About This Route
Shoshone Lake, Yellowstone's largest backcountry lake, demands expert skills for multi-day circumnavigations from the Lewis Channel inlet or Shoshone Geyser Basin trailhead (hike-in launch). Paddle 20+ miles around its irregular shoreline, camping at designated sites like North Northwest Arm. Geothermal features bubble shores; solitude reigns, but exposure tests endurance. Obtain backcountry permit; AIS clean craft only.
Safety Considerations
Extreme remoteness: no cell service, rescue hours away. Winds capsize open canoes; stick to early starts. 45F water mandates drysuits, per USCG cold-water protocols. Geyser burns scald; avoid hot springs. High grizzly density; cook 100 yards from tents, per NPS bear safety. Monitor weather via park app; lightning common. Overnight: hang food or use canisters.
Essential Gear
ul>li>Expedition drysuit (NRS Expedition)/li>li>Folding Greenland paddle (Lester Holt)/li>li>Tandem sea kayak with bulkheads/li>li>Satellite communicator (Garmin inReach Mini)/li>li>Bear fence and Ursack/li>li>Water filter (Katadyn Hiker Pro)/li>/ul>
Emergency Tips
p>Activate inReach SOS; build shelter with tarp. Conserve energy; ration dry gear. Navigate by compass to Ranger Cabin sites. Evacuate via trail if injured.