Moon Lake Road (Forest Road 175)
Alpine mining road to pristine cirque lake
Moon Lake Road climbs through dense lodgepole pine forests in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, crossing Moose Creek three times before reaching the alpine cirque holding Moon Lake at 8,400 feet. The route follows old mining tracks from the 1920s silver boom, with remnants of the abandoned Moose Creek Mine visible at mile marker 6, where rusted machinery still sits frozen in time among the aspens.
This moderate trail demands high-clearance 4WD for the rocky creek crossings and loose shale sections above treeline. Best tackled June through September when snow clears, though early season means muddy conditions and swollen creek crossings. No permits required, but fuel up in Soda Springs—nearest services are 45 miles away. Dispersed camping available at several meadow clearings, and the payoff is crystal-clear lake fishing for brook trout with jagged peaks reflecting off the water.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8400 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Soda Springs, Idaho |
| Land manager | Caribou-Targhee National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Moon Lake Road?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with decent tires can make it, but the rocky ledges and creek crossings will test your approach angles. Take your time on the final 3 miles where it gets technical.
Is Moon Lake Road accessible in May or October?
No, snow typically blocks the upper sections until mid-June and returns by early October. The road is only reliably passable June through September.
Do I need any permits to drive to Moon Lake?
No permits required for day use or dispersed camping. It's all Caribou-Targhee National Forest land with standard forest service rules.
What's the hardest part of the trail?
The final 2-3 miles feature steep rocky ledges and loose talus that require careful tire placement and momentum control. The approach to the lake basin is the most technical section.
Are the water crossings deep enough to worry about?
The creek crossings are typically shallow (6-12 inches) but can be slippery with loose rocks underneath. They're more about traction than depth, but check conditions after heavy rains.