The calm waters on Yellowstone Lake, coupled with a backdrop of the snowcapped Overlook and Sheridan Peaks, paint an unusual monochromatic view. Yellowstone Lake, at elevation 7,733 feet, claims to be North America's largest mountain lake. Lying just east of the continental divide, its waters drain toward the very distant Atlantic Ocean.
This 20 mile long body of water holds eleven native fish species, including the prized cutthroat trout. Although this area is known for its hot and steamy geysers and the lake resting on the caldera, the water temperatures remain very cold. The August surface temperature rarely climbs above 60 degrees. This is no place for swimmers, as these frigid waters can quickly lead to hypothermia.