Shoshone Lake, located in Teton County, Wyoming within Yellowstone National Park, is the largest backcountry lake in the Lower 48 states, spanning approximately 8,050 acres at 7,795 feet elevation. This wilderness gem measures roughly 6 miles wide and 4 miles long at its widest points, offering paddlers an unparalleled backcountry experience with 136 miles of pristine shoreline to explore.

**Access:** The only water access is via Lewis Lake. Paddlers launch from the Lewis Lake boat ramp, cross approximately 3 miles of open water, then navigate the 3-mile Lewis River Channel connecting the two lakes. The channel requires portaging—approximately 1 mile of wading and pulling watercraft through shallow, rocky sections during lower water periods. Only non-motorized, hand-powered vessels are permitted on Shoshone Lake.

**Hazards:** Afternoon winds are notorious for creating dangerous conditions with waves reaching 3-5 feet, particularly along the exposed eastern shore. The lake's cold water (mid-30s°F in June, low 60s°F in August) poses severe hypothermia risk if capsized. Open-water crossings are extremely hazardous except at "The Narrows," a 1/3-mile-wide constriction at the lake's midpoint. Early morning departures are essential before winds develop around 10 a.m.

**Character:** Shoshone delivers profound wilderness solitude, with dense lodgepole pine forests framing the shoreline. The lake's crown jewel is the Shoshone Geyser Basin on the western shore, featuring over 80 geysers, hot springs, and mudpots accessible via a short trail—a rare opportunity to experience Yellowstone's thermal features without crowds.

**Wildlife:** Elk, moose, mule deer, bald eagles, ospreys, loons, and waterfowl inhabit the area. Grizzly and black bears frequent shorelines, particularly near tributary streams. Brook, brown, and lake trout provide fishing opportunities, though the lake was naturally fishless until stocking began in 1890. Approximately 20 designated backcountry campsites require advance permits through the park's lottery system.