River Range, roughly 40 miles northeast of Pinedale. The upper lake sits at about 10,400 feet; the lower lake is slightly lower. Both hold cutthroat trout and lake trout, with cutthroat being the primary draw for most anglers. The water is cold and clear, and the setting is alpine tundra — expect wind, afternoon thunderstorms, and weather that changes fast.

Access is by foot or horseback only. There is no road to the lakes themselves. The trailhead is at New Fork Lake Trail, which starts from the Scab Creek drainage on the west side of the range. The hike is roughly 8 to 10 miles one way, depending on which lake you're targeting, and gains significant elevation. This is not a casual walk-in fishery.

The cutthroat here are native or naturalized stock, not hatchery fish. They respond to small flies and spinners, and the lake trout are deeper and larger but less numerous. Because of the remoteness and the effort required to reach them, these lakes see far less pressure than lower-elevation waters in the Pinedale area.

Key Takeaways

  • New Fork Lakes require an 8- to 10-mile hike with significant elevation gain; there is no vehicle access to the water.
  • Cutthroat trout are the main species, responding well to small dry flies and nymphs in summer months.
  • The lakes sit above 10,000 feet and are typically accessible only from mid-July through September due to snow.
  • A Wyoming fishing license is required, and you must follow current regulations for cutthroat possession limits.
  • Weather is severe and unpredictable; afternoon thunderstorms and wind are common, and temperatures drop sharply after sunset.

When to Fish New Fork Lakes

The fishing season at New Fork Lakes runs from mid-July through late September. Snow blocks the trail before July, and by October the weather becomes unreliable. Peak season is August and early September, when the water has warmed slightly and the trail is most stable.

Cutthroat bite best in the early morning and evening. Midday can be slow, especially on clear, sunny days. The lake trout are active throughout the day but require deeper presentations — trolling or jigging in the deepest basins. If you're targeting cutthroat, plan to fish the shallower margins and inlet areas where they feed on aquatic insects.

Afternoon thunderstorms are nearly may provide in July and August. They arrive quickly, bring lightning, and pass within an hour or two. Start your day early and plan to be off the water by mid-afternoon. The wind typically picks up in the afternoon as well, making fly casting difficult.

What Gear and Flies to Bring

A 4- to 5-weight fly rod is standard for cutthroat at this elevation. Bring a 6-weight as a backup if you plan to fish for lake trout or if the wind is strong. A floating line covers most situations; a sink-tip or intermediate line helps if you want to probe deeper for lake trout.

Effective dry flies include small Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Stimulators in sizes 14 to 18. Nymphs work even better — Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, and small Copper Johns in sizes 16 to 20. Bring spinners as well: small Panther Martins or Mepps in gold or silver work for both species. The cutthroat here are not selective, but they are small-fly feeders.

Pack a headlamp, rain jacket, and extra layers. The temperature at 10,400 feet can be 20 to 30 degrees colder than Pinedale. Bring a map and compass or GPS — the trail is marked but easy to lose in poor visibility. A water filter or purification tablets are essential; do not drink untreated water from the lakes or streams.

Getting There and Permits

The trailhead is accessed via Forest Road 134 from the Scab Creek area, west of Pinedale. The road is rough and may require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive, especially early in the season. Check with the Pinedale Ranger District before you go — road conditions change, and some years the road is not passable until late June.

You need a valid Wyoming fishing license. Nonresident licenses are sold online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or at sporting goods stores in Pinedale. A Conservation Stamp is also required. Check the current regulations for cutthroat possession limits; they vary by water and year.

The lakes are in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. There is no fee to fish, but camping is allowed only in designated areas. Dispersed camping is not permitted. If you plan to camp, arrive early enough to secure a site, or plan a day trip from Pinedale.

Species and Size Expectations

Cutthroat trout dominate the upper lake and are the reason most people make the hike. They average 8 to 12 inches, with occasional fish to 14 or 15 inches. They are not large, but they are numerous and willing. The lower lake also holds cutthroat but tends to be slightly more productive for larger fish.

Lake trout are present in both lakes but are deeper and less accessible to fly anglers. They average 12 to 16 inches and can reach 20 inches or more. They require trolling or jigging in the deepest water and are not a practical target unless you have a boat or are willing to fish from shore with spinning gear.

Both species are native or naturalized to these lakes and are part of the high-country ecosystem. Regulations may require catch-and-release for cutthroat or may allow limited harvest; check the current rules before you fish.

Challenges and What to Expect

The hike is the biggest barrier. Eight to ten miles with 2,000 feet of elevation gain is a full day's work, especially at altitude. Many anglers hike in one day, fish the next, and hike out the third. Overnight trips require a pack that carries food, water, and camping gear — plan for 40 to 50 pounds.

Weather is severe and changes without warning. Afternoon thunderstorms are nearly daily in July and August. Wind can make fly casting nearly impossible. Hypothermia is a real risk if you get wet and the temperature drops. Bring rain gear and extra layers, and do not stay on the water if lightning is nearby.

The cutthroat bite can be slow on bright, calm days. Early morning and evening are far more productive. If you arrive and the weather is poor, you may spend a day or two waiting for conditions to improve. Flexibility and patience are essential.

Alternatives if New Fork Lakes is Closed or Crowded

If the trail to New Fork Lakes is not yet open or if you want a lower-elevation option, the New Fork River itself offers cutthroat and some brook trout. It is accessible by vehicle and requires no backpacking. The river is smaller and the fish are smaller, but it is a solid alternative for a day trip from Pinedale.

Scab Creek, which drains the New Fork Lakes, also holds cutthroat and is accessible from the same trailhead area. The creek is smaller and the fish are smaller, but it requires less elevation gain and can be productive in early morning.

If you want high-altitude lakes with easier access, Fremont Lake and Half Moon Lake, both near Pinedale, offer cutthroat and lake trout with vehicle access and established campgrounds. They are lower in elevation and more crowded, but they do not require a backpacking trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a guide to fish New Fork Lakes?

No, but you do need a map, compass, and experience hiking at altitude. The trail is marked but not heavily maintained. If you are unfamiliar with backcountry navigation or high-altitude hiking, hiring a guide or going with someone experienced is a good idea. Local outfitters in Pinedale can arrange guided trips.

Can I fish New Fork Lakes in June?

The trail is usually blocked by snow until mid-July. The road to the trailhead may also be impassable. Call the Pinedale Ranger District to confirm conditions before you plan a June trip. Even if the road is open, the trail is likely to be muddy and snow-covered at higher elevations.

What is the daily cutthroat limit?

Limits vary by year and water. Check the current Wyoming Game and Fish Department regulations before you fish. Some waters have catch-and-release only; others allow harvest. The regulations are printed in the fishing guide and are available online.

Is there cell service at New Fork Lakes?

No. There is no cell service at the lakes or on most of the trail. Bring a map and compass, and tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. A personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator is a good idea for backcountry trips.

Can I bring a boat or float tube?

An inflatable float tube or small raft can be packed in, but the weight and bulk make it impractical for most anglers. The lakes are small enough that shore fishing is productive. If you do bring a boat, pack it carefully and be prepared for a heavy load on the hike out.