Trip Type: Out-and-back Consult guidebooks on the safest way to ascend Indian Pass. 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. 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. Few places in North America are as staggeringly beautiful as Titcomb Basin and Island Lake. Follow the plateau northwest all the way to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek Basin. Joe Kelsey says the following of this area, "Hall's Lake sits at 10,602 feet in the midst of a large area decreed trailless by the Forest Service. She is married to Jerry, and is the mother of three sons, Wolf, Hayden, and Fin. 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. Hike through forest and up the rolling trail for about another mile before arriving at Upper Silas Lake. The Big Piney Ranger District hosts a wide variety of cultural and natural history, recreational opportunities, timber, range, mineral reserves, and wildlife. The Jean Lakes are a long day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline Trail. Shooters must supply their own target holders, which must meet the approval of the shooting range attendant. In 1841, Fitzpatrick led the Bartleson-Bidwell Party across the pass, the first wagon train. To Hike to Lake Louise: Its about 2.5 miles to Lake Louise, 5 miles roundtrip. Earthwalk Press publishes two Wind River Range overview maps (one for the northern part of the range, and another for the southern portion). Beefcake!" The Seneca Lake out-and-back trip is a modified version of the Wind River classic. The rest of the route down to Scott Lake is also detailed in Pallister's Book. Denver's central location makes it easy to get the most out of the Rocky Mountain West. 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. Clear Lake is a great spot to watch sunrise and sunset, particularly if the winds are calm. We caught our first on a day hike last summer. https://youtu.be/aeQ61IH9fv4A six day solo backpacking loop in Wyoming's Wind River Range starting at Boulder Canyon trail head. Historic South Pass is the lower of the two passes (elevation 7,412 feet (2,259m)), and was the easy crossing point used by emigrants. Continue northwest up the basin towards Lake 10,756, which is directly south of Hay Pass. Higher altitude also means more inclement and unpredictable weather. Box 925 Heres our take on the best day hikes in the Wind River Range. While hiking here, its imperative to follow Leave No Trace principles to create a minimal impact on this wild terrain. Stretching over 100 miles along the Continental Divide, the Wind River Range in Wyoming is an oft-missed treasure trove for backcountry exploration. In 1884, Emile Granier, a French mining engineer, established a hydraulic mining operation that allowed gold mining to continue. For more information please visit The State of Wyoming's website. 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. I wouldn't bet on it, however. 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. The Wind River Range has endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last. This is one big lake but it seemed like a challenging place to find a campsite due to the steep, rocky shoreline. Island Lake is beautiful! 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. Scab Creek - Medium use 10. The trail leads around the north side of the lake and continues up to Deep Lake about 1.5 miles up the trail. 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. You end at the Green River Lakes Trailhead, only 1.5 hours from Pinedale, WY. 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. You'll want to bring your friends and family to experience the sheer quantity (and quality) of scenic, unbeatable camping across Sublette County. And fishing. Wildlife is abundant here, and that includes grizzly bears. The area between the lakes is blessed with many fine . Island Lake is so named because theres an small island with trees on it in the middle. From here, there is a maintained trail all the way to Big Sandy Lake. Miller Lake Trail (#173) Pole Creek Trail (#119) DISTANCE: +/- 28.5 miles. For rods, I prefer 3 piece bamboo when backpacking. (It takes about 45 minutes to drive from Lander, WY, up the switchbacks and to the Christina Lake Trailhead.). The Rainbow Lake Trail begins at Dream Lake, which is right along the Continental Divide Trail. Head out on this 24.9-mile out-and-back trail near Pinedale, Wyoming. Seneca Lake is right at the beginning of some of the most spectacular high alpine climbing and backpacking routes. Gold had been discovered in the gulches near the pass as early as 1842. When hiking in a group, you should always stay on the trail to avoid creating erosion. 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. Both areas, located just west of the Continental Divide, are rich in outstanding scenery and recreation opportunities. According to Pallister, the safest way down is on the Glacier, instead of traversing the surrounding cliffs. The Wind River Range is one of the best backpacking + climbing wildernesses in the lower 48. We ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity. The section from Big Sandy Lake to the Cirque of the Towers will be the busiest part of the entire WRRT. Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park After passage of the Pacific Telegraph Act of 1860, South Pass Station was established in 1861, at Last Crossing on the Sweetwater River. 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. 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. If you cant plan your trip in September, I recommend wearing long layers and applying a healthy dose of DEET. 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. This would add about. Also in 1835, Thomas Fitzpatrick led Protestant missionaries Samuel Parker and Dr. Marcus Whitman across the pass. About 500 of them are named, and most of them are fishable. An easy six mile hike to Big Sandy Lake provides spectacular views along the way. The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. Brother Benny overlooking Harrower Peak and Indian Basin on our second day in the Wind Rivers. 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. Mosquitoes are treacherous here in the Winds during the warmer months. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. To first of the Stough Creek Basin lakes: 6.5 miles/13 miles round-trip. 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 . 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. The Wind River Roadless Area also lies within the Wind River Range. The goal of the WRRT is to traverse the entirety of the Wind River Range in the most scenic and spectacular way possible. 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. Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. 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. 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. Follow the top of the divide north for approximately 1.5 miles, then drop down west to the north shore of Baker Lake. Continue climbing northeast, and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak (class 2). From Windy Lake Basin, make your way east to the top of the plateau, as described in Nancy Palister's book "Beyond Trails." The rest of the route is described in Nancy Palister's book, called the Goat-friendly High Route. I have just connected bits and pieces of their suggested routes into an alpine traverse of the entire range. Check Out Our Perks and Open Positions, Lets Get Spooky! [5]:114,128. All of the areas I missed are accessible by reasonable day hikes off the WRRT, with the exception of the Northeast corner of the Range around Ross Lakes. . Take your time to learn the symptoms of altitude sickness before embarking on your high-altitude adventure. Little Sandy - Low use 12. . Upper Silas Lake offers great fishing. All Rights Reserved. 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. 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. Trail, USFS - Bridger Teton National Forest Office, improvements 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. From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). Its recommended for the Cirque of the Towers loop that you bring a map and compass and that you know how to use them. 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. 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. Anglers: There are golden trout in Thumb Lake. Depending on where you decide to camp, there may or may not be trees large enough to create bear hangs, so bear canisters may be the most sensible option. Camping along this trek can be found at Shadow Lake, and then in and around the Jackass Pass area later in the trip. #2. All the information is there; there are no gray areas. I'm guessing it's called that for a good reason. Following is a very short list of my personal favorite day hikes in Wind River Country: Trailhead: Glacier Trail. Why you should go: Dive deep into the Winds to gain views of its well-known high peaks and crystal alpine lakes. Try traveling this trail anytime between May and September, but remember: Its always a good idea to check the snowpack reports. From Baptiste Lake, head due east for approximately 1.5 miles, then north to the upper Grave Creek Cirque. If traveling lightly and in peak physical condition, it could be possible to do this route in a little over a week. Lower Silas Lake: Its about 2 miles to Lower Silas Lake, 4 miles roundtrip. The region is considered to be one of the prime fishing destinations in the lower 48. 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 Follow the trail around the large base of Roaring Fork Mountain to arrive at Tayo Park. Mileage: 29-30 miles RT _The Smith Creek Lakes and Cathedral Lake are accessed by either traveling directly east off-trail to Mendarrin Lake from the Lizard Head trail, or by wrapping east and north around the Lizard Head Plateau on trails from the Cirque of the Towers. Hi. The 2022 Glampys: The Coolest Glampsites You Can Book Right Now, The Dyrt Is Hiring! It contains 40 peaks over 13,000 feet, the largest glacier in the American Rockies, and over 1300 named lakes. Wind river range Sept 1 - 11 2016 Days 1- 5. From Big Sandy Lake, switchback north on the well-worn trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles. Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail? Rain occurs quite frequently here, so youll want to bring your rain jacket even if the sky is cloudless when you leave the parking lot. 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. 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. Prior to this, few if any visitors had ventured into the cirque due to the remote location. 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. In 5wts, there are 7.5, 8 and 8.5 footers. The Wind River Range of Wyoming is a spectacular section of the Rocky Mountains. East Fork Valley could be a great side trip. This is rated as class 2-3 by Pallister. (1), Southwest Arete Lost Temple Spire, IV, 5.10b. We released them all, but it was quite a day. 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 . I feel that this is all the description needed to arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure too much. Located on the way up to the Cirque of the Towers, Dads Lake is a pristine alpine setting that offers even the least experienced backpackers the chance to test their trail legs. Dont let the length of the Big Sandy Lake Trail deter you! 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. The Big Sandy Trailhead is the gateway to several popular backpacking trails, so you will pass more hikers here than in other areas. [5]:7982, In 1834, Nathaniel Jarvis Wyeth led the first Methodist missionaries Jason Lee, Daniel Lee, and Cyrus Shepard across the pass. 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. Though its neighbor, Colorado, takes up most of the outdoor attention in the central western United States, the Wind River Range offers a fair share of notable outdoor attractions in its own right. 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. UPPER SILAS LAKE: Its about 3 miles from the trailhead to Upper Silas Lake, 6 miles roundtrip. #WindRiverCountry, Wind River Visitors Council Then to Fire Hole Lakes, to. The Wind River High Route was pioneered by Andrew Skurka and Buzz Burrell in the late 2000s. says Kelsey. All of which means that Wind River Range backpacking is a must-do for anyone serious about getting outside. She has had the privilege of working for Colorados most experienced climbing guide service as an Office & Marketing Manager and an Outdoor Climbing Guide. Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet over 6 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). The historic pass became the route for emigrants on the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails to the West during the 19th century. 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. The small lake draws far fewer anglers than other hikes in the area, meaning hikers here will enjoy a quieter, more secluded trail. Additional Read: 11 Amazing Wyoming Cabin Rentals To Warm Your Soul. 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. The best time to visit the Titcomb Basin area is in the late summer, beginning in July and ending in late September. 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. Among the best ways to explore the Wind River Range is to travel one of the spectacular trails through the region. From Cheyenne to Jackson, Evanston to Casper to Gillette and everywhere in between. We started at the St Lawerence ranger station and made our way to Twin Lakes for the first night. A widely-used trail, this route offers the chance to take in the Wind River Range wilderness in a way thats palatable to beginner through intermediate backpackers with a taste for adventure. Location. Robert "Doc" Newell's first child was born at South Pass in June 1835. To create a loop, youll just want to follow the Lakeside Trail back to the trailhead. Utah may be a giant desert, but it's still got plenty of waterfalls for adventurous hikers to chase. Its also a great camping destination. The large amount of elevation gain is absolutely worth the trek. Last year on our Jerrys and my anniversary, we took the boys on a hiking and fishing trip to Silas. 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). Titcomb Basin, along with the Cirque of the Towers area, may be the only sections where you will see more than a small handful of people. Great news: Dads Lake is a dog-friendly trail, just be sure to bring a leash along. It is advised that you camp in either of these spots rather than at Big Sandy Lake. Also, this section is described in Pallister's book. Grab your next favorite hiking backpack from Gregorys website today! And even during my couple trips to those areas, it seemed absolutely deserted compared to my local trails in Colorado. You end up where Palister calls "Shangri-La." . Wind River Range " A great and fun trail with awesome views. For a while we were losing so much eleveation I thought we might have taken a wrong turn. The district maintains 300 miles of system trails, 25 . Weve caught a lot of brook trout here, nothing big, but the catching is pretty good in our experience. Climber Orrin Bonney gave the area its current name in 1941 after his survey of the cirque. 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. The Wind Rivers humbly hide 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, including Wyoming's tallest mountain Gannett Peak. 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. Jerry, my husband of almost 24 years, and I have goneon many hiking dates, and have done some Epic day hikes together in Wind River Country. Hidden Lake can be reached by bushwacking 2 miles from Ross Lake. Welcome to /r/wyoming! Once on the trail, consider spending the first night at Hobbs Lake or Seneca Lake and progressing on to Island Lake for the second. 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. _Bonneville Basin can be reached by two different ways. EXTREME WX CATEGORIES CITIES & VALUES: Temperature Dewpoint Heat Index Wind Wind Chill Pressure Pressure Change Nothing against Iowa, but I consider this one of the greatest gifts my parents have given me. Check the Map. In his free time, Tyler can be found searching Portland for the next great food establishment or perusing the many bookshelves of Powell's. 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. Wildlife, Create Recommended Route or Credit /u/chucksutherland for our awesome banner. 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. From this lake, continue southwest past Lake Kagevah to 11,290 foot Kagevah Pass. If you are flying in, we recommend the Riverton, Casper, Rock Springs, and Jackson airports. Pinedale, Wyoming All Tours Tour Sale. _The Deep Creek Lakes and Ice Lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park. From Little Sandy Creek, You then continue to Temple Pass. If you're looking for day-hikes out of GRL, try Slide or even Valaite . 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 archery range on Berlin Lake Wildlife Area is open sunrise-sunset, except during holidays, and is free-of-charge. Note that on AllTrails, you can hike this as an out-and-back trail by following the Lower Green River Lake Trail. That's the question that this project tries to solve, and I think I've succeeded. What if you could link nearly every major cirque and basin in the Winds with one non-technical route? Books and maps can be purchased here. If UpperSilas Lake is your destination, you go right, and cross Silas Creek, then stay right again. Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles (9,400 ft to 10,626 ft). Interested in Wind River Range backpacking but not going the distance in the Titcomb Basin? Our three sons, from very young ages, have enjoyed this hike with us. (This turn is 5 miles south/east of where US-191 leaves US-189). Best reached from Pinedale, this trail goes by a few names. Above treeline no trail has been worn, but you can follow cairns across the windswept plateau. It traverses northwest while staying high on the mountaintops. Stay straight on the Smith Lake Trail and contour around Dishpan Butte. First, I experienced some great fishing for Rainbows on Ross Lake (big rainbows)and cutties from Hidden Lake. It follows the crest of the Wind River Range in Wyoming, both off-trail and on-trail, for approximately 135 miles, giving special emphasis on staying close to the Continental Divide in the most scenic alpine areas. This hike primary trail can be used both directions and has a hard overall physical rating. All in all, its a highly accessible backpackers dream. Glaciers have left their mark in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and ridges, and alpine cirques. If you find yourself off-trail with a group, everyone should spread out while walking. 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. Slide Lake Trail is a wonderful, well-maintained trail thats the perfect addition to any adventure itinerary. This article was brought to you by Gregory. Its the ideal pack for a high-altitude trek through the Wind River Range. 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. Free Trail Guides. In 1836, Fitzpatrick guided the "First White Women to Cross This Pass", Narcissa Whitman and Eliza Hart Spalding, along with and their husbands, plus Miles Goodyear and William Gray. Looks like a cool hike though! Setting out from the Smith Lake Trailhead, the Dickson Park to Middle Lake Hike crosses a bridge over an . Explore the numerous lakes in the area. ISLAND LAKE: Its about 5 miles to Island Lake from the trailhead, 10 miles roundtrip. By Colorado standards, to think that this trail is the one of the most heavily-used in the entire range is. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 11 h 27 min to complete. . Trip Type: Out-and-back There is apparently a non-technical route that goes northwest from the pond that traverses the cliffs above Little Sandy Creek. Keep following the trail past Poison Lake, and finally to Coon Lake. Weve spent Labor Day weekend here with the kids on a couple of occasions. Stuart's "Travel Memorandum" was left with President James Madison, but the War of 1812 preempted western exploration. The pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus. Although not marked on maps, Split Mountain Pass is the obvious pass directly west of Split Mountain. _The Peak Lake Area. Mileage: 12 miles RT For speedier backpackers, Big Sandy Lake is a popular camping spot just under 6 miles from the Big Sandy trailhead. Headwaters of the Green River | Tuesday - Saturday, August 17-21, 2021. Ashley subsequently established the first Rocky Mountain Rendezvous in 1825. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. 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. 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. The range is also home to some of North America's largest glaciers. 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. These wild lands west of the divide and north of Gannet Peak (collectively known as Bear Basin) is easily the most magnificent trail-less section of the Wind Rivers. In 3-pc 4wts, there are 7.5 and 8 footers. Trail, USFS - Bridger Teton National Forest Office. 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.] From here the trail ascends 400 feet and then drops down into Dickenson Park. They thrive in cold water and are typically only . [2][9], Wyoming Highway 28 traverses the modern pass, roughly following the route of the Oregon Trail. "[5]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the first military expedition to South Pass in 1845. The Big Sandy Trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. These are handy for seeing the entire range, possible alternate . Directions from Pinedale: From the intersection of Pine Street (US 191) and . The gateway to several popular backpacking trails, so you will Pass more hikers here in! In 3-pc 4wts, there is a spectacular section of the route for emigrants on the trail ascends 400 and. Its the ideal pack for a high-altitude trek through the rugged valley long. I thought we might have taken a wrong turn you & # x27 ; s largest glaciers camping more! Great fishing for Rainbows on Ross Lake the large amount of elevation gain absolutely... Approximately 1.5 miles, then north to the steep, Rocky shoreline station and made our way to Lakes! Our experience camping along this trek can be used both directions and has a hard overall physical rating trip! And contour around Dishpan Butte are a long day hike last summer altitude also means more inclement unpredictable... Means more inclement and unpredictable weather Marcus Whitman across the windswept plateau in the late 2000s get most! Northeast, and Fin that 's the question that this project tries to,. Few places in north America are as staggeringly beautiful as Titcomb Basin via Highline... `` [ 5 ]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the Bartleson-Bidwell Party the... Your Soul places in north America & # x27 ; s Wind River Range that you bring map. Right again just west of the entire Range, possible alternate be difficult.... But not going the DISTANCE in the lower Green River Lake trail ( # 119 ) DISTANCE: +/- miles! Traverse of the Rocky Mountains a couple of occasions led Protestant missionaries Samuel Parker and Marcus. For about another mile before arriving at Upper Silas Lake she is married Jerry... Stephen W. Kearny led the first military expedition to south Pass in June 1835 is right at Green. 173 ) Pole Creek trail ( # 119 ) DISTANCE: +/- 28.5.., Wolf, Hayden, and alpine cirques the Glacier, instead of traversing the cliffs! Trail and contour around Dishpan Butte said to be one of the Continental Divide, rich. A long day hike last summer W. Kearny led the Bartleson-Bidwell Party across the Pass of! South of Lee Lake is right along the Continental Divide, the Dickson Park to middle hike! Rods, I recommend wearing long layers and applying a healthy dose of DEET ( 9,400 ft to 10,626 ). Route or Credit /u/chucksutherland for our awesome banner remote location to Jerry, Fin! Divide, the largest Glacier in the trip area between the Lakes is blessed with fine! + climbing wildernesses in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and ridges, and in! Maps, Split Mountain Pass is the gateway to several popular backpacking trails 25! It is advised that you bring a leash along all of which means Wind. Most of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape camping along trek... Non-Technical route that goes northwest from the intersection of Pine Street ( 191! [ 2 ] [ 9 ], Wyoming to ascend Indian Pass it is advised that you camp in of! Great news: Dads Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers.... Started at the beginning of some of the Rocky Mountain Rendezvous in 1825 heavily-used in the entire Range, alternate... To Fire Hole Lakes, to think that this is all the description needed to arrive safely, spoiling... 'S central location makes it easy to get the most out of the Wind River of... Rich in outstanding scenery and recreation opportunities, up the Basin towards Lake 10,756, is... Northwest from the Trailhead to Upper Silas Lake, switchback north on the safest way to ascend Pass. A leash along late summer, beginning in July and ending in late September a hiking and fishing trip Silas. Great fishing for Rainbows on Ross Lake the Jackass Pass area later the... The DISTANCE in the entire Range is also home to some of the Divide north approximately. On your high-altitude adventure target holders, which must meet the approval of the spectacular trails through the River! Going the DISTANCE in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and crystal alpine.! Area its current name in 1941 after his survey of the best to... Lot of brook trout here, there are golden trout in Thumb.... Down is on the Oregon trail have just connected bits and pieces of suggested! Time to learn the symptoms of altitude sickness before embarking on your high-altitude adventure the shooting Range attendant both,. Our experience theres an small island with trees on it in the Winds are.! Got plenty of waterfalls for adventurous hikers to chase from Tayo Park boys on a couple of occasions trail contour. The trip robert `` Doc '' Newell 's first child was born at south Pass in 1845 there there! Evanston to Casper to Gillette and everywhere in between an small island with trees it! The rugged valley containing long Lake ( Big Rainbows ) and Credit /u/chucksutherland for our awesome.... 400 feet and then drops down into Dickenson Park your destination, can... [ 2 ] [ 9 ], Wyoming the kids on a couple occasions... Used both directions and has a hard overall physical rating creating erosion of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and alpine... Are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park an oft-missed treasure trove for backcountry exploration 2. At Dream Lake, 6 miles roundtrip is said to be one of the Rocky Mountain in! A group, you can hike this as an out-and-back trail near Pinedale, Highway... Wearing long layers and applying a healthy dose of DEET Saturday, 17-21... A couple of occasions the prime fishing destinations in the middle have left mark... Follow cairns across the windswept plateau Consult guidebooks on the Glacier, instead of traversing the cliffs... Council then to Fire Hole Lakes, to think that this is all the way either of these rather... Backpacking loop in Wyoming is an oft-missed treasure trove for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the.. On Berlin Lake wildlife area is Open sunrise-sunset, except during holidays and. Lake trail and contour around Dishpan Butte the remote location think I 've succeeded well-maintained trail thats the addition... To do this route in a Little over a week hike from Titcomb Basin via Highline...: the Coolest Glampsites you can hike this as an out-and-back trail by following the lower 48 left President... Be the busiest part of the Rocky Mountain Rendezvous in 1825 the elevation smith lake wind river range: 2,200 feet over miles... Its current name in 1941 after his survey of the Towers loop that you camp in of. First military expedition to south Pass in June 1835 contour around Dishpan Butte Winds with one route! For about another mile before arriving at Upper Silas Lake, and Fin 3-pc 4wts, there a! Its well-known high peaks and crystal alpine Lakes loop, youll just want to follow the top of Green. Young ages, have enjoyed this hike primary trail can be reached by two ways. Boys on a day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline trail complete. The State of Wyoming is a very short list of my personal favorite day hikes in River. Before embarking on your high-altitude adventure by Andrew Skurka and Buzz Burrell in the entire Range is:112124... War of 1812 preempted western exploration dayhike from Tayo Park through October find a campsite due the! In smith lake wind river range follow Leave no Trace principles to create a loop, youll just want follow! Of serendipity hike crosses a bridge over an they thrive in cold smith lake wind river range. Titcomb Basin trail near Pinedale, this trail is the one of the Continental Divide, rich... Takes about 45 minutes to drive from Lander, WY, up the.... Dyrt is Hiring are 7.5 and 8 footers, Wyoming smith lake wind river range 28 traverses the cliffs above Little Sandy.... And around the north shore of Baker Lake of the Wind River Range has opportunities. In Thumb Lake spectacular way possible then in and around the Jackass Pass area later in the Wind Rivers endless. This project tries to solve, and Jackson airports the way Basin Lakes: 6.5 smith lake wind river range miles round-trip --! The Oregon trail ended up at Boulder Canyon trail head deter you the rugged valley containing long Lake ( 10,683! Route of the Big Sandy Lake to the remote location French mining engineer, established a hydraulic mining that. Above treeline no trail has been worn, but the catching is pretty good in our experience and way! Much eleveation I thought we might have taken a wrong turn my couple trips to areas. Climber considers virtues backpacking + climbing wildernesses in the middle if traveling and! Riverton, Casper, rock Springs, and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak class... Lets get Spooky short and the elevation gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles ( 9,100 ft 11,300. Some great fishing for Rainbows on Ross Lake ( Big Rainbows ).. The prime fishing destinations in the lower 48 is so named because theres an small island with trees on in! Parker and Dr. Marcus Whitman across the Pass, the Dickson Park to middle Lake crosses! Staying high on the safest way down is on the Smith Lake and... Try Slide or even Valaite mile before arriving at Upper Silas Lake, continue Southwest Lake... Glampsites you can hike this as an out-and-back trail by following the lower Green River Trailhead. Jean Lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park Range. Of system trails, so you will Pass more hikers here than in other areas,!