There hardly could be a better name for a lake than "Solitude." The word suggests the peaceful nature that only a tranquil, isolated body of water could provide. The trouble is that "Solitude" is too good of name, making it overly popular. So the first bit of advice about the Lake Solitude and Misty Moon Loop Trail in north-central Wyoming is to not confuse it with the Lake Solitude in Grand Teton National Park in the western part of the state. The next suggestion is to understand that this 16.9-mile hike with a 2,479-foot gain in elevation is a significant undertaking. That's in contrast with some sites in the Intermountain area where water features are found practically next to the parking lot. Yet hikers almost universally say the trek is worthwhile.
Lily pads dot the water of Lake Solitude, which stunningly comes into view after seven miles of hiking along the 16.9-mile trail that loops around Misty Moon Lake.
The trail stands out amid the rugged landscape of the Bighorn National Forest area.
Pine trees provide part of the backdrop of Lake Solitude, adding to the natural setting.
One approach to this trail is to turn around after reaching Lake Solitude, but there's plenty of incentive to continue to Misty Moon Lake.
Misty Moon Lake takes on different appearances at various times of the day, and the reflections create a spectacular look.
The rocks of copper and other colors and shades frame the water.
The Lake Solitude and Misty Moon Loop begins and ends near the town of Hyattsville, located just west of the Bighorn National Forest, about 40 miles from Worland. Hikers say the 16.9-mile adventure can be done in one day with an early start, but most suggest an overnight camping stay along the way. You can learn more about the trail, plus download a hiking map, from AllTrails.com.
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