Lake James TrailTo Windy Gap
To Lake James
Trailhead LocationNOTE: Due to the closure of the SR165/Fairfax Bridge outside of the park, there is no public access to Carbon River & Mowich Lake from SR165. This trail can still be reached with long-distance hiking via the Wonderland Trail inside the park. Trail DescriptionLake James was named by The Mountaineers in 1912 as a tribute to Park Ranger Thomas O'Farrell whose son was named James. Hike the Carbon River Trail (former road) five miles to Ipsut Creek Campground, take the spur trail past the campground to the Wonerland Trail, then follow the Wonderland Trail two miles to the Northern Loop Trail junction. Cross the Carbon River on a log bridge and turn left at another junction on the far side of the river. The trail soon begins a steep climb up numerous switchbacks through open, dry forest until finally reaching the subalpine meadows at Yellowstone Cliffs. From here the trail climbs for an additional one mile before it enters the beautiful, boulder-strewn meadows of Windy Gap. Beyond the gap, the route descends 1.5 miles to Lake James and the forest below. Along the TrailMountain goats frequent the Tyee Peak and Crescent Mountain areas near Windy Gap. Binoculars are recommended. Approximately one mile west of Windy Gap, follow a short spur trail to a rock arch formation called Natural Bridge. This spur is not a maintained trail. BackpackingThere are trailside camps at Yellowstone Cliffs, located 10.8 miles from the entrance, and at Lake James Ranger Cabin, 13.5 miles from the entrance. Permits are required for camping. Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers.Trail Regulations
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Last updated: June 11, 2025