img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}The chance to visit over 1000 alpine lakes sounds like you’d have to jet off to Finland or Switzerland to reach such a place exuding nature’s majesty, but it turns out you don’t have to venture far off at all.
Wyoming may be known for desolate roads, cowboy culture, stunning National Parks, and one of America’s trendiest mountain towns (Jackson Hole), but what it’s not quite as known for are translucent lakes somehow slipping through the cracks of travelers’ itineraries.
Seemingly boundless nature awaits in a charming hideaway straight out of a classic Western that guidebooks have overlooked.
There’s no doubt travelers will flock to Jackson Hole to enjoy cooler weather, fall magic, and fewer crowds, but this popular getaway’s high prices stick around past what most would expect to be their expiration date at summer’s end.
Home to a pint-sized rustic drag, more affordable stays, and 1,300 lakes surrounding the town, nearby map-dot Pinedale is the perfect alternative to enjoy equally stunning nature and wallet-friendly costs this fall.
“This Town Ain’t Big Enough For The Both Of Us!” — Actually, It Is….
The little-known town of Pinedale sits high in an alpine valley surrounded by a trio of mountain ranges.
Considered part of Greater Yellowstone’s ecosystem, you can imagine the next-level beauty here without having to navigate unavoidable groups of tourists.
You can enjoy an array of outdoor recreations from fishing, horseback riding, hiking, rucking, and rock-climbing.
If you thought the “Wild West” was a bygone era, then consider Pinedale a unicorn since old traditions and lifestyles are still highly valued here.
If you squint hard enough, you can still see remnants of history from the Rocky Mountain Fur Trade era that gave this town its start (though officially established in 1904).
A great example would be the Green River Drift, America’s oldest and longest cattle drive that puts Fort Worth’s Stockyards to shame every June and October.
But you don’t have to wear your glossiest pearl snaps or finest pair of Wranglers to fit in around these parts.
With Jackson Hole so close by (90 minutes away), Pinedale locals will be happy to show off their beloved hometown with an old-fashioned welcome before everyone’s eyes were glued to their phones.
Whether you’re here for your love of horses, the great outdoors, or simply seeking peace and quiet away from the city grind, Pinedale ticks off every box and more.
Welcome To Wyoming’s ‘Land Of Lakes‘
According to Visit Pinedale, their claim to fame is being known as Wyoming’s ‘Land of Lakes’. How could it not be surrounded by an unfathomable 1,300 different alpine lakes to choose from?
While I’m not paid enough to deep dive into all 1,300 options for you folks, nor is it likely your attention span could handle that, since we’ve all grown accustomed to quick-hitting TikToks, there are a few lakes that clearly stand out among the rest.
Circling back to Pinedale’s trio of mountain ranges, it’s the Bridger Wilderness Area’s Wind River Range that boasts over 1000 alpine lakes gleaming with vibrancy and inviting you for a plethora of activities — not to mention the curtain of forestry glowing with fall colors.
Pinedale doesn’t require much, but a sense of adventure isn’t optional. Some lakes are only accessible by hiking, and some are more rewarding with waterfalls in the Cirque of the Towers.
Remember — the outskirts of town is the textbook definition of “wild”.
Fremont Lake is among the most accessible. Located just 5 miles outside of Pinedale, it has a designated swimming area and sandy shores for laying out (but fall is a bit nippy).
Green River Lakes is more of a trek and fits the mold as a true road trip destination about 50 miles from town.Half Moon Lake is an outdoorsman’s dream with well-stocked waters of brown, rainbow, and lake trout and serene swimming areas at the foothills of the Wind River mountains, roughly 11 miles from Pinedale.
Travel Tip: Trails are most navigable July – September. Snow is typically absent from July – October.
Stay A While: Pinedale Beats Jackson Hole Rates Any Day
Being a hidden gem, you can book a stay all 4 seasons in Pinedale. In fact, they embrace their seasons for what they are.
For example, spring is for scenic hikes with unmatched views, summer is for swimming, fall is for cozy campfires and horseback rides, and winter is where the real adventure begins with thrilling excursions like snowmobiling and mushing.
Most notably, any season is affordable here. That can’t always be said for Jackson Hole. Accommodations can be booked for a fraction of the price as Jackson Hole has become a luxury escape, even for A-listers.
You don’t have to double-take receipts for a morning cup of coffee, a down-home meal at Wrangler Cafe, or a spacious suite at the rustic Pinedale Hotel & Suites with nightly rates under $100 in the heart of fall.
Sam SearsSam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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