For more information please visit The State of Wyoming's website. (1), Comments With little elevation change compared to most hikes in the Wind River Range, the Dickson Park to Middle Lake Hike is a perfect intermediate adventure. Credit /u/chucksutherland for our awesome banner. Its the ideal pack for a high-altitude trek through the Wind River Range. All of which means that Wind River Range backpacking is a must-do for anyone serious about getting outside. We ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity. In 1884, Emile Granier, a French mining engineer, established a hydraulic mining operation that allowed gold mining to continue. The only major areas I had to bypass are (from South to North) the Deep Creek Lakes and Ice Lakes, Smith Creek Lakes and Cathedral Lake, Bonneville Basin, Bald Mountain Basin and Cook Lakes, the Peak Lake Area (as described by Kelsey), and the Eastern drainages north of Gannet Peak, which are pretty much impassable due to rough terrain and massive glaciers. You can find her on Instagram at @aka_dmoney. This would add about. Cirque of the Towers Wind River Range #78372 Purchase. From Big Sandy Lake, switchback north on the well-worn trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles. This we know. Allrightsreserved. Additionally, from 1962 through 1983, a U.S. Steel iron ore mine operated in Atlantic City, and the company's Atlantic City Mine Railroad crossed South Pass. The town of Pinedale is the gateway into many of the Wind River trailheads. Daniell is a freelance writer based out of Fort Collins, Colorado. When approaching from Temple Pass, avoid descending to Lake 10,839 by a messy traverse." The East face of Mt. This hike primary trail can be used both directions and has a hard overall physical rating. The Jean Lakes are a long day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline Trail. If you're not comfortable traversing the Mammoth Glacier described in Pallister's book, an alternate route is to go over Knapsack Col and down to Peak Lake, over Cube Rock Pass, and join the Highline Trail near Trail Creek Park. _Bonneville Basin can be reached by two different ways. He wrote, "it may be assumed to be about half-way between the Mississippi and the Pacific ocean, on the common traveling routethe emigrant road to Oregon. Highlights: 48 summits higher than 12,500 feet, Gannett Peak-Wyoming's highest, 7 of the largest glaciers in the Rocky Mountains, 2,900 lakes and ponds, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, many campgrounds and trailhead access points. From Grave Lake by taking the Hailey Pass trail west to Pyramid Lake, then off-trail north up the East Fork Valley. Welcome to /r/wyoming! A dazzling Wind River Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell. The trail cuts away from Seneca Lake and drops way, way down. In fact, my most epic day hike in the Wind River Range was on my birthday one year. AREA MAPS: Beartooth Publishing North Wind River Range. We caught our first on a day hike last summer. From Windy Lake Basin, make your way east to the top of the plateau, as described in Nancy Palister's book "Beyond Trails." In his free time, Tyler can be found searching Portland for the next great food establishment or perusing the many bookshelves of Powell's. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. In 2013, Alan Dixon and Don Wilson envisioned the " Wind River High Route ," a cross-country trek traversing the range and connecting all three of those areas, as well as less-famous, equally striking scenery in between. By 1848, 18,487 Americans had crossed the pass, and over 300,000 by 1860. Pick up all dog waste as well as any human trash. _The Peak Lake Area. To go to Lower Silas Lake, stay left and continue straight and down the trail toward Lower Silas Lake, which you should be able to see. No matter what you plan to do while in Missoula, these Airbnbs can complete the puzzle for a perfect escape. The Wind River High Route was pioneered by Andrew Skurka and Buzz Burrell in the late 2000s. Though well known to Native Americans, South Pass was first traversed in 1812 by European American explorers who were seeking a safer way to return from the West Coast than they had taken to it. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. Traditionally Indigenous Territory Apsaalook (Crow) Eastern Shoshone Cheyenne More Stats for Smith Lake hike trail trail Altitude change 607 ft Altitude min 9,292 ft The range is home to many of the state's highest mountains including Fremont Peak at 13,745 and Wind River Peak at 13,192 feet. Plus, the camping at Seneca Lake is some of the best camping in the Wind River Range, not to mention its world-class alpine fly fishing, too. I'm sure someone over here is familiar with Wind River Range hikes and could point me in the right direction. Hiking plays a part in just about everything I do. Additional Read: 11 Amazing Wyoming Cabin Rentals To Warm Your Soul. The Sweetwater River flows past the east side of the pass, and Pacific Creek rises on the west side. "Follow your dreams, You can reach your goals, I'm living proof! Mileage: 12 miles RT Cabin Rentals Areas. Why you should go: Start at 10,000 feet and explore Rainbow Lake on this easy-going trail. . Setting out from the Smith Lake Trailhead, the Dickson Park to Middle Lake Hike crosses a bridge over an . The connecting trail that completes the loop on the backside, near Texas Pass, is unmarked as an official trail, despite being well-trod for years, so navigating can occasionally become a bit tricky. Utah may be a giant desert, but it's still got plenty of waterfalls for adventurous hikers to chase. In AdventureAlan's trip report of his long-distance Wind River Trip (linked below), he advises not to camp at the upper part of the basin containing Long Lake (the particular lake is Lake 10,555) due to poor campsites and unpleasant-tasting water. Cirque of the Towers, Green River Lakes . The Wind Rivers humbly hide 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, including Wyoming's tallest mountain Gannett Peak. The first recorded crossing was made on 22 Oct. 1812 by Robert Stuart, and six companions from the Pacific Fur Company of John Jacob Astor. If youre planning a Wind River Range backpacking trip at altitude, consider how hard youre trying to push yourself, and make sure you know how to tell if youre dehydrated or suffering from mild altitude sickness. Although it gets spotty between Deep Lake and Clear Lake, you can't really get lost; just head north down the granite slabs to the east end of Clear Lake. Anglers: There are golden trout in Thumb Lake. Drainages are intricate and minor obstacles abound, but by paying attention and consulting a map you can get where you're going without difficulty." It lies in a broad high region, 35 miles (56 km) wide, between the nearly 14,000 ft (4,300 m) Wind River Range to the north and the over 8,500 ft (2,600 m) Oregon Buttes [3] and arid, saline near-impassible Great Divide Basin to the south. Desolation Lake (Lake 11478 on maps) at the head of the basin is said to be spectacular. If you find yourself off-trail with a group, everyone should spread out while walking. Looks like a cool hike though! From this saddle, both East Temple and Temple Peaks are worthwhile side trips. East Temple Peak is a class 2 stroll directly northeast from Temple Pass. All are spread over three wilderness areas. Only the off-trail option is doable as a day hike (shown on a map in Pallister's book). Approaching a construction zone 20 minutes outside Pinedale, Wyoming a flagger stands between us, rotating his sign to "stop." All Rights Reserved. Overall, pack more water than you think youll need, and take frequent breaks to prevent exhaustion and advanced altitude sickness. We've spent the last week exploring the Wind River Range around Pinedale, WY. That said, its also extremely important to be aware of your surroundings and to follow bear bag or canister protocols at all backcountry camping destinations. The region is considered to be one of the prime fishing destinations in the lower 48. ), But I digress. We started at the St Lawerence ranger station and made our way to Twin Lakes for the first night. It is fine country to wander through. A river, that appears to drop into an unseen . And even during my couple trips to those areas, it seemed absolutely deserted compared to my local trails in Colorado. Call State Park Amenities Amenities at Lake Smith include: Boat Access Fishing Jetty Accessible Pier Picnic Area Beach Trails Accessible Facilities The rest of the route is described in Nancy Palister's book, called the Goat-friendly High Route. Prepare for your next adventure by downloading maps. According to Joe Kelsey, "Above treeline, while the Forest Service doesn't maintain the trail shown on the Temple Peak quad, you shouldn't have trouble switchbacking to Temple Pass, the 11,480-foot saddle between Temple and East Temple Peaks.". Some of our favorite day hikes are: Stough Creek Basin, Smith, Middle and Cathedral Lakes, Island and Thumb lakes in Silas Canyon, Lake Louise, and anything on the Middle Fork Trail, which starts at Bruce's Bridge at the end of Sinks Canyon, and takes us all the way to Wind River Peak. Earthwalk Press North Wind River Range. The Pass lies in southwestern Fremont County, approximately 35 miles (56 km) SSW of Lander . The foreground streaks in from the right front of the canvas, a rocky outcropping with trees, some fallen, and verdant grasses invite the viewer into the painting to take a moment before looking out over the edge of the cliff into the vast wilderness. After Diane and I visited the Wind Rivers for the Great American Eclipse in 2017 we decided that we should try to return every other summer to visit somewhere new in the range. As far as camping, it sounds like you could potentially camp anywhere along this section. Given the easy elevation gain and well maintained trail, this is a great choice for families. These walls certainly contain some of the most demanding rock climbs in the lower 48 states. Lander, WY 82520. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead However, it was not until 1867, when an ore sample was transported to Salt Lake City, that an influx of miners descended into the region. Seneca Lake is right at the beginning of some of the most spectacular high alpine climbing and backpacking routes. From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). Wind River Mountains Topographic Map - Northern Half by Beartooth Mapping. Follow the trail around the large base of Roaring Fork Mountain to arrive at Tayo Park. They live in Lander, WY, where they frequently hike in the foothills and mountains of the Wind River Range. If traveling lightly and in peak physical condition, it could be possible to do this route in a little over a week. It goes west across the expansive plateau of Osborne Mountain, then follows Mill Creek to the Osborne Cabin, on old homestead of a famous trapper. When it comes to Wind River Range backpacking routes, there are a few premier trails to choose from, each varying in length, difficulty and terrain. Continue climbing northeast, and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak (class 2). The Big Sandy Trailhead is the gateway to several popular backpacking trails, so you will pass more hikers here than in other areas. Continue north past the west side of Lake 11085 and weave your way through the multitude of lakes north and east of Mount Solitude. Take a left onto Fish Hatchery Road. Smith Lake is a 7 mile blue singletrack trail located near Popo Agie Wilderness Wyoming. The height of Mt. The lake can produce some stunning reflections. "[5]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the first military expedition to South Pass in 1845. Mosquitoes are treacherous here in the Winds during the warmer months. The Wind River Range is one of the best backpacking + climbing wildernesses in the lower 48. Wyeth then established Fort Hall on the Snake River and the Lees settled the Willamette Valley. To Roaring Fork Pass: 4.5 miles/9 miles round-trip. It is a beautiful lake! From the peak, descend west to the saddle, and northeast down the valley (cirque) to a group of lakes, one of which is Windy Lake. This article on Marfa camping is brought to you by OOFOS, whose womens footwear line is made with patented foam that enhances muscle recovery and, We recently asked our Facebook Campfire group for advice on camping with kids, and the responses flooded in with everything from let them help with, 2022 The Dyrt, Inc | All rights reserved, 4 Stunning Routes for Backpacking Through Wyomings Wind River Range, 6 Private Campgrounds to Book When Your Favorite National Parks are Full. Continue straight onto the Green River Lakes Road for 18.5 miles. Shelli Johnson, owner of Epic Life, is an entrepreneur, life and leadership coach, leadership development facilitator, keynote presenter, writer, adventurer and guide. This picture is property of http://jessiestrails.blogspot.com, Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Adventure Traverse (GREAT), Images By 1838, four additional American missionary women had crossed the pass, Myra Fairbanks Eells, Mary Richardson Walker, Mary Augusta Dix Gray and Sarah Gilbert White Smith. Great news: Dads Lake is a dog-friendly trail, just be sure to bring a leash along. About 500 of them are named, and most of them are fishable. Groups must stay under 15 people. I'm guessing it's called that for a good reason. Perhaps the most beautiful section of the Traverse is the Northern section, so you would ascend back to the divide (and the Traverse) via Tourist Creek (this off-trail route is described in detail by Pallister and Kelsey). The area between the lakes is blessed with many fine . In the mid-1990s, Lander nurse and outdoorsman Bruce Cartwright introduced my family to the fine high-lake fishing on the Wind River Indian Reservation, which accounts for about a quarter of the land in the Winds. Located in the southern section of the Wind River Range (or "Winds" for short), the cirque is a very popular destination for technical rock climbers. Check out more of our hiking guides featuring the most epic terrain in the Rocky Mountains: 14 Majestic Hikes in Glacier National Park, The 10 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, How to Spend One Day in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. I wouldn't bet on it, however. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. Burnt Lake - Low use 8. From Temple Pass, descend to the east shore of Temple Lake. Unless any of you are crazy enough to try it with me! Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts, https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/smith-lake-basin-in-wyomings-wind-river-range-is-a-hikers-haven. Mileage: 17 miles RT This trip was planned as a 10 day shuttle trip from Meadow Lake TH to Boulder lake TH on the west side of the Winds out of PInedale WY. Tyler Wildeck is a writer with a passion for all things outdoors. You then depart from the trail due northeast, following Blair Creek to the pond at 9590. You can find directions easily from guidebooks. Every off-trail route, mountain pass, and glacier traverse along this route is detailed in the fine guidebooks I've had the pleasure of studying. After guiding several trips through the Western Slope Desert, Daniell fell in love with climbing desert towers and overnight canoe trips down the Colorado River. When hiking in a group, you should always stay on the trail to avoid creating erosion. They thrive in cold water and are typically only . All in all, its a highly accessible backpackers dream. Nothing against Iowa, but I consider this one of the greatest gifts my parents have given me. Directions from Pinedale: From the intersection of Pine Street (US 191) and North Tyler Ave (the Pinedale Tourism office is located on the northeast corner) in Pinedale, WY, drive south on Highway 191 for 11.7 miles and then turn left (east) on WY . To Hike to Lake Louise: Its about 2.5 miles to Lake Louise, 5 miles roundtrip. From Hay Pass, drop south past the east of Dennis Lake, and past the west shores of Golden Lake, Lake Louise, and finally Upper Golden Lake. We started hiking at 3:30am, and hiked 16 miles to the top of Wind River Peak, the tallest peak in the southern Wind River Range, only to turn around and return. Visiting the Space Needle, exploring Pike Place Market, and touring the old underground city are staples on any Seattle trip, but youll need your hiking boots to discover the areas most majestic attractions. But what does that really mean? On day 2 we started out from Twin lakes and bushwacked our . Generally speaking, backpacking here is best done in the late summer or early fall, when temperatures are warmer and the better portion of the snow has melted from the high altitude terrain. The Wind River Range is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, moose, bald eagles, wolverines and grizzly bears, making it an incredible location for viewing rarely seen animals in their natural habitat. No permit is required to use the range and a range attendant will not be present. I feel that this is all the description needed to arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure too much. Big Sandy - High use 11. Beefcake!" Be sure to check area regulations prior to setting out, as campfires and campsites are restricted throughout the basin to help protect the wilderness area. In 3-pc 4wts, there are 7.5 and 8 footers. And fishing. Stretching over 100 miles along the Continental Divide, the Wind River Range in Wyoming is an oft-missed treasure trove for backcountry exploration. Dads Lake also has the benefit of being at a slightly lower elevation than some of the classic Wind River Range backpacking trails, so seasonality can be a bit easier to handle. The range is also home to some of North America's largest glaciers. The trail to the lake, if done in one day, is long and tiring with lots of ups and downs. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Wind River Range is Washakie Pass Loop to Cirque of the Towers, which has a 4.5 star rating from 31 reviews. Almost to the top of the tall mountain, Jerry remarked he wished I would have asked for expensive jewelry instead. Miller Lake Trail (#173) Pole Creek Trail (#119) DISTANCE: +/- 28.5 miles. Check the Map. Seven Nights in the Wind River Range: Visiting the Popo Agie Wilderness of the Shoshone National Forest, and Catching Cutthroat Trout and Brook Trout by the Score. Once on the trail, consider spending the first night at Hobbs Lake or Seneca Lake and progressing on to Island Lake for the second. The Wind River Range has endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last. Backpackers should also check snowpack levels in order to determine the best time to hit the trail without encountering too much snow. Climber Orrin Bonney gave the area its current name in 1941 after his survey of the cirque. I will be completing the entire route this summer (August 20-September 9, 2016), and will update this post when complete. Jedediah Smith's party, part of Ashley's Hundred, made the first crossing traveling east to west in Feb. 1824. View Wind River Range Traverse Image Gallery - 1 Images. Composed mostly of National Forest land and the Wind River Reservation, the Winds are protected by three quarters of a million acres of public lands. Should this affect the validity of this most grand route I have prepared? While the trip offers a number of different arrangements depending on how long you make it, the recommended path includes starting from the Elkhart Park Trailhead, which is located just a two-hour drive from Jackson. Brother Benny overlooking Harrower Peak and Indian Basin on our second day in the Wind Rivers. Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles (9,400 ft to 10,626 ft). For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports. [7][5]:5377[4]:158, In 1832 Captain Benjamin Bonneville, aided by Michel Cerre and Joseph R. Walker, blazed a wagon road across the pass. If conditions/weather is not safe, day hike into the Titcomb Lakes, and exit to the Green River Lakes via the Highline Trail. Dogs are allowed on National Forest trails as long as they are on leash. Visit, or enjoy even a single hike in Wind River Country and youll understand why its such a great gift to live here. Also, they don't necessarily share the same parent. From Cheyenne to Jackson, Evanston to Casper to Gillette and everywhere in between. When I was just 3 years old, my parents moved us from Iowa to Lander, Wyoming. Drop down from the pass and round the south shore of Bewmark Lake, and descend the west slopes from the lake, while staying well above the north shore of Middle Fork Lake. Some of our favorite day hikes are: Stough Creek Basin, Smith, Middle and Cathedral Lakes, Island and Thumb lakes in Silas Canyon, Lake Louise, and anything on the Middle Fork Trail, which starts at Bruces Bridge at the end of Sinks Canyon, and takes us all the way to Wind River Peak. Between the five of us we caught about 18 trout in an hour. (It takes about 45 minutes to drive from Lander, WY, up the switchbacks and to the Christina Lake Trailhead.). Fishing and backpacking are popular here, so bring your pack, tent, and fishing pole to make this a fun overnighter. From the northwest corner of Scott Lake, ascend northwest to "Smirnoff Pass" (unofficial name of the pass between Scott Lake and Lake 11085 to the north). Any resources that would help me complete that hike and have it as a resource on my phone would be appreciated! The archery range on Berlin Lake Wildlife Area is open sunrise-sunset, except during holidays, and is free-of-charge. Reaching the pass on 8 Aug. 1842, Fremont wrote, "The ascent had been so gradual, that, with all the intimate knowledge possessed by Carson, who had made the country his home for seventeen years, we were obliged to watch very closely to find the place at which we had reached the culminating point." The pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus. Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. Gold had been discovered in the gulches near the pass as early as 1842. Consult guidebooks on the safest way to ascend Indian Pass. Ashley subsequently established the first Rocky Mountain Rendezvous in 1825. Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly. Everest!! All Tours Tour Sale. An extra day is advised to explore the multitude of lakes around the Brown Cliffs here. (Joshua Bergan photo) Few mountain ranges in the world offer the outdoorsman as much as Wyoming's Wind River Range: Miles of trail to ride or backpack, glaciers to climb, some of the world's best granite for rock climbing. It was designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark on January 20, 1961. The ancient mountain range boasts the most extensive glacial network in the lower 48 states, featuring 130 glaciers and 1,300 pristine alpine lakes filled with trout. Wind River High Route Trailheads & Transportation Thru-hiking East side The most logical termini for a Wind River High Route thru-hike are on the range's east side: Bruce Bridge, 15 miles west of Lander, entirely on pavement Trail Lakes, 10 miles west of Dubois, mostly on gravel At both trailheads, you will find only a parking lot and an outhouse. The route follows closely to the Continental Divide through the Wind River Range and is largely off-trail; of the approximate 100 miles, 65+ miles are off-trail, depending on your measuring device. #WindRiverCountry, Wind River Visitors Council From the Upper Basin, about 1.5 miles past the north-most lake, ascend west to Knapsack Col. From the Col, travel west while staying above (north) of the Peak Lake drainage. From Wykee Lake, travel 1 mile (on-trail) west to the south shore of Sonnicant Lake. The strenuous Lizard Head Trail leaves the North Fork Trail in these meadows and climbs nearly 2000 feet to the bare upper slopes of Windy Mountain. Snow usually doesnt melt until mid-May and returns in October, so its a relatively short hiking season around here. Twelve lakes were within the Tayo, Deep, and Ice creek drainages in the Wind River Peak area, and one along the mainstem Middle Fork Popo Agie River. Why you should go: Explore one of the Winds most popular trails to reach Big Sandy Lake. I have taken backpacking trips to the Cirque of the Towers and Temple Lake area, as well as the Titcomb Basin area; however, I have not completed the WRRT yet. Trip Type: Out-and-back Wind River Backcountry Rock Location Wind River Range Season Summer - Fall Difficulty Moderate - Hard Duration 5 - 7 Days 1 2 Overview Jackson Hole Mountain Guides have been climbing in the Winds for decades, and have racked up an impressive list of ascents of many of their finest routes.

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