Convict Lake

About

Revered by the local Paiute tribe as a safe haven for the magical fish, Convict Lake got its current name from a decidedly less pleasant event in the 19th century. In 1871, a group of convicts were cornered by a local posse at the lake after escaping from Carson City, Nevada. In the ensuing shootout, two of the posse members were killed. One, Benton merchant Robert Morrison had the highest peak above the lake named in his honor, and the lake was renamed after the incident. Today, the only thing being caught at the lake are huge trout and amazing alpine photographs. Even if you’re not an angler or photographer, the stunning views from the trail around the lake are sure to catch your attention.