Tucked high in the Big Horn Mountains along the scenic Cloud Peak Skyway (U.S. Hwy 16), Meadowlark Lake is one of Wyoming’s most beautiful and accessible alpine escapes. Surrounded by pine forests, granite peaks, and clear mountain air, this serene lake offers a refreshing retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
A Perfect Day Trip or Weekend Getaway
Located about 45 minutes from both Ten Sleep and Buffalo, Meadowlark Lake sits at nearly 8,200 feet elevation and offers year-round recreation. In the summer, it’s a hub for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnicking. Anglers will find the lake stocked with rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout—perfect for fly fishing or casting from shore.
If you’re into hiking, trails radiate from the area, leading into the Cloud Peak Wilderness, alpine meadows, and scenic overlooks. Wildlife watchers can often spot deer, marmots, moose, and soaring eagles.
Stay and Play
The area offers several camping options, including the Meadowlark Lake Campground, with sites nestled in the forest near the water’s edge. For those looking for more comfort, Meadowlark Lake Lodge provides cozy cabins, hot meals, and gear rentals. It’s also a great place to grab a burger or warm up with a cup of coffee after a day outdoors.
In winter, Meadowlark transforms into a snowy paradise for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and downhill skiing at the nearby Meadowlark Ski Lodge—making it a true four-season destination.
Tips for Your Visit
- Altitude awareness: At over 8,000 feet, the air is thinner. Stay hydrated and pace yourself, especially on hikes.
- Layer up: Even summer days can be cool, and mountain weather changes quickly.
- Pack it in, pack it out: Help keep this pristine place beautiful by leaving no trace.
- Bring binoculars: The wildlife and mountain views are worth a closer look.
Why You’ll Love It
What makes Meadowlark Lake special isn’t just the natural beauty—it’s the peaceful atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can take a deep breath, listen to the wind in the trees, and feel the weight of everyday life melt away.
So whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, a day on the water, or a snowy winter escape, Meadowlark Lake is a must-visit destination in the Big Horn Basin.
Come for the view, stay for the peace—and let Meadowlark Lake remind you why Wyoming is truly wild and wonderful.
Big Horn Basin Explorer 
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