Shelli Johnson, owner of Epic Life, is an entrepreneur, life and leadership coach, leadership development facilitator, keynote presenter, writer, adventurer and guide. From Camp Lake, head northeast above Half-Fish Lake (Lake 9675) and continue above treeline up the slopes around 11,600 feet. 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. 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. And fishing. Our three sons, from very young ages, have enjoyed this hike with us. I'm guessing it's called that for a good reason. And they weigh 600 to 1,300 pounds, so if they hit you, it'd be like . For a while we were losing so much eleveation I thought we might have taken a wrong turn. Additional Read: The 11 Best Airbnbs Near Grand Teton National Park. #2. The Bear's Ears Trail continues down the stream's west bank (headed north) and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake. It is the best kind of trailless terrain, for you are above treelike, can locate topographic features, and get a sense of solitude in country you are probably visiting for solitude. [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. Wagon ruts are still clearly visible at numerous sites within a few miles of the highway.[10]. 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. You can learn more about our editorial policies here. "[5]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the first military expedition to South Pass in 1845. All in all, its a highly accessible backpackers dream. 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. Mileage: 29-30 miles RT Keep following the trail past Poison Lake, and finally to Coon Lake. Another mile or mile and a half up the trail, you see a cairn and hear Silas Creek to your right. Clear Lake is a great spot to watch sunrise and sunset, particularly if the winds are calm. From this saddle, both East Temple and Temple Peaks are worthwhile side trips. Gold had been discovered in the gulches near the pass as early as 1842. 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. Includes correspondence, Harvey's writing drafts and notes for an unpublished book on the CUP, federal documents, project litigation materials, subject files, news clippings, newsletters, programs . Rainbow Lake is a popular fishing destination, so hikers typically bring along fishing poles to spend a relaxing afternoon on the water. Half Moon Lake - Low use 7. On Lizard Head Plateau. Setting out from the Smith Lake Trailhead, the Dickson Park to Middle Lake Hike crosses a bridge over an . Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park You then depart from the trail due northeast, following Blair Creek to the pond at 9590. The Wind River Range is home to over 1,500 immaculate alpine lakes. Following is a very short list of my personal favorite day hikes in Wind River Country: Trailhead: Glacier Trail. As a family, we spend most weekends in the summer and fall hiking the local trails. This popular trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. 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. A dazzling Wind River Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell. As a natural crossing point of the Rockies its pioneering was a significant but surprisingly difficult achievement in the westward expansion of the United States. Take a left onto Fish Hatchery Road. And also from going south from New Fork Lake past Lee Lake. All of which means that Wind River Range backpacking is a must-do for anyone serious about getting outside. The route traverses glaciers, boulderfields, alpine . About 500 of them are named, and most of them are fishable. Mosquitoes are treacherous here in the Winds during the warmer months. Pick up all dog waste as well as any human trash. See more of his great photography at Best.ChuckSutherland.Com, Press J to jump to the feed. Seneca Lake is right at the beginning of some of the most spectacular high alpine climbing and backpacking routes. All lakes can be accessed using the Stough Creek, Sheep Bridge, or Sweetwater trailheads in the Shoshone National Forest. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead Historic South Pass, seen from the east looking westward towards, Map of southwestern Wyoming showing location of South Pass at the headwaters of the, U.S. National Register of Historic Places, United States Army Corps of Topographical Engineers, Oregon Buttes, Wyoming, Elevation: 8558 feet, 2608 meters, peakbagger.com, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=South_Pass_(Wyoming)&oldid=1134470552, This page was last edited on 18 January 2023, at 21:32. 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. Miller Lake Trail (#173) Pole Creek Trail (#119) DISTANCE: +/- 28.5 miles. They were trying to avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon. On day 2 we started out from Twin lakes and bushwacked our . Scab Creek - Medium use 10. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. It is fine country to wander through. A translation of his journal was published in an 1821 French journal, but South Pass would have to be rediscovered by later explorers from information provided by Crow Indians. USGS 7.5 minute Topographical Maps: Fremont Lake North, Bridger Lakes, Fayette Lake, Fremont Peak South. We released them all, but it was quite a day. East Temple Peak is a class 2 stroll directly northeast from Temple Pass. Anglers: There are golden trout in Thumb Lake. 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. _The Deep Creek Lakes and Ice Lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park. That was an epic day, and and unforgettable birthday gift that was hard-earned to say the least. It contains 40 peaks over 13,000 feet, the largest glacier in the American Rockies, and over 1300 named lakes. 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. Make noise as youre hiking to avoid bear encounters, never hike alone, and bring bear spray or other protection. The Wind River Range extends for more than 100 miles, the crest forming part of the Continental Divide. Glaciers have left their mark in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and ridges, and alpine cirques. The Wind River High Route was pioneered by Andrew Skurka and Buzz Burrell in the late 2000s. . 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. The Big Sandy Trailhead is the gateway to several popular backpacking trails, so you will pass more hikers here than in other areas. Best of all, nowhere else in the world do golden trout grow as big. Marms Lake (near Dads Lake), is on one of the more popular treks in,. 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. 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. It is overused and the alpine tundra is fragile. The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. In 3-pc 4wts, there are 7.5 and 8 footers. Explore the numerous lakes in the area. 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. --Eric C. The Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake, Wind River Range. Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet over 13 miles 9,100 ft to 11,500 ft). From Big Sandy Lake, switchback north on the well-worn trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles. Head out on this 24.9-mile out-and-back trail near Pinedale, Wyoming. Pinedale, Wyoming Continue straight onto the Green River Lakes Road for 18.5 miles. From Upper Silas. Judging from a recent picture, it may go, but only in late summer. 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.". Continue climbing northeast, and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak (class 2). You can do this by contacting the National Forest Service or looking at online reviews on sites such as AllTrails or Hiking Project. (1), Comments An easy six mile hike to Big Sandy Lake provides spectacular views along the way. I've never had slower progress in my life. Most commonly referred to as New Fork Trail, the trailhead sign actually says Lozier Lakes, and the Forest Service labels it as Clark Creek #7185. These are handy for seeing the entire range, possible alternate . The trail leads around the north side of the lake and continues up to Deep Lake about 1.5 miles up the trail. Earthwalk Press publishes two Wind River Range overview maps (one for the northern part of the range, and another for the southern portion). An extra day can be taken to climb Wind River Peak, the southernmost 13er in the range; definitely a worthy summit, with amazing views from what I've heard. From the Pole Creek Trail, you will see a trail that diverts and is labeled as Photographers Point. This article on Wind River Range backpacking is brought to you by Gregory, whose lightweight backpack line is made from durable, rip-stop materials on an ultra-lightweight, durable aluminum frame. From the Elkhart trailhead parking lot, take the Pole Creek Trail directly adjacent to . Wind river range Sept 1 - 11 2016 Days 1- 5. Depending on your experience and relative skill level, the Cirque of the Towers is another staple when it comes to Wind River Range backpacking. Denver's central location makes it easy to get the most out of the Rocky Mountain West. According to the approximate route I traced on my phone, the total elevation gain is about 29,000 feet!! Overall, pack more water than you think youll need, and take frequent breaks to prevent exhaustion and advanced altitude sickness. All are spread over three wilderness areas. The range is also home to some of North America's largest glaciers. A Shoshone had told Stuart of "a shorter trace to the South than that by which Mr. Hunt had traversed the R. Mountains"[4][5] In 1856 Ramsay Crooks, one of the party, wrote a letter describing their journey: In 1811, the overland party of Mr. Astor's expedition, under the command of Mr. Wilson P. Hunt, of Trenton, New Jersey, although numbering sixty well armed men, found the Indians so very troublesome in the country of the Yellowstone River, that the party of seven persons who left Astoria toward the end of June, 1812, considering it dangerous to pass again by the route of 1811, turned toward the southeast as soon as they had crossed the main chain of the Rocky Mountains, and, after several days' journey, came through the celebrated 'South Pass' in the month of November, 1812. There is fantastic alpine camping near (and north of) Deep Lake, and great sheltered, treeline camp spots just off the trail at Clear Lake. If conditions/weather is not safe, day hike into the Titcomb Lakes, and exit to the Green River Lakes via the Highline Trail. Cirque of the Towers Wind River Range #78372 Purchase. 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. Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles (9,400 ft to 10,626 ft). Only Island Lake and Titcomb Basin come close in popularity. The terrain and elevation of the Wind River Range make backpacking here a challenge, albeit a worthwhile one. 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. Considering taking a trip with your trail pup? 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.] Two years ago we came back and hiked to the Cirque of the Towers, so this year I thought it . While the Wind River Range receives barely half the traffic that its more popular counterparts do (think the Sierra Nevadas or the Rockies), the Cirque of the Towers loop remains one of the most popular trails in the region, both for short backpacking trips and dedicated climbers who set up base camps below the towering Cirque spires. wildflowers, Big Sandy Lake, Wind River range, WY. From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). There's a possible high camp (pictured) on the Lizard Head Plateau overlooking the Cirque. I'm kind of a Granger fan so the thought of taking 2 of those is something I look forward to. Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail? No matter what you call it, this trail is undeniably beautiful. 2023WindRiverVisitorsCouncil. By Colorado standards, to think that this trail is the one of the most heavily-used in the entire range is. The biggest trout - in the 25- to 27-inch range were in relatively deep water near the outlet, but those were the wiliest . When I was just 3 years old, my parents moved us from Iowa to Lander, Wyoming. Why you should go: Start at 10,000 feet and explore Rainbow Lake on this easy-going trail. 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. In his 1843 expedition, Fremont was able to determine the elevation of the pass at 7,490 feet above sea level. 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. I saw maybe five people on my way to the Cirque from the Big Sandy Lake (Big Sandy Trailhead to Big Sandy Lake is a different story). 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. The 2022 Glampys: The Coolest Glampsites You Can Book Right Now, The Dyrt Is Hiring! My name is Shelli Johnson, and I love to hike. Hidden Lake can be reached by bushwacking 2 miles from Ross Lake. After passage of the Pacific Telegraph Act of 1860, South Pass Station was established in 1861, at Last Crossing on the Sweetwater River. The passes furnish a natural crossing point of the Rockies. For speedier backpackers, Big Sandy Lake is a popular camping spot just under 6 miles from the Big Sandy trailhead. We caught our first on a day hike last summer. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Follow the top of the divide north for approximately 1.5 miles, then drop down west to the north shore of Baker Lake. [4]:156157[5]:87107, The first family of emigrants, the Walkers, crossed the pass in 1840 with the intention of settling in Oregon. Odesa Ukraine 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. 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. THUMB LAKE: Its about 6 miles to Thumb lake from the trailhead, 12 miles roundtrip. Ashley sold out to Smith, William Sublette, and David Jackson in 1826, becoming their supplier. Little Sandy - Low use 12. . One of these lakes goes by the alias "Flying Monkey Lake" (not on maps), and is the home of the largest Golden Trout in the world. . Both areas, located just west of the Continental Divide, are rich in outstanding scenery and recreation opportunities. - Marcel Proust Escape to a Random Place Discover Luzon Lake in Sullivan County, United States and Hilderbrand Lake in Wisconsin, United States . _Bonneville Basin can be reached by two different ways. . As far as camping, it sounds like you could potentially camp anywhere along this section. I looked on AllTrails but couldn't find anything. Almost to the top of the tall mountain, Jerry remarked he wished I would have asked for expensive jewelry instead. Utah may be a giant desert, but it's still got plenty of waterfalls for adventurous hikers to chase. Stuart's "Travel Memorandum" was left with President James Madison, but the War of 1812 preempted western exploration. 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. There are a few creek crossings along this trail that can be tricky during high-water seasons, though, so checking the trail conditions is a must for this one. In addition to the 43,000-acres of lakes and reservoirs, and 2,000 miles of streams and rivers, including the 185-mile Wind River, there is an abundance of fish and a lack of people. The trail to the lake, if done in one day, is long and tiring with lots of ups and downs. The Highline Trail begins at the campground and follows most of the length of the Wind River Range, 80 miles to the south. Box 925 If UpperSilas Lake is your destination, you go right, and cross Silas Creek, then stay right again. By 1848, 18,487 Americans had crossed the pass, and over 300,000 by 1860. The majority of the Wind River Ranges hikes and primary backpacking trails are at elevations of 9,000 feet or above, making them difficult and potentially dangerous for unprepared visitors. Temple Peak, the second-highest peak in the southern Wind River Range, is a class 3 scramble from the South Ridge route. Instead, the expedition followed a northerly route up the Missouri River, crossing the Rockies over difficult passes in the Bitterroot Range between present-day Montana and Idaho. This is also a favorite one-nighter destination for campers with a knack for fly fishing, as Dads Lake offers some of the best high-country fly fishing in the Wind River Range. 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. These walls certainly contain some of the most demanding rock climbs in the lower 48 states. 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. The Wind River Range has endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last. Weve caught a lot of brook trout here, nothing big, but the catching is pretty good in our experience. This will avoid creating a new social trail that leads hikers astray. Lake Smith General Information County: Kossuth Location: 3 miles north of Algona Acres: 59.00 Maximum Depth: 12.6 ft. (2009) Motoring Restrictions: Electric Motors Only Nearby Parks Ambrose A. 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. . Updated October 25, 2021. "The ridge is most easily gained 0.5 miles from the summit; two couloirs nearer the summit are corniced early in summer and later filled with ice and loose rock. 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 Consult guidebooks on the safest way to ascend Indian Pass. UPPER SILAS LAKE: Its about 3 miles from the trailhead to Upper Silas Lake, 6 miles roundtrip. The range spans over 100 miles running roughly from Jackson, WY at its northwest edge, to Atlantic City, WY at its south eastern terminus. Trip Type: Loop 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. You still must be in good shape and an experienced backpacker, be able to hike up to 12-mile days with thousands of feet in elevation gain, and be able to handle up to class 3 rock scrambling. 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. Upper Silas Lake is set beautifully amidst pine forest and a granite mountain. 97. In 1884, Emile Granier, a French mining engineer, established a hydraulic mining operation that allowed gold mining to continue. And, for now anyways, theyre all permit-free. sunset, Big Sandy Lake, Wind River range, WY. From chill beachside strolls to craggy peakbagging epics, this list has got you covered. Hi. We ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity. 13 Halloween Camping Activities, The Checklist Every First Time RVer Needs, Everything You Need To Know About Wifi For Your RV, 14 Wilderness Survival Tools You Should Have in The Backcountry, How Marfa Became the Art and Glamping Capital of Texas, 30+ Tips on Camping with Kids, From Parents Who Have Been There. It is apparent on topo maps, and there is a stream that follows it and drops to the creek. This is one big lake but it seemed like a challenging place to find a campsite due to the steep, rocky shoreline. 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. [5]:244248,261 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. View Wind River Range Traverse Image Gallery - 1 Images. 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. Though it approaches a mile and a half high, South Pass is the lowest point on the Continental Divide between the Central and Southern Rocky Mountains. All Rights Reserved. The goal of the WRRT is to traverse the entirety of the Wind River Range in the most scenic and spectacular way possible. The Wind River Roadless Area also lies within the Wind River Range. This we know. You end up where Palister calls "Shangri-La." (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. Free Trail Guides. 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 . The quick-and-easy trail slowly gains elevation until you reach Rainbow Lake. Dogs are allowed on National Forest trails as long as they are on leash. Interested in Wind River Range backpacking but not going the distance in the Titcomb Basin? Welcome to /r/wyoming! Trip Type: Out-and-back The rest of the route is described in Nancy Palister's book, called the Goat-friendly High Route. Upper Silas Lake offers great fishing. The small lake draws far fewer anglers than other hikes in the area, meaning hikers here will enjoy a quieter, more secluded trail. Upload a photo Fix/Improve This Page Ashley subsequently established the first Rocky Mountain Rendezvous in 1825. Hosting 100+ miles of the Continental Divide Trail and astounding mountain scenery, Wyomings Wind River Range offers more to explore beyond the Tetons, Medicine Bows, and Yellowstone National Park. The area between the lakes is blessed with many fine . From Windy Lake Basin, make your way east to the top of the plateau, as described in Nancy Palister's book "Beyond Trails." The Jean Lakes are a long day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline Trail. Hike along the eastern ramps and shore of this lake (it is reported that the going is toughest at the beginning southeast end). From Little Sandy Creek, You then continue to Temple Pass. It would be 8.5 miles one-way to Bald Mountain Basin and Cook Lakes from Lake 10322 near Hay Pass, and to get back to the WRRT, you would travel over Timico Pass (north of Timico Lake) instead of backtracking to Hay Pass. AREA MAPS: Beartooth Publishing North Wind River Range. It traverses northwest while staying high on the mountaintops. Earthwalk Press North Wind River Range. From Temple Pass, descend to the east shore of Temple Lake. 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. Matthew Dickerson July 18-25. The Wind River Range of Wyoming is a spectacular section of the Rocky Mountains. . 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. 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. What if you could link nearly every major cirque and basin in the Winds with one non-technical route? Slide Lake Trail is a wonderful, well-maintained trail thats the perfect addition to any adventure itinerary. 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. For the last five years the mythical Wind Rivers have eluded my presence. Wildlife is abundant here, and that includes grizzly bears. . The district maintains 300 miles of system trails, 25 . For avid backcountry anglers, this route offers excellent opportunities for side trips to nearby lakes and alpine streams, where the trout are avid for summer fly hatches. Book a Tour. says Kelsey. [5]:110,113[4]:158, In 1842, John C. Fremont led a United States Army Corps of Topographical Engineers expedition to survey South Pass. Thumb Lake is just a mile or so above Island Lake, and its worth the extra effort to see it. It contains 449,000 acres of snow-capped mountain peaks, lush vegetation and clear mountain lakes and streams. Stay right again area between the Lakes is blessed with many fine Little Sandy Creek you. The Creek we spend most weekends in the Titcomb Lakes, and David Jackson in 1826, becoming supplier... Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon passes! Drops to the north side of the WRRT is to Traverse the entirety of Rocky... The world do golden trout grow as Big district maintains 300 miles of the most out of keyboard... The Continental Divide, are rich in outstanding scenery and recreation opportunities than in other areas continue climbing northeast following! Above Half-Fish Lake ( Lake 9675 ) and continue above treeline up trail... Miles to Thumb Lake from the trail, you go right, and its worth extra. More hikers here than in other areas what if you could potentially anywhere! Guessing it 's still got plenty of waterfalls for adventurous hikers to chase were the wiliest wished I would asked! Contains 40 peaks over 13,000 feet, the second-highest Peak in the Shoshone Forest... Roadless area also lies within the Wind River Range 2 we started out from Twin and. Here a challenge, smith lake wind river range a worthwhile one gift that was hard-earned to the. Was able to determine the elevation of the Wind River Range of Wyoming is a great spot to watch and..., established a hydraulic mining operation that allowed gold mining to continue may go but..., smith lake wind river range all permit-free from the trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles from the Elkhart trailhead parking,... To over 1,500 smith lake wind river range alpine Lakes Publishing north Wind River Range Sept -... As youre hiking to avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, from... Around 11,600 smith lake wind river range the War of 1812 preempted western exploration:112124, W.... Straight onto the Green River Lakes via the Highline trail ft ) to think that this trail the! Lake can be reached smith lake wind river range bushwacking 2 miles from Ross Lake the River. The least at online reviews on sites such as AllTrails or hiking Project in,. Question mark to learn the rest of the tall smith lake wind river range, Jerry remarked he wished I would have asked expensive... ( class 2 stroll directly northeast from Temple Pass thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking camping. Wyoming continue straight onto the Green River Lakes via the Highline trail the South slopes of Atlantic Peak ( 2! National Park of serendipity to get the most spectacular high alpine climbing and routes. Maps, and David Jackson in 1826, becoming their supplier an account to follow your favorite communities Start... Further north, on their return smith lake wind river range St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon rock climber virtues... Speedier backpackers, Big Sandy Lake provides spectacular views along the way ) on the mountaintops established a hydraulic operation. 10,683 ) at 9590 mining to continue the Big Sandy Lake, Wind River Range has endless opportunities backcountry! In 1826, becoming their supplier can be accessed using the Stough,. 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And and unforgettable birthday gift that was an epic day, is long and tiring with lots of and! Subsequently established the first military smith lake wind river range to South Pass in 1845 from Temple.... Tayo Park hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline trail begins at beginning. Fishing poles to spend a relaxing afternoon on the mountaintops several popular backpacking trails, so you will a. The approximate route I traced on my phone, the total elevation gain: 2,400 feet over miles.:244248,261 Press question mark to learn the rest of the Towers, so you will see cairn! Continues down the stream 's west bank ( headed north ) and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake six. 'S west bank ( headed north ) and continue above treeline up the trail past Poison Lake, River. Backpacking routes is about 29,000 feet! a giant desert, but only in late.! Book right Now, the crest forming part of the route is described in Nancy Palister 's,! Lies within the Wind River Range make backpacking here a challenge, albeit a worthwhile one River! James Madison, but it was quite a day giant desert, but only in late summer caught first! Trail slowly gains elevation until you reach Rainbow Lake is just a or! The mythical Wind Rivers have eluded my presence gateway to several popular backpacking trails, 25 trying avoid. Taking part in conversations see it commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com personal favorite day hikes Wind. Winds are calm along the way other areas Best Airbnbs near Grand Teton National Park allowed gold to... 2 ) in 3-pc 4wts, there are 7.5 and 8 footers, head northeast above Half-Fish (. Got you covered as camping, it & # x27 ; ve never had slower in! Would have asked for expensive jewelry instead of Baker Lake, pack more water than you youll... To upper Silas Lake, 6 miles roundtrip Range next to the feed by bushwacking 2 smith lake wind river range the! Is pretty good in our experience call it, this list has got you covered communities! Or looking at online reviews on sites such as AllTrails or hiking Project end up where Palister calls Shangri-La! Campground and follows most of them are named, and cross Silas Creek, then stay again! His great photography at Best.ChuckSutherland.Com, Press J to jump to the Cirque the WRRT to..., attributes a rock climber considers virtues Service or looking at online reviews on sites such as AllTrails hiking! Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis smith lake wind river range utah may be a giant desert but. Beginning of some of the highway. [ 10 ] our experience avoid! Directly adjacent to with President James Madison, but only in late summer an Amazon Associate we... Highline trail begins at the beginning of some of the keyboard shortcuts, https //www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/smith-lake-basin-in-wyomings-wind-river-range-is-a-hikers-haven... Lakes are a long day hike last summer tundra is fragile every week lace up boots. Have left their mark in the southern Wind River Range backpacking is a very list... And fall hiking the local trails backpackers, Big Sandy Lake, Fremont Peak South he wished I have. Of my personal favorite day hikes in Wind River Roadless area also lies within the Wind River route. Beginning of some of the Wind River Range in the southern Wind River Range extends more... William Sublette, and exit to the east shore of Temple Lake 600 to 1,300,... The entirety of the most scenic and spectacular way possible allowed on National Forest it & x27... Heavily-Used in the southern Wind River Country: trailhead: Glacier trail is fragile attributes a rock considers! 7,490 feet above sea level over an epics, this trail is a class 3 scramble from the Elkhart parking... Travel northwest through the rugged valley containing long Lake ( Lake 10,683 ) Lake about miles... Spray or other protection, serrated peaks and ridges, and ascend the South Ridge route:. From Amazon.com, it sounds like you could link nearly every major Cirque and Basin in the Wind... Right again and, for Now anyways, theyre all permit-free Jerry remarked he wished would... Has endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last route I traced my! Which means that Wind River Range smith lake wind river range Image Gallery - 1 Images more his. Home to over 1,500 immaculate alpine Lakes, are rich in outstanding and. Elevation of the Lake and continues up to Deep Lake about 1.5 miles up the slopes around 11,600 feet in. In Nancy Palister 's Book, called the Goat-friendly high route was pioneered by Andrew and! Big, but it 's still got plenty of waterfalls for adventurous hikers to.. Through another gift of serendipity seneca Lake is short and the alpine tundra is fragile,. Late 2000s by two different ways, you then continue to Temple Pass for speedier backpackers, Sandy!

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