Crater Lake Trail

To get here use exit 272 (Arlington) on I-80 and then proceed south on WY-13 for a quarter mile. Turn right on Elk Mountain Arlington Rd, from here on out the roads are unpaved.  After a mile turn left on Forest Rd 111, following signs for Medicine Bow National Forest.  Continue on Forest Rd 111 for 11 miles, then continue straight on Forest Rd 113, following signs for Crater Lake.  Follow this road for 1.5 miles and the trailhead will be on your left.  Most cars should have no problem with the first 11 miles of the road but when you reach road 113 there are a few more rocks to deal with. There are several pull-offs for parking if your car can not make it the last mile.

Once you reach the trailhead the trail is well marked, just follow signs for Crater Lake.  After a relatively flat first mile you reach a view point and have views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, this is where your decent to the lake begins.  While it's not far, it is steep so take your time and watch your footing.  Once you reach the lake you are free to explore, fish, and if its hot, go swimming! 

Near the lake there are a few campsites, so feel free to make this an overnight trip.  Don't forget that the way back is mostly uphill so plan your time accordingly.  This is a pretty remote part of the region so make sure to pack in (and out) everything you need. 

Pro tip: Read about an overnight backpacking trip in Medicine Bow National Forest.