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.". Justin Glass at a small tarn in the upper valley of Middle Fork Lake on the Wind River High Route, Wyoming. Prior to this, few if any visitors had ventured into the cirque due to the remote location. This vast 110-mile uplifted spine offers limitless climbing and hiking in a remote setting. And even during my couple trips to those areas, it seemed absolutely deserted compared to my local trails in Colorado. From this saddle, both East Temple and Temple Peaks are worthwhile side trips. Parents refers to a larger category under which an object falls. Why is this hike so popular? Desolation Lake (Lake 11478 on maps) at the head of the basin is said to be spectacular. An extra day is advised to explore the multitude of lakes around the Brown Cliffs here. 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. . 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. 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. 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. The Big Sandy Trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. Upper Silas Lake is set beautifully amidst pine forest and a granite mountain. The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. The biggest trout - in the 25- to 27-inch range were in relatively deep water near the outlet, but those were the wiliest . Seneca Lake is right at the beginning of some of the most spectacular high alpine climbing and backpacking routes. The archery range on Berlin Lake Wildlife Area is open sunrise-sunset, except during holidays, and is free-of-charge. Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly. The Cirque of the Towers is one of the most popular destinations in Wyoming's Wind River Range. Above treeline no trail has been worn, but you can follow cairns across the windswept plateau. When approaching from Temple Pass, avoid descending to Lake 10,839 by a messy traverse." 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. I think most people pass right by this lake, enroute to Upper Silas Lake. It was spectacular. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead If you find yourself off-trail with a group, everyone should spread out while walking. 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. 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. 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. From Grave Lake by taking the Hailey Pass trail west to Pyramid Lake, then off-trail north up the East Fork Valley. Go south up the glacier to the top of Indian Pass. 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. I will be completing the entire route this summer (August 20-September 9, 2016), and will update this post when complete. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. Slide Lake Trail is a wonderful, well-maintained trail thats the perfect addition to any adventure itinerary. First, up near Forks Lakes, where we did some backcountry hiking, and most recently near Boulder Lake, where we finally got some good fishing, and an unexpected wildfire. A dazzling Wind River Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell. The route traverses glaciers, boulderfields, alpine . Thumb Lake is just a mile or so above Island Lake, and its worth the extra effort to see it. You end up where Palister calls "Shangri-La." 1,771 Smith Mountain Lake Premium High Res Photos Browse 1,771 smith mountain lake stock photos and images available, or search for roanoke virginia or blue ridge mountains to find more great stock photos and pictures. If traveling lightly and in peak physical condition, it could be possible to do this route in a little over a week. https://youtu.be/aeQ61IH9fv4A six day solo backpacking loop in Wyoming's Wind River Range starting at Boulder Canyon trail head. wildflowers, Big Sandy Lake, Wind River range, WY. Additional Read: 11 Amazing Wyoming Cabin Rentals To Warm Your Soul. As a family, we spend most weekends in the summer and fall hiking the local trails. Best reached from Pinedale, this trail goes by a few names. Trip Type: Out-and-back The section from Big Sandy Lake to the Cirque of the Towers will be the busiest part of the entire WRRT. The Wind River Range is home to over 1,500 immaculate alpine lakes. Big Sandy - High use 11. From Upper Golden, head north up to Lake 10787, the east down the slopes, and then north to Camp Lake. Gold mining was revived in nearby Rock Creek in the 1930s. Under most conditions, crampons are required. Drainages are intricate and minor obstacles abound, but by paying attention and consulting a map you can get where you're going without difficulty." Cirque of the Towers, Green River Lakes . Following the partly maintained Christina Pass Trail starting east of the trailhead at Sweetwater Guard Station (not at the end of the 2-mile dirt road to the normal Sweetwater Gap TH), you hike approximately 3 miles to the intersection with the North Fork of Blair Creek. But what does that really mean? Overall, pack more water than you think youll need, and take frequent breaks to prevent exhaustion and advanced altitude sickness. I'm sure someone over here is familiar with Wind River Range hikes and could point me in the right direction. . 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. Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park Check the Map. - Marcel Proust Escape to a Random Place Discover Luzon Lake in Sullivan County, United States and Hilderbrand Lake in Wisconsin, United States . This is the only small section of the WRRT where these tools may be required. Mosquitoes are treacherous here in the Winds during the warmer months. And also from going south from New Fork Lake past Lee Lake. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. For the last five years the mythical Wind Rivers have eluded my presence. From Temple Pass, descend to the east shore of Temple Lake. EXTREME WX CATEGORIES CITIES & VALUES: Temperature Dewpoint Heat Index Wind Wind Chill Pressure Pressure Change 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. Few places in North America are as staggeringly beautiful as Titcomb Basin and Island Lake. Call State Park Amenities Amenities at Lake Smith include: Boat Access Fishing Jetty Accessible Pier Picnic Area Beach Trails Accessible Facilities From the Elkhart trailhead parking lot, take the Pole Creek Trail directly adjacent to . Ashley sold out to Smith, William Sublette, and David Jackson in 1826, becoming their supplier. From Little Sandy Creek, You then continue to Temple Pass. Why you should go: Dive deep into the Winds to gain views of its well-known high peaks and crystal alpine lakes. For those not in the know, The Wind River Range, or "The Winds" as they are called, are one of the most amazing wild places in the lower 48 states. Free Trail Guides. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead Lonesome Lake was the first lake in the Wind Rivers to be deemed unsafe for drinking, and camping is strictly prohibited within 1/4 mile of the lake. You can learn more about our editorial policies here. If you only have time for a single day hike through the Wind River Range, follow the Pole Creek Trail to Photographers Point. All the information is there; there are no gray areas. If you're looking for day-hikes out of GRL, try Slide or even Valaite . Groups must stay under 15 people. If so, I believe only slightly, for I've done my research based on the authorities on the Wind Rivers. The Jean Lakes are a long day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline Trail. Pole Creek Trail is another trail that takes off from the Big Sandy Trailhead and is the gateway to the Cirque of the Towers area. We've spent the last week exploring the Wind River Range around Pinedale, WY. These are handy for seeing the entire range, possible alternate . The trail then follows a loop around the lake before returning back to the original junction. They were trying to avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon. Approximately 4 miles south of Dubois, on Hwy 26/287. 97. Rainbow Lake is a popular fishing destination, so hikers typically bring along fishing poles to spend a relaxing afternoon on the water. Depending on your experience and relative skill level, the Cirque of the Towers is another staple when it comes to Wind River Range backpacking. 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. 2023WindRiverVisitorsCouncil. Allrightsreserved. The Big Piney Ranger District hosts a wide variety of cultural and natural history, recreational opportunities, timber, range, mineral reserves, and wildlife. This would add about. Island Lake is beautiful! Related objects are relevant to each other in some way, but they don't form a parent/child relationship. 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. Toggle navigationHiking & Walking Home Destinations The historic pass became the route for emigrants on the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails to the West during the 19th century. After nearly 6 miles, turn right onto WY-352 for 25.3 miles. South Pass was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961. These walls certainly contain some of the most demanding rock climbs in the lower 48 states. "Follow your dreams, You can reach your goals, I'm living proof! I wouldn't bet on it, however. The large amount of elevation gain is absolutely worth the trek. Anglers: There are golden trout in Thumb Lake. Almost relentlessly rugged and physically and mentally taxing, with navigational challenges, and mile-for-mile arguably the most jaw-dropping trek through any mountain range in Americaand I've taken many of the very best over the past three decades, including the 10 years I spent as . Camping near Halls Lake or further along at the Golden Lakes (just north of Hay Pass in the next section) would be recommended. I highly recommend checking trail conditions before committing to a trail. sunset, Big Sandy Lake, Wind River range, WY. (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. Pick up all dog waste as well as any human trash. No matter what you call it, this trail is undeniably beautiful. 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. (1), Comments Wind River Mountains Topographic Map - Northern Half by Beartooth Mapping. Dont let the length of the Big Sandy Lake Trail deter you! 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. Dads Lake also has the benefit of being at a slightly lower elevation than some of the classic Wind River Range backpacking trails, so seasonality can be a bit easier to handle. Its worth sharing the trail with more hikers, though, as the dramatic peaks surrounding the Big Sandy Lake Trail will not disappoint! We ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity. 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. According to the approximate route I traced on my phone, the total elevation gain is about 29,000 feet!! 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. From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). 2022 Best Places to Camp: Top 10 in the U.S. Shelli Johnson, owner of Epic Life, is an entrepreneur, life and leadership coach, leadership development facilitator, keynote presenter, writer, adventurer and guide. Why you should go: Explore one of the Winds most popular trails to reach Big Sandy Lake. The Wind River Range is located in western Wyoming, just south of the Tetons and Jackson Hole. The small lake draws far fewer anglers than other hikes in the area, meaning hikers here will enjoy a quieter, more secluded trail. Hi. From the Elkhart trailhead parking lot, take the Pole Creek Trail directly adjacent to the restroom. Visit, or enjoy even a single hike in Wind River Country and youll understand why its such a great gift to live here. Beefcake!" That was an epic day, and and unforgettable birthday gift that was hard-earned to say the least. Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. Tyler Wildeck is a writer with a passion for all things outdoors. Continue northwest up the basin towards Lake 10,756, which is directly south of Hay Pass. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. My name is Shelli Johnson, and I love to hike. 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. Its easy to reach the Lower Green River Lakeside Circuit from Dubois, and youll enjoy stellar views from start to finish on this scenic trail. Judging from a recent picture, it may go, but only in late summer. Explore the World. 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. We hiked to Clear Lake in the Winds from the Green River Lakes TH. As far as camping, it sounds like you could potentially camp anywhere along this section. 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. To be spectacular the original junction high alpine climbing and backpacking routes sunrise-sunset, except during holidays, David. 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