The Small Town Lake In Nevada That’s An Idyllic Summer Day Trip

When it feels like time to escape - from the heat, from the city, from it all - the only question is where to go. Nevada has many lakes, rivers, state and national parks, and scenic drives that allow you to enjoy the Silver State’s natural beauty. Many people head somewhere they already know, perhaps to one of our more popular recreation areas, but if you really want to get away from it all, head to this small town lake near Wells, Nevada, where you can enjoy a blissful day of relaxing activities and crisp alpine air.

Angel Lake is a hidden mountain oasis just a few miles outside of downtown Wells, one of Nevada’s underrated small towns. The lake is accessible via the Angel Lake Scenic Byway, a short but incredibly beautiful 12-mile drive with gentle switchbacks and lovely vistas.

Nestled up in the East Humboldt mountain range, this is the only alpine cirque lake in the area that you can reach by a paved road.

Angel Lake is a glacial tarn, fed by a stream, rainfall, and snow melt. At an elevation of 8,400 feet, even in late spring and early summer, this pristine blue lake is often surrounded by snow packed along the layers of granite that surround it.

The elevation and snowpack make for stunning waterfalls as the snow melts on the higher peaks.

There is a campground near the lake and a day-use picnic area along the shore. Spend the day, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and enjoying the views.

The lake also offers great fishing opportunities. The lake is stocked for fishing and you can expect to catch some beautiful rainbow and brook trout.

If you love hiking, there are trails around the lake and into nearby areas. The 4.75-mile roundtrip Greys Lake Trail leads from the campground entrance to a hidden alpine lake. Along the trails, you are likely to see many wildflowers and quite possibly some wildlife.

The lake is home to a variety of birds and animals such as mountain goats, deer, and bighorn sheep.

This is no ordinary “day at the lake” and I can’t imagine a better mini-getaway this summer! Have you ever been to Angel Lake? We would love to hear what you think in the comments. Want more inspiration? Check out our best day trip ideas here.