The Most Snake Infested Lakes in Wyoming
In Wyoming, there are over 4,000 lakes that offer many fun activities, from kayaking and canoeing to swimming and water sports. Each lake also provides a unique, beautiful, and picturesque view. However, as with any large body of water, they also attract various wildlife, including all kinds of snakes.
Lakes have much to offer these cold-blooded reptiles, such as a moisture-rich environment, shelter, and abundant food sources. Many of the lakes in Wyoming are home to a diverse species of snakes. Discover some of the most snake-infested lakes you might want to avoid, or at least be vigilant about local slithery friends and venomous species.
Jackson Lake
Known to be the lake with one of the highest altitudes in the United States, at 6,772 feet, Jackson Lake spans over 25,540 acres and is home to a wide range of wildlife. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, this lake offers fun activities such as camping, boating, and hiking.
You will not only find moose, black bears, and ospreys hanging around this lake but also at least three types of snakes. However, many more species have been seen around this lake, but they don鈥檛 call it home often.
The Wandering Garter Snake (Thamnophis elegans vagrans) snake is likely the most commonly found species in Jackson Lake because its food sources are predominantly amphibians, small fish, and small mammals, easily found around the lake. Another common snake species you might encounter is the Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer sayi). This species is often mistaken for a rattlesnake but is actually a non-venomous constrictor that mainly eats birds and other small mammals.
There is also the harmless Western Racer (Coluber constrictor), which may make an appearance during your visit. Since its diet primarily consists of frogs, toads, small lizards, and even other snakes, it is always on the prowl for its next meal. Also, since it's well known for its speed and agility, the Racer may require you not to blink if you plan on trying to find one out in the wild.
Yellowstone Lake
Arguably one of the most memorable and beautiful lakes in Wyoming, Yellowstone Lake is the heart and lifeblood of the infamous Yellowstone Park. This lake offers opportunities for visitors to kayak, paddleboard, or boat around the lake and experience viewing the park鈥檚 rich and diverse wildlife.
This lake's ecosystem includes majestic bison and elk, grizzly bears, herons, and swans. Since wolves were reintroduced in 1995, the possibility of seeing them has also increased. Snakes are also commonly found among the many animals in Yellowstone Lake.
While out on the lake, you should distance yourself from any Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) you come across. Described to have a rattle, diamond-shaped head, and blunt nose, this species of rattler is highly venomous. It often uses the lake as its hunting ground to catch small mammals, birds, and prairie dogs that make their way to the lake as a water source.
The Plains Garter snake (Thamnophis radix) is another very common species found around the lake. It is only mildly venomous and is considered non-toxic to humans. This species is well known for its unique yellow or orange stripe stretching from its head to its tail.
Visitors might also want to look out for the non-venomous Rubber Boa (Charina bottae) snake. Aptly named the Rubber Boa, it is a constrictor snake species known for its rubbery skin. It is often found hunting along the lake for amphibians and other small mammals, so it is unlikely to try to bite you.
Fremont Lake
At 12 miles in length, Fremont Lake is listed as the second-largest naturally formed lake in Wyoming. This lake features crystal-clear water and mountain views, the perfect combination for those searching for the beauty of nature. There are many things outdoor lovers can do around this lake; however, the most popular activity is a guided tour where visitors can explore hidden coves.
Fremont Lake has no shortage of deer, eagles, ducks, foxes, and beavers, which can all be found as you explore. You may also find yourself surrounded by common snake species as well. The Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is one of them. It shares characteristics similar to those of Wandering Garter Snake in terms of diet and appearance. This species can grow up to 26 inches in length and, while testy at times, is a non-venomous species.
When traversing around the lake, you may also encounter a Western Hognose snake (Heterodon nasicus) with its identifiable upturned snout. These little snakes are more likely to play dead than try to bite, as they only feed on animals smaller than themselves, such as frogs or small mammals.
Likewise, if you see a snake with a yellow ring around its neck, it is a Ring-Necked snake (Diadophis punctatus). This species is harmless unless you are a salamander or insect. While primarily nocturnal, this snake species can sometimes be seen at dusk.
Jenny Lake
Jenny Lake offers pulse-pumping cliff jumping, picnic areas, kayaking, and more. This lake is found in Grand Teton National Park and offers its visitors clear waters, outdoor activities, and a wide variety of wildlife. Jenny Lake spans 1,911 acres and is cradled by mountains.
You can expect to find beautiful songbirds, falcons, black bears, moose, and ravens along the way as you explore. You will likely also come across a few of its slithering residents, such as the Smooth Green snake, the Northern Water snake, and the wandering Garter Snake.
The Smooth Green snake (Opheodrys vernalis) is an insect-eater with bright green scales. Jenny Lake's moist environment makes it an ideal hunting ground for this species, which is extremely small compared to the other species of snakes found along the lake.
While on the lake, you may find the Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon) swimming alongside your water vessel. These snakes are non-venomous and exclusively feed on frogs and fish. However, they are highly aggressive when threatened and should be left alone if encountered.
Found near almost any body of water or wet environment, including this lake, is the Plains Garter snake (Thamnophis radix). This snake鈥檚 main diet consists of amphibians and smaller mammals. This common species can reach up to 15 to 28 inches long. Its bite is considered not toxic to humans, although it is still listed as mildly venomous to animals.
Leigh Lake
Crystal waters, surrounded by nature, towering mountains, and a diverse ecosystem, Leigh Lake lacks nothing when it comes to exciting outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes. The lake covers 1,792 acres and is most revered for having the best hiking trails.
Near the lake, you may witness bald eagles hunting, bison and moose grazing, and grizzly or black bears wandering the shoreline. As far as snakes go, you should watch for the Wandering Garter snake (Thamnophis elegans), a subspecies of the common garter snake (Thamnophis). They often use the rocks around the lake to bask in the sun and the lake itself as a hunting ground.
Another snake to look out for is the Rubber Boa (Charina bottae). This snake species is elusive and one of the most docile species out there, so there is little to be concerned about as they are non-venomous.
Wyoming should be the number one destination for travelers who love camping, boating, and getting knee-deep in nature. It is home to multiple ecosystems and lakes with the most diverse range of mammals and reptiles, making it a wildlife spotters' dream travel destination. Just be on the lookout for the Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis), one of only two species of venomous snakes in the state, so you can enjoy these lakes to the fullest.
