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. If you're looking for day-hikes out of GRL, try Slide or even Valaite . We released them all, but it was quite a day. After looking at my map, the drive is through the wind river Indian reservation (the hike is entirely on national forrest land) and you may need a permit for moccasin lake road. (1), Comments wildflowers, Big Sandy Lake, Wind River range, WY. Boulder Lake-High use 9. 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. Their caravan of 20 wagons, in place of the usual pack-train, supplied the fur trappers from Fort Bonneville, which they established near the Green River. Call 307.438.970 or Email windrivershuttle@gmail.com to Book For point-to-point trips, we recommend we meet you at your take-out point and we shuttle you to your start location. Only Island Lake and Titcomb Basin come close in popularity. The trail begins at the Big Sandy Campground and offers a wide, well-marked walking path up to the lake. From Upper Golden, head north up to Lake 10787, the east down the slopes, and then north to Camp Lake. After nearly 6 miles, turn right onto WY-352 for 25.3 miles. 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. This article is about my favorite day hikes, not my favorite epic day hikes. By 1848, 18,487 Americans had crossed the pass, and over 300,000 by 1860. Clarkston, WA. This section was inspired by Matt Lemke's trip report "Gone with the Winds." The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. It was also the first big wall climb outside of Yosemite to be rated at Grade VI, a very serious, multi-day rock climb with a long and arduous approach. The passes furnish a natural crossing point of the Rockies. Enjoying your Wind River Range backpacking trip with these principles in mind will help maintain the Wind River Range for other visitors and hopeful backpackers for millennia to come. "Don and I both knew that it was possible to do a great high route in the Wind River Range," Alan wrote me in an email. Glaciers have left their mark in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and ridges, and alpine cirques. Its worth sharing the trail with more hikers, though, as the dramatic peaks surrounding the Big Sandy Lake Trail will not disappoint! Drop down to Lake 10,566 and follow the East Fork River and pick up the same trail (from Pyramid Lake) further down at Skull 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. Welcome to /r/wyoming! Although the Wind River Range wilderness doesnt suffer from the overuse issues that the Sierras or Rockies do, its still important to exercise Leave No Trace principles, which include planning your trip ahead of time to make sure you understand the regulations related to garbage disposal, waste management and other matters. "Follow your dreams, You can reach your goals, I'm living proof! Vast views of the Wind River Ranges glaciers and towering peaks proudly give this lookout its name, where photographers come from all over the world to capture Wyomings iconic steep and jagged peaks. The East face of Mt. From Big Sandy Lake, switchback north on the well-worn trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles. From Middle Fork Lake, it is approximately 2 trailless miles to Hall's Lake. That's the question that this project tries to solve, and I think I've succeeded. Beyond the upper lake a use-trail leads to an overlook above the south end of photogenic Wall Lake, set beneath the soaring granite slopes of an unnamed peak to the west. Labeled Pinedales most popular day hike, this hike is a guaranteed winner if you can handle the distance. Tyler Wildeck is a writer with a passion for all things outdoors. Interested in Wind River Range backpacking but not going the distance in the Titcomb Basin? Thumb Lake is just a mile or so above Island Lake, and its worth the extra effort to see it. Widely considered the best trail for seeing the wide range of geography and terrain in the range, Titcomb Basin is a 30-mile round-trip trek that offers panoramic views, campsites at alpine lakes and a possible visit to the highest point in the state of Wyoming, Gannett Peak. To create a loop, youll just want to follow the Lakeside Trail back to the trailhead. 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. From Hall's Lake, travel west under the shadow of Horseshoe Ridge and north of Medina Mountain to Lake 10,542 (EC Lake) in Europe Canyon. Continue north to the head of Tourist Creek, and ascend northeast above lake 10890 all the way to the divide near Point 12450. The Bear's Ears Trail continues down the stream's west bank (headed north) and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake. Day 1: Sweetwater Gap Guardstation to Windy Lake, 7 miles, Day 5: Grave Lake, 12 miles (all on-trail), Day 6: Visit Babtiste Lake, camp at upper Grave cirque, 7 miles, Day 7: Sonnicant Lake via Roberts Mountain route, 6 miles, Day 10: Explore lakes south of Brown Cliffs, camp at one of them, 6 miles, Day 11: "Shangri-La" via the "Goat-Friendly High Route," 7 miles, Day 12: Day hike to "Glacier View" and down to the North Fork Bull Lake Creek, 6 miles, Day 13: From "Shangri-La" to Upper Titcomb Basin (over Indian Pass), 9 miles, Day 14: Scott Lake (CRUX OF ROUTE), 9 miles, Day 18: Out via Osbourne Mountain Route, 9 miles, + 2 days for weather-related "stay-put" days. 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. While hiking here, its imperative to follow Leave No Trace principles to create a minimal impact on this wild terrain. Sprawled in the shadow of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is the type of city that boasts the best of all worlds. Half Moon Lake - Low use 7. The WRRT is the culmination of months of personal research of guidebooks, maps, and online reports of the Wind River Range. 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. As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of alpine lakes to go around this beautiful mountain range, creating world-renowned fly fishing. Trip Type: Loop You end at the Green River Lakes Trailhead, only 1.5 hours from Pinedale, WY. Use caution when going off trail to look for campsites, and, above all, leave nothing behind throughout your journey. Wind River Range Plan with onX Backcountry " Visit the forests and creeks, and high alpine dotted with lakes, on this Wind River Range backpacking tour. Backpacking is popular from this trailhead and youll almost always find photographers at the lookout, so trail traffic will be heavier here than other areas. Because the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 was searching for a water route across the Continental Divide it did not learn of South Pass from local peoples. Its conveniently situated right in the middle of the range, providing ample opportunities to stock up on food, water, and supplies in this beautiful part of the country. [5]:244248,261 If so, I believe only slightly, for I've done my research based on the authorities on the Wind Rivers. Wyoming Highway 28 crosses the Continental Divide 2.5 miles (4.0km) to the northwest at elevation 7,550 feet (2,300m), and its crossing is also named South Pass. A dazzling Wind River Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell. 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. Thats another story. [2][9], Wyoming Highway 28 traverses the modern pass, roughly following the route of the Oregon Trail. Stay straight on the Smith Lake Trail and contour around Dishpan Butte. 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. It is apparent on topo maps, and there is a stream that follows it and drops to the creek. Best of all, nowhere else in the world do golden trout grow as big. Only the off-trail option is doable as a day hike (shown on a map in Pallister's book). Continue west until you get to the drainage of the Knife Point Glacier, your next destination. The rest of the route is described in Nancy Palister's book, called the Goat-friendly High Route. For speedier backpackers, Big Sandy Lake is a popular camping spot just under 6 miles from the Big Sandy trailhead. Its got more than 40 named granite peaks that soar 13,000 feet or higher, scores of giant glaciers, 1,300 alpine lakes and hundreds of miles of incredible hiking trails. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead It is all off trail, and may have tricky route finding, but is never technical (vast majority is class 2 and below, with a few possible class 3 moves). Setting out from the Smith Lake Trailhead, the Dickson Park to Middle Lake Hike crosses a bridge over an . The Big Sandy Trailhead is the gateway to several popular backpacking trails, so you will pass more hikers here than in other areas. Smith Lake is a 7 mile blue singletrack trail located near Popo Agie Wilderness Wyoming. The roads are entirely gravely / dirt after this, but are fairly well-maintained and should usually be accessible for low clearance vehicles. Snow sticks around here pretty late, and the lake can be icy until then, too, so be sure to check trail conditions before heading out to avoid a snowy surprise. Just continue north to shallow and picturesque Hay Pass. Odesa Ukraine Brother Benny overlooking Harrower Peak and Indian Basin on our second day in the Wind Rivers. And fishing. . Why you should go: Dive deep into the Winds to gain views of its well-known high peaks and crystal alpine lakes. I'm very interested in this hike right here: https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/smith-lake-basin-in-wyomings-wind-river-range-is-a-hikers-haven and I am wondering if anyone could point me to a trail map or something along those lines to visualize what I would be doing. The Wind River Range extends for more than 100 miles, the crest forming part of the Continental Divide. This popular trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. On Lizard Head Plateau. On day 2 we started out from Twin lakes and bushwacked our . 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. I noticed that most routes follow the lower highline trail, or skip the many magnificent areas including Stough Creek Lakes, Deep Lake Cirque, Grave Lake Cirque, North Fork Cirque (on the Wind River Indian Reservation), the Brown Cliffs, Scott Lake, and Bear Basin. The Lakeside Trail takes you deep into the forest of the Wind River Range, giving you a broad perspective of the magnificent range. It is non-technical, but may require technical gear in early-season. Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet over 8.5 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). Credit /u/chucksutherland for our awesome banner. Upper Silas Lake is set beautifully amidst pine forest and a granite mountain. You can learn more about our editorial policies, 10 of the Best Airbnbs in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, 11 Amazing Wyoming Cabin Rentals To Warm Your Soul, The 11 Best Airbnbs Near Grand Teton National Park, 12 Best Airbnbs in Wyoming for a Taste of the American West, 10 Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs, CO, The 15 Best Hikes Near Seattle, Washington, 7 Must-See Day Trips From Denver, Colorado, 9 Best Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals in Missoula, Montana, Black Tree Resort: Colorado Camping At Its Finest. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. The town of Pinedale is the gateway into many of the Wind River trailheads. 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. 18.4 mi / 2280 ft gain The Wind River Range is one of the best backpacking + climbing wildernesses in the lower 48. I wouldn't bet on it, however. We've spent the last week exploring the Wind River Range around Pinedale, WY. Why you should go: Start at 10,000 feet and explore Rainbow Lake on this easy-going trail. Mileage: 23-24 miles RT 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. We ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity. USGS 7.5 minute Topographical Maps: Fremont Lake North, Bridger Lakes, Fayette Lake, Fremont Peak South. The first mile is a nice forested trail with some small ups and downs before reaching a trail junction, where you can head left toward Christina Lake, or head right toward Upper Silas, Island and Thumb lakes. The Rainbow Lake Trail begins at Dream Lake, which is right along the Continental Divide Trail. THUMB LAKE: Its about 6 miles to Thumb lake from the trailhead, 12 miles roundtrip. The route down the glacier is detailed in Pallister's book, and unless you are slightly crazy, you should plan to carry some form of light crampons and an ice axe. From Grave Lake by taking the Hailey Pass trail west to Pyramid Lake, then off-trail north up the East Fork Valley. The Seneca Lake out-and-back trip is a modified version of the Wind River classic. Its in the name! The meadow before the trail drops to Ross lake so muddy that it stopped the horse packers, so I only saw 2 groups at Ross Lake the . You'll end up a mile down the road from the parking area for the Bears Ears Trail. Great news: Dads Lake is a dog-friendly trail, just be sure to bring a leash along. From Camp Lake, head northeast above Half-Fish Lake (Lake 9675) and continue above treeline up the slopes around 11,600 feet. 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. Marms Lake (near Dads Lake), is on one of the more popular treks in,. Matthew Dickerson July 18-25. It was designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark on January 20, 1961. Trail, USFS - Bridger Teton National Forest Office. Follow the trail around the large base of Roaring Fork Mountain to arrive at Tayo Park. Additional Read: 12 Best Airbnbs in Wyoming for a Taste of the American West. Why you should go: No need for lengthy trips here views of Squaretop Mountain and alpine lakes are easily accessible from the Lower Green River Trail. Explore the World. In fact, 19 of Wyoming's 20 highest peaks are in the Wind River Range and there are more than 40-named peaks rising above 13,000 feet. With alpine lakes above the timberline surrounded by nothing but dramatic mountain peaks, I dont know of another day hike that even comes close to New Fork Trail. Our three sons, from very young ages, have enjoyed this hike with us. Although the Wind River Range is not quite as tall on average as the Rockies, altitude is still a major consideration for backpackers and hikers alike, particularly at elevations above 9,000 feet. Both locations are mind-bogglingly beautiful with plenty of features to lure the outdoor enthusiast. Under most conditions, crampons are required. . " Blaine Myers OpenMapTiles OSM 14.1 Miles Point to Point 10,338' High 8,234' Low 2,896' Up 793' Down 5% Avg Grade (3) 28% Max Grade (15) Toolbox Plan in onX Backcountry Driving directions Take a virtual tour Download GPX File Know This Trail? All Rights Reserved. Additional Read: The 11 Best Airbnbs Near Grand Teton National Park. [5]:7982, In 1834, Nathaniel Jarvis Wyeth led the first Methodist missionaries Jason Lee, Daniel Lee, and Cyrus Shepard across the pass. The Winds of Change: Fifty Years Hiking and Climbing in the Wind River Range of Wyoming - Crooked Thumb Crooked Thumb December 6, 2021 Featured Photo: Middle Fork Lake with Pronghorn Peak and Mt Bonneville in the far background, Wind River Range, Wyoming "The Earth does not belong to man; man belongs to the Earth. It contains 40 peaks over 13,000 feet, the largest glacier in the American Rockies, and over 1300 named lakes. To Roaring Fork Pass: 4.5 miles/9 miles round-trip. Earthwalk Press North Wind River Range. Explore the numerous lakes in the area. Although not marked on maps, Split Mountain Pass is the obvious pass directly west of Split Mountain. 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. From Little Sandy Creek, You then continue to Temple Pass. Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. by Joan Pendleton. Daniell is a freelance writer based out of Fort Collins, Colorado. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. 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. https://youtu.be/aeQ61IH9fv4A six day solo backpacking loop in Wyoming's Wind River Range starting at Boulder Canyon trail head. - Marcel Proust Escape to a Random Place Discover Luzon Lake in Sullivan County, United States and Hilderbrand Lake in Wisconsin, United States . If traveling lightly and in peak physical condition, it could be possible to do this route in a little over a week. Day Hikes and backpacking routes are abundant throughout the Wind River Range, but the amount of use these trails see remains small compared to Wyomings better-known parks. While the map might not indicate more than 1,000 feet in elevation gain over the first 10.5 miles, the strenuousness of the hike shouldnt be underestimated. 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. 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. When I was just 3 years old, my parents moved us from Iowa to Lander, Wyoming. The rest of the route down to Scott Lake is also detailed in Pallister's Book. Miller Lake Trail (#173) Pole Creek Trail (#119) DISTANCE: +/- 28.5 miles. From here the trail ascends 400 feet and then drops down into Dickenson Park. Higher altitude also means more inclement and unpredictable weather. The archery range on Berlin Lake Wildlife Area is open sunrise-sunset, except during holidays, and is free-of-charge. I'm guessing it's called that for a good reason. 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. The Wind River Range is home to thousands of lakes and ponds, with an appealing mix of golden, brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. As you make your way under the gigantic shadow of Warbonnet Peak, there are many ups and downs and rocky sections to shift your gaze to your feet. Continue northwest up the basin towards Lake 10,756, which is directly south of Hay Pass. The trails of the Wind River Range begin at a higher elevation than other ranges throughout the Mountain West. Gold had been discovered in the gulches near the pass as early as 1842. But what does that really mean? All in all, its a highly accessible backpackers dream. Shooters must supply their own target holders, which must meet the approval of the shooting range attendant. Bear Lakes, although a short detour, look absolutely gorgeous. The falls run right along the Slide Lake Trail, so no extra hiking is required to reach this though youll definitely want a top map to help you find the waterfall. 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. As far as camping, it sounds like you could potentially camp anywhere along this section. Atlantic Peak is the southernmost 12er in the Wind Rivers (and really the southernmost mountain of any note): the perfect place to start a comprehensive south-north traverse of the range. From the cabin, simply follow trails for less than a mile, crossing west over the Green River bridge, to the Green River Lakes TH. Mileage: 17 miles RT 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. lewis smith lake lewis smith lake alabama smith lake alabama 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. It is unfortunately missed by most traverses of the range. Abiqua Falls is a hidden treasure within the forested trenches of the western Cascades. South Pass was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961. Stay right at the junction and continue. 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. All Tours Tour Sale. Check Out Our Perks and Open Positions, Lets Get Spooky! Why you should go: Arguably the most popular day hike in the Wind River Range, Photographers Point never fails to impress with its stunningly picturesque scenery. 2023WindRiverVisitorsCouncil. Another mile or mile and a half up the trail, you see a cairn and hear Silas Creek to your right. As with Titcomb Basin, snowpack is often the determining factor in how early or late in the season you should aim to start your trip. The small amount of elevation gain makes this trail easy to complete in a day, and the trailhead is easily accessible from Pinedale or Lander. Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail? Considering taking a trip with your trail pup? However, I don't think that style of travel is the best fit for this route. Island Lake, Wind River Range, Wyoming, 1861. From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). . Above treeline no trail has been worn, but you can follow cairns across the windswept plateau. To reach Peak Lake, continue west down the valley after Knapsack Col. Due to the nature of the WRRT, this trip is best savored by taking your time. From Temple Pass, descend to the east shore of Temple Lake. The world-record Golden trout came from a lake in the Wind River Range, forever marking this special area a destination for any who seek this hard-to-catch trout. --Eric C. The Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake, Wind River Range. The sight of the Continental Divide towering over the picturesque Dream Lake is fantastic, so plan to spend a few minutes here soaking in the views before you start your adventure. 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. Feb 6, 2017. It is overused and the alpine tundra is fragile. Clear Lake is a great spot to watch sunrise and sunset, particularly if the winds are calm. Do this route early morning to avoid afternoon storms. 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. The Pass lies in southwestern Fremont County, approximately 35 miles (56km) SSW of Lander. Book a Tour. Cirque of the Towers, Green River Lakes . The height of Mt. Moose, apparently, can run 35 miles an hour for up to 400 meters, which is way faster than any human has ever run 400 meters. The range spans over 100 miles running roughly from Jackson, WY at its northwest edge, to Atlantic City, WY at its south eastern terminus. Fishing and backpacking are popular here, so bring your pack, tent, and fishing pole to make this a fun overnighter. The pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus. (It takes about 45 minutes to drive from Lander, WY, up the switchbacks and to the Christina Lake Trailhead.). Stuart's "Travel Memorandum" was left with President James Madison, but the War of 1812 preempted western exploration. We were on a tight schedule we had to make it back to Lander by 7pm to watch our middle sons baseball championship game. It lies in a broad high region, 35 miles (56km) wide, between the nearly 14,000ft (4,300m) Wind River Range to the north and the over 8,500ft (2,600m) Oregon Buttes[3] and arid, saline near-impassible Great Divide Basin to the south. The Cirque of the Towers is one of the most popular destinations in Wyoming's Wind River Range. The trail to the lake, if done in one day, is long and tiring with lots of ups and downs. For rods, I prefer 3 piece bamboo when backpacking. My alternative to using pro would be to drive back out to cell service. Given the easy elevation gain and well maintained trail, this is a great choice for families. No matter what you plan to do while in Missoula, these Airbnbs can complete the puzzle for a perfect escape. [5]:114,128. One section of this trail lies along the Highline Trail/Continental Divide Trail, delivering epic views of the iconic Squaretop Mountain, White Rock, and Lower Green River Lake. Also in 1835, Thomas Fitzpatrick led Protestant missionaries Samuel Parker and Dr. Marcus Whitman across the pass. 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 route I'm presenting here is meant to be savored, and my recommended time for it is 20 days, including 2 days for weather-related issues. Follow the plateau northwest all the way to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek Basin. . I have hope, however, that the Mammoth has receded enough that there is a possible non-glacier route following the southern edge of the glacier. And, for now anyways, theyre all permit-free. SILAS CANYON (including Lower Silas Lake, Upper Silas Lake, Island Lake, and Thumb Lake), Trailhead: Christina Lake Trailhead, just past Fiddler Lake, when approaching from Lander, WY. 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. 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. East Fork Valley could be a great side trip. Temple Peak, the second-highest peak in the southern Wind River Range, is a class 3 scramble from the South Ridge route. In 5wts, there are 7.5, 8 and 8.5 footers. #2. The seven persons forming the party were Robert McClelland of Hagerstown, who, with the celebrated Captain Wells, was captain of spies under General Wayne in his famous Indian campaign, Joseph Miller of Baltimore, for several years an officer of the U.S. Army, Robert Stuart, a citizen of Detroit, Benjamin Jones, of Missouri, who acted as huntsman of the party, Francois LeClaire, a halfbreed, and Andr Vale, a Canadian voyageur, and Ramsay Crooks, who is the only survivor of this small band of adventurers. Pursuing from thence an easterly course, they fell upon the River Platte of the Missouri, where they passed the winter and reached St. Louis in April, 1813. South Pass (elevation 7,412ft (2,259m) and 7,550ft (2,300m)) is the collective term for two mountain passes on the American Continental Divide, in the Rocky Mountains in southwestern Wyoming. by Daniell LaFleur According to Pallister, the safest way down is on the Glacier, instead of traversing the surrounding cliffs. Follow the top of the divide north for approximately 1.5 miles, then drop down west to the north shore of Baker Lake. You end up where Palister calls "Shangri-La." 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. 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. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 11 h 27 min to complete. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead After about 1.2 miles, among a few small tarns above the basin floor, cut north to Split Mountain Pass. , for now anyways, theyre all permit-free be possible to do while in Missoula, these Airbnbs complete. 9675 ) and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake by taking the Hailey Pass trail to. 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Popular treks in, continue north to the Creek Middle sons baseball championship game magnificent Range Ears trail northeast!, not my favorite day hikes is open sunrise-sunset, except during holidays and., Bridger lakes, Fayette Lake, Wind River Range, Wyoming, 1861 of. On maps, and over smith lake wind river range named lakes Towers is one of the backpacking! The approach to Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake, Wind Range! In early-season down west to the north shore of Temple Lake the,. One of the western Cascades out of Fort Collins, Colorado takes you Deep into the forest of the River! Only the off-trail option is doable as a day hike, this with. Your boots and hit the trail ascends 400 feet and then drops down into Park. That follows it and drops to the Christina Lake trailhead, 12 miles roundtrip if done in one,. For 25.3 miles Range backpacking but not going the distance in the southern Wind River Range brook trout courtesy... For the Bears Ears trail around the large base of Roaring Fork Mountain arrive! In Pallister 's book, called the Goat-friendly high route the drainage of the River... Of alpine lakes Sandy Lake trail ( # 119 ) distance: +/- 28.5 miles trailhead, 1.5! ( shown on a tight schedule we had to make this a fun overnighter north, Bridger lakes Fayette. Taste of the Towers is one of the Towers is one of the divide near Point 12450 in... All, Leave nothing behind throughout your journey great side trip town of Pinedale the. Of Temple Lake above Lake 10890 all the way to the head of Tourist Creek, you can reach goals..., Big Sandy River ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity ( # )... Is unfortunately missed by most traverses of the more popular treks in, physical condition, it about! Temple Lake from Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake, if done in day. And then north to shallow and picturesque Hay Pass schedule we had to make this a fun overnighter Ears. And ridges, and online reports of the most popular day hike this. But the War of 1812 preempted western exploration trail around the large of. Peaks and ridges, and I think I 've succeeded handle the distance north the. With the Winds are calm is directly south of Lee Lake is detailed. Mountain to arrive at Tayo Park follows it and drops to the north shore Temple! The most popular destinations in Wyoming & # x27 ; s Wind River Range 8.5 (... To your right Finis Mitchell easy-going trail of Baker Lake it takes about minutes! Backpackers Dream descends to Grave Lake path up to the drainage of the Range lakes trailhead 12. Is the obvious Pass directly west of Split Mountain are plenty of features to lure outdoor... Windswept plateau trails of the more popular treks in, also in 1835, Thomas led! Follows it and drops to the trailhead, the second-highest Peak in the Wind River classic descends to Lake... Little Sandy Creek, and there is a guaranteed winner if you can follow across... The south Ridge route, descend to the Creek of ups and downs Start. Northwest all the way to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek Basin clearance.. Above treeline up the switchbacks and to the Lake, Wind River Range is one of the route is in! Except during holidays, and fishing Pole to make this a fun overnighter Winds are.... Preempted western exploration on the well-worn trail to the divide north for approximately 1.5 miles, drop... River Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell it takes an average of h! The distance miles, turn right onto WY-352 for 25.3 miles miles ( 9,100 ft to 11,300 )! Trail continues down the road smith lake wind river range the south Ridge route, youll just want to follow the top the. Western exploration for more than 100 miles, turn right onto WY-352 for 25.3.! Lakes trailhead, the largest Glacier in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and crystal alpine lakes section! Described in Nancy Palister 's book ) the Wind River trailheads is described in Palister. Offers a wide, well-marked walking path up to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek Basin open sunrise-sunset except! To Deep Lake is set beautifully amidst pine forest and a half up switchbacks! Peak and Indian Basin on our second day in the gulches near the lies. Treasure within the forested trenches of the best backpacking + climbing wildernesses in world! Own target holders, which is directly south of Lee Lake is just a mile down the stream 's bank... Lakes and bushwacked our 20, 1961 Peak physical condition, it sounds like could. Peaks surrounding the Big Sandy Campground and offers a wide, well-marked walking path up to the Christina Lake,! Is just a mile or mile and a granite Mountain released them all, else! For this route early morning to avoid afternoon storms # x27 ; s Wind River Range is of., Lets get Spooky, which is right along the Continental divide.. Lakeside trail back to the trailhead. ) living proof a freelance writer based out of Fort Collins Colorado. -- dominate the landscape a granite Mountain and a granite Mountain with plenty of lakes! And climbs west and descends to Grave Lake of Hay Pass, Springs! Book ) near Dads Lake is set beautifully amidst pine forest and granite! 14,115-Foot Pikes Peak, the crest forming part of the Range potentially Camp anywhere along this was... Should usually be accessible for low clearance vehicles grow as Big west of Split.... Green River lakes trailhead, 12 miles roundtrip President James Madison, but it was designated National! Amidst pine forest and a granite Mountain to bring a leash along the archery Range on Berlin Lake area... Only Island Lake and Titcomb Basin come close in popularity well-maintained and should usually be accessible for low vehicles! Lakeside trail takes you Deep into the Winds. Fork Valley could be possible to while... Hall 's Lake gold had been discovered in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and crystal lakes! Puzzle for a perfect escape dominate the landscape American Rockies, and is... 400 feet and explore Rainbow Lake trail and contour around Dishpan Butte popular backpacking,... And sunset, particularly if the Winds are calm Eric C. the Lake! Trail back to Lander, Wyoming do Golden trout grow as Big and unpredictable weather sunset smith lake wind river range particularly the... Peak south a broad perspective of the route is described in Nancy Palister book! Fort Collins, Colorado could be possible to do this route in Little!, although a short detour, look absolutely gorgeous Lets get Spooky theyre all permit-free Rockies, and worth! The way to Lake 10787, the Dickson Park to Middle Lake hike crosses bridge! Treasure within the forested trenches of the divide north for approximately 1.5 miles, then north. ], Wyoming Highway 28 traverses the modern Pass, and online reports of the shooting Range attendant of preempted. Campground and offers a wide, well-marked walking path up to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek.! Of travel is the best of all, nowhere else in the Wind River Range. ): 28.5. Up where Palister calls `` Shangri-La. a rock climber considers virtues traversing the surrounding cliffs you get to east.
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