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CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway

As a branch of the federal government, the Bureau of Land Management is responsible for maintaining and preserving our public lands. The CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway is just one of the areas managed by the BLM. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps developed the original CCC ponds. The project was an effort to create jobs by Franklin Roosevelt. During the construction of the CCC Ponds, reforestation, road construction, beautification, and flood control projects were undertaken.

In the 1990s, the ponds were reconstructed, and each lake was given a theme. These themes include The Fish Pond, Beaver Pond, and Duck Pond. To enable public access, a walking path, benches, interpretive signs, a warming hut, and a parking lot were added during the reconstruction. A paved biking path called the Pinedale Pathway is attached to the parking lot and leads to town. The CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway offers hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. In the winter, you can take advantage of cross-country skiing on the groomed paths.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Pinedale Pathway

The trailhead of this pathway is attached to the CCC Ponds parking lot. It is a 3-mile long that is 6-8 feet wide, and paved with asphalt. It takes you all the way to the town of Pinedale. The trail is used for biking, walking, jogging, and rollerblading. It is plowed in the winter for easy access. Pets must be leashed at all times.

Length: 3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Half Moon Trail

Half Moon Trail is located along Half Moon Lake just to the east of CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway. This out and back trail has an elevation gain of 1,092 feet and is moderately trafficked. It is best used from March to October and is primarily used for hiking and camping. Dogs are allowed but must be leased at all times.

Length: 9.4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Meadow Lake Trail

Located on the east shore of Meadow Lake near the boat ramp and vault toilets, this trail is managed by the Forest Service and provides access to Timico Lake Trail and the Bridger Wilderness. The first 2.5 miles offer both motorized and motorized access, with the remailing being non-motorized only. The road leading to this trailhead can be rough at times.

Length: 3 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Fishing and Boating

There are many fishing opportunities in and around the CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway, where you will find a variety of trout species and kokanee salmon. Try your luck at Fremont Lake, Half Moon Lake, Willow Lake, or Boulder Lake. There are abundant small lakes that dot the landscape.

Wildlife Viewing

The CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway is a wetlands area that borders National Forest and wilderness land. You will see a large variety of duck species and a large array of other birds, including cranes. Muskrat and beaver are also common. You might even catch a glimpse of a moose, grey wolf, elk, or grizzly bear.

Picnicking

There are abundant opportunities for picking at the CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway, as picnic tables can be found at the campgrounds that surround the area. You can always bring some sandwiches and throw a blanket down and have a picnic anywhere you choose.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

While you will not find any Bureau of Land Management Campgrounds, there are several campgrounds and RV camping options. Freemont Lake Campground has over 40 sites. While there are no hookups available, you will find drinking water, vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. If you want a spot with more amenities, you can stay at Yellowstone Trail RV Park in Pinedale. This RV park has full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity. They have four pull-through sites with 140 feet of parking space and over 45 other sites.

Free Camping

The closest Bureau of Land Management free camping site is North Boulder Lake Campground, located approximately 19 miles to the southeast of CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway. There are five first-come, first-served camping sites here. There is a double vault toilet, and each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. To find other BLM camping spots along your route, search for BLM camping near me.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your CCC Ponds/Pinedale Pathway BLM trip

This area is relatively close to places where you can stock up on items and find a bite to eat. However, if you plan on taking a backpacking trip into the Bridger Wilderness that is nearby, make sure you let someone know where you are going and when they should expect to hear from you again. Make sure you pack all of your gear and get the required license if you plan on fishing in one of the many lakes scattered throughout the area. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When visiting BLM lands, do your part to preserve the area for future generations by following the seven Leave No Trace principles. These principles are a framework of minimal impact practices for those visiting outdoor areas, not just BLM lands. They include: • Camping on durable surfaces (preferably those that have been used before) • Planning for your visit ahead of time and being prepared • Cleaning up after yourself and packing out what you pack in (If you see trash, pick it up.) • Respecting the wildlife and keeping your dog under control at all times • Leaving artifacts where you find them • Minimizing the impact of your campfires • Being considerate and respectful of others visiting the area