Your Best Summer Experience in Wyoming Isn’t by Car, It’s on This Canoe Trail

One of the many things I love about Wyoming is the countless outdoor activities you can enjoy around the state. From its campgrounds and hiking trails to its rivers and lakes, there are many places to explore that are perfect for a summer adventure. While I’d recommend many of these destinations for a day outdoors, I’ve recently discovered that your best summer experience isn’t by car, on a hike, or even in a campground—it’s paddling along the Green River Lakes Canoe Trail.

I love a summer day on the water or a hiking trail, and you can have the best of both worlds on this nearly 9-mile canoe trail in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. You can spend your summer day paddling and admiring some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Cowboy State.

The Green River Lakes Canoe Trail is located near Dubois, and you will hop in the water at the Green River Lake Campground. You’ll paddle across the Lower Green River Lake to a small water trail that will lead you to Upper Green River Lake. You can then paddle around this lake or turn back to your put-in spot. However, be aware that there can be a pretty strong current in the stretch of water between lakes, so be mindful if you plan to paddle all the way. If the water is shallow enough, you may be able to hop out and pull your kayak through the stronger currents.

However, it doesn’t matter how far you actually paddle as you’ll experience breathtaking views your entire way. And no matter how busy the campground may seem when you begin your journey, you can easily spread out from others, finding the peace and quiet that you desire.

I particularly love the views of Squaretop Mountain. This uniquely shaped mountain is approximately 11,600 feet tall, and whether up close or far away, it immediately captures your attention and fills you with a sense of appreciation for all that Mother Nature has created in this small corner of the world.

At a leisurely pace, this canoe trail will take several hours to complete. In fact, many individuals will pack their canoes or kayaks with overnight equipment and camp at the end of the trail before turning around and heading back home. If you have the time, I recommend fishing along your way, slowing down and admiring wildlife, and simply enjoying nature's soundtrack.

If you don’t want to complete the entire Green River Canoe Trail but still want to visit both lakes, you can always explore on land. The Lower Green River Lakeside Trail is just one option that is approximately 6 miles long, has 500 feet in elevation gain, and begins near the Green River Lakes Campground. This trail takes you along the Lower Green River Lake shore and is a great option if you don't want to paddle for so long.

There are many ways to enjoy the beauty of Wyoming’s great outdoors, but for a summer experience you won’t forget, the Green River Lakes Canoe Trail may just be one of the best. Prepare yourself for a gorgeous adventure. And if you are looking for another hike in the area that will mesmerize and impress, check out the Diamond Lake Trail. It’s a remote, scenic, and challenging journey.