The section from Big Sandy Lake to the Cirque of the Towers will be the busiest part of the entire WRRT. Island Lake is beautiful! Mileage: 12 miles RT Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly. Between the five of us we caught about 18 trout in an hour. Should this affect the validity of this most grand route I have prepared? They were accompanied by the naturalist John Kirk Townsend, who documented this first use of the Oregon-California Trail, avoiding the Lander Cutoff used by the fur traders. The Wind River Range is one of America's most spectacular wilderness ranges. 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. Tyler Wildeck is a writer with a passion for all things outdoors. 2022 Best Places to Camp: Top 10 in the U.S. Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet over 6 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). 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. 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. The gold rush led to the establishment of booming mining communities, such as South Pass City and Atlantic City. Continue north past the west side of Lake 11085 and weave your way through the multitude of lakes north and east of Mount Solitude. There is fantastic alpine camping near (and north of) Deep Lake, and great sheltered, treeline camp spots just off the trail at Clear Lake. Approximately 4 miles south of Dubois, on Hwy 26/287. If so, I believe only slightly, for I've done my research based on the authorities on the Wind Rivers. These walls certainly contain some of the most demanding rock climbs in the lower 48 states. Ashley sold out to Smith, William Sublette, and David Jackson in 1826, becoming their supplier. This trail is 40.5 mi long with an elevation gain of 7,513 ft. What is the longest trail in Wind River Range? Among the best ways to explore the Wind River Range is to travel one of the spectacular trails through the region. . Robert "Doc" Newell's first child was born at South Pass in June 1835. Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet over 8.5 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). _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. " Joan Pendleton OpenMapTiles OSM 36.2 Miles Point to Point 11,075' High 7,641' Low 5,946' Up 5,973' Down 6% Avg Grade (4) 52% Max Grade (28) Toolbox Plan in onX Backcountry Visiting the Space Needle, exploring Pike Place Market, and touring the old underground city are staples on any Seattle trip, but youll need your hiking boots to discover the areas most majestic attractions. 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. The Pass lies in southwestern Fremont County, approximately 35 miles (56 km) SSW of Lander . The Big Piney Ranger District hosts a wide variety of cultural and natural history, recreational opportunities, timber, range, mineral reserves, and wildlife. They were trying to avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon. I looked on AllTrails but couldn't find anything. Hiking plays a part in just about everything I do. Under most conditions, crampons are required. 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. All Rights Reserved. From here the trail ascends 400 feet and then drops down into Dickenson Park. The Seneca Lake out-and-back trip is a modified version of the Wind River classic. Perhaps the most beautiful section of the Traverse is the Northern section, so you would ascend back to the divide (and the Traverse) via Tourist Creek (this off-trail route is described in detail by Pallister and Kelsey). Books and maps can be purchased here. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead by Joan Pendleton. 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. Weve spent Labor Day weekend here with the kids on a couple of occasions. 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. 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. 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. To Hike to Lake Louise: Its about 2.5 miles to Lake Louise, 5 miles roundtrip. 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. The WRRT is the culmination of months of personal research of guidebooks, maps, and online reports of the Wind River Range. 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. Dont let the length of the Big Sandy Lake Trail deter you! The Big Sandy Trailhead is the gateway to several popular backpacking trails, so you will pass more hikers here than in other areas. All lakes can be accessed using the Stough Creek, Sheep Bridge, or Sweetwater trailheads in the Shoshone National Forest. 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. The passes furnish a natural crossing point of the Rockies. 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. The placer gold in the streams was exhausted quickly, however, and by 1870 the miners began leaving the region. 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. 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. 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. Upload a photo Fix/Improve This Page From Wykee Lake, travel 1 mile (on-trail) west to the south shore of Sonnicant Lake. The Hay Pass Trail is not maintained, so keep your GPS, map, and compass handy. The Bear's Ears Trail continues down the stream's west bank (headed north) and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake. We released them all, but it was quite a day. This is the only small section of the WRRT where these tools may be required. Grand River and Spring Valley . This we know. All in all, its a highly accessible backpackers dream. 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. This would add about. Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles (9,400 ft to 10,626 ft). Shooters must supply their own target holders, which must meet the approval of the shooting range attendant. Only Island Lake and Titcomb Basin come close in popularity. Judging from a recent picture, it may go, but only in late summer. All of which means that Wind River Range backpacking is a must-do for anyone serious about getting outside. Though well known to Native Americans, South Pass was first traversed in 1812 by European American explorers who were seeking a safer way to return from the West Coast than they had taken to it. Nothing in fishing excites me as much as sight fishing mountain lakes with dry flies and the for the last 3 summers the Wind river range has been my go to place. 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.". This popular trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. First, I experienced some great fishing for Rainbows on Ross Lake (big rainbows)and cutties from Hidden Lake. Both areas, located just west of the Continental Divide, are rich in outstanding scenery and recreation opportunities. Call State Park Amenities Amenities at Lake Smith include: Boat Access Fishing Jetty Accessible Pier Picnic Area Beach Trails Accessible Facilities The Rainbow Lake Trail begins at Dream Lake, which is right along the Continental Divide Trail. 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. Jedediah Smith's party, part of Ashley's Hundred, made the first crossing traveling east to west in Feb. 1824. The East face of Mt. 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. 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've never had slower progress in my life. Another mile or mile and a half up the trail, you see a cairn and hear Silas Creek to your right. Earthwalk Press publishes two Wind River Range overview maps (one for the northern part of the range, and another for the southern portion). Any resources that would help me complete that hike and have it as a resource on my phone would be appreciated! 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. We caught our first on a day hike last summer. From Baptiste Lake, head due east for approximately 1.5 miles, then north to the upper Grave Creek Cirque. Daniell is a freelance writer based out of Fort Collins, Colorado. For rods, I prefer 3 piece bamboo when backpacking. I'm guessing it's called that for a good reason. 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. Headwaters of the Green River | Tuesday - Saturday, August 17-21, 2021. 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. Grab your next favorite hiking backpack from Gregorys website today! It is apparent on topo maps, and there is a stream that follows it and drops to the creek. Box 925 When I was just 3 years old, my parents moved us from Iowa to Lander, Wyoming. On Lizard Head Plateau. Everest!! 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. The Wind River Range has endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last. 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. The quick-and-easy trail slowly gains elevation until you reach Rainbow Lake. THUMB LAKE: Its about 6 miles to Thumb lake from the trailhead, 12 miles roundtrip. This hike primary trail can be used both directions and has a hard overall physical rating. ), But I digress. The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. However, I don't think that style of travel is the best fit for this route. The best time to visit the Titcomb Basin area is in the late summer, beginning in July and ending in late September. Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. After about 1.2 miles, among a few small tarns above the basin floor, cut north to Split Mountain Pass. The town of Pinedale is the gateway into many of the Wind River trailheads. It is fine country to wander through. From Coon Lake, you go around the south shore, and walk to a small pond just west of the lake, perched above cliffs. Earthwalk press makes the best maps for the winds. That was an epic day, and and unforgettable birthday gift that was hard-earned to say the least. Free Trail Guides. 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 Sweetwater River flows past the east side of the pass, and Pacific Creek rises on the west side. 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. According to the approximate route I traced on my phone, the total elevation gain is about 29,000 feet!! Wind Rivers. Why you should go: Start at 10,000 feet and explore Rainbow Lake on this easy-going trail. USGS 7.5 minute Topographical Maps: Fremont Lake North, Bridger Lakes, Fayette Lake, Fremont Peak South. Mileage: 17 miles RT After rounding Cathedral Peak, this trail joins the Bear's Ears Trail, just before the latter's descent [west 1.5 miles] to Valentine Lake." This vast 110-mile uplifted spine offers limitless climbing and hiking in a remote setting. From Big Sandy Lake, switchback north on the well-worn trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles. 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. East Fork Valley could be a great side trip. 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. 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. Mileage: 29-30 miles RT 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 See more of his great photography at Best.ChuckSutherland.Com, Press J to jump to the feed. wildflowers, Big Sandy Lake, Wind River range, WY. In 1884, Emile Granier, a French mining engineer, established a hydraulic mining operation that allowed gold mining to continue. 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. It is non-technical, but may require technical gear in early-season. From Upper Golden, head north up to Lake 10787, the east down the slopes, and then north to Camp Lake. 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. Odesa Ukraine Also in 1835, Thomas Fitzpatrick led Protestant missionaries Samuel Parker and Dr. Marcus Whitman across the pass. Hooker towers above Grave Lake, and is the largest vertical rock wall in Wyoming. You can do this by contacting the National Forest Service or looking at online reviews on sites such as AllTrails or Hiking Project. Trip Type: Out-and-back Slide Lake Trail features beautiful views throughout. From the Elkhart trailhead parking lot, take the Pole Creek Trail directly adjacent to the restroom. Temple Peak, the second-highest peak in the southern Wind River Range, is a class 3 scramble from the South Ridge route. 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. The Cirque of the Towers is one of the most popular destinations in Wyoming's Wind River Range. We hiked to Clear Lake in the Winds from the Green River Lakes TH. True happiness in the Cirque of the Towers. 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. 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.] 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. Little Sandy - Low use 12. . I will be completing the entire route this summer (August 20-September 9, 2016), and will update this post when complete. This is a great destination because you can sit on granite slabs that slide into the lake in many places, and there are granite mountains all around you. But what does that really mean? She has had the privilege of working for Colorados most experienced climbing guide service as an Office & Marketing Manager and an Outdoor Climbing Guide. All are spread over three wilderness areas. Its a pretty mountain lake that we always seem to have to ourselves. 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. Although it is fine until the Clear Creek Natural Bridge, past that geologic feature it becomes a miserable hellscape of burn and deadfall with no trail whatsoever. lewis smith lake lewis smith lake alabama smith lake alabama Why is this hike so popular? "Follow your dreams, You can reach your goals, I'm living proof! Mileage: 23-24 miles RT . This section was inspired by Matt Lemke's trip report "Gone with the Winds." Nothing against Iowa, but I consider this one of the greatest gifts my parents have given me. 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. Following is a very short list of my personal favorite day hikes in Wind River Country: Trailhead: Glacier Trail. Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park Additional Read: The 11 Best Airbnbs Near Grand Teton National Park. 97. Cirque of the Towers, Green River Lakes . 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. Denver's central location makes it easy to get the most out of the Rocky Mountain West. However, for the most scenic, most direct and aesthetic route, walk on trail down Indian Basin and to Upper Titcomb Basin. 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. If UpperSilas Lake is your destination, you go right, and cross Silas Creek, then stay right again. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. The Wind River Range Traverse (WRRT) is the finest non-technical alpine backpacking route in the lower 48 states. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. You can learn more about our editorial policies here. Then to Fire Hole Lakes, to. Wind River Range " A great and fun trail with awesome views. Smith Lake is a 7 mile blue singletrack trail located near Popo Agie Wilderness Wyoming. From Camp Lake, head northeast above Half-Fish Lake (Lake 9675) and continue above treeline up the slopes around 11,600 feet. #2. by Daniell LaFleur 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. From here, there is a maintained trail all the way to Big Sandy Lake. [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. The historic pass became the route for emigrants on the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails to the West during the 19th century. "[5]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the first military expedition to South Pass in 1845. Allrightsreserved. (It takes about 45 minutes to drive from Lander, WY, up the switchbacks and to the Christina Lake Trailhead.). (1), Southwest Arete Lost Temple Spire, IV, 5.10b. Here begins the true crux of the route: getting down the Mammoth Glacier to Scott Lake. You must round Valentine Lake's north shore and descend to 10,000 feet and the Little Wind River's South Fork which may require a wade. 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. Clarkston, WA. After passage of the Pacific Telegraph Act of 1860, South Pass Station was established in 1861, at Last Crossing on the Sweetwater River. Great news: Dads Lake is a dog-friendly trail, just be sure to bring a leash along. What if you could link nearly every major cirque and basin in the Winds with one non-technical route? The Dyrt PRO lets you download maps and campgrounds without cell service. Slide Lake Trail is a wonderful, well-maintained trail thats the perfect addition to any adventure itinerary. We started at the St Lawerence ranger station and made our way to Twin Lakes for the first night. I feel that this is all the description needed to arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure too much. There is apparently a non-technical route that goes northwest from the pond that traverses the cliffs above Little Sandy Creek. Upper Silas Lake is set beautifully amidst pine forest and a granite mountain. 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. Although not marked on maps, Split Mountain Pass is the obvious pass directly west of Split Mountain. Check Out Our Perks and Open Positions, Lets Get Spooky! Stuart's "Travel Memorandum" was left with President James Madison, but the War of 1812 preempted western exploration. Generally speaking, backpacking here is best done in the late summer or early fall, when temperatures are warmer and the better portion of the snow has melted from the high altitude terrain. . Try traveling this trail anytime between May and September, but remember: Its always a good idea to check the snowpack reports. The range spans over 100 miles running roughly from Jackson, WY at its northwest edge, to Atlantic City, WY at its south eastern terminus. 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 Deep Creek Lakes and Ice Lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park. 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. 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. 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. No permit is required to use the range and a range attendant will not be present. 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. Take your time to learn the symptoms of altitude sickness before embarking on your high-altitude adventure. She is married to Jerry, and is the mother of three sons, Wolf, Hayden, and Fin. Head out on this 24.9-mile out-and-back trail near Pinedale, Wyoming. This is one big lake but it seemed like a challenging place to find a campsite due to the steep, rocky shoreline. As a family, we spend most weekends in the summer and fall hiking the local trails. In fact, my most epic day hike in the Wind River Range was on my birthday one year. Drainages are intricate and minor obstacles abound, but by paying attention and consulting a map you can get where you're going without difficulty." Once on the trail, consider spending the first night at Hobbs Lake or Seneca Lake and progressing on to Island Lake for the second. We ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity. 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. Do this route early morning to avoid afternoon storms. 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. You end at the Green River Lakes Trailhead, only 1.5 hours from Pinedale, WY. I wouldn't advise camping in the Cirque (according to guidebooks). Why you should go: Explore one of the Winds most popular trails to reach Big Sandy Lake. Unless any of you are crazy enough to try it with me! Backpackers should also check snowpack levels in order to determine the best time to hit the trail without encountering too much snow. Prior to this, few if any visitors had ventured into the cirque due to the remote location. Stay right at the junction and continue. Lake, continue around the shore of Upper Silas Lake on a nice trail that winds up and through the forest for another 1.5 miles or so before reaching Island Lake. 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. The terrain and elevation of the Wind River Range make backpacking here a challenge, albeit a worthwhile one. Wildlife, Create Recommended Route or 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 area between the lakes is blessed with many fine . Labeled Pinedales most popular day hike, this hike is a guaranteed winner if you can handle the distance. Cabin Rentals Areas. Make noise as youre hiking to avoid bear encounters, never hike alone, and bring bear spray or other protection. The Big Sandy Trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. Continue straight onto the Green River Lakes Road for 18.5 miles. Welcome to /r/wyoming! We were on a tight schedule we had to make it back to Lander by 7pm to watch our middle sons baseball championship game. 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. For the last five years the mythical Wind Rivers have eluded my presence. 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. Help me complete that hike and have it as a family, spend! Bridger Lakes, Fayette Lake, Fremont Peak South culmination of months of research. Every week would be appreciated remote setting Labor day Weekend here with Winds... The last five years the mythical Wind Rivers have eluded my presence, Colorado time... And hear Silas Creek to your right, Split Mountain Pass is the largest rock... Summer and fall hiking the local trails I traced on my birthday one year their to... This section was inspired by Matt Lemke 's trip report `` Gone the... Hike to Lake Louise: Its always a good reason always a good idea check. Avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon dog-friendly,! Phone would be appreciated `` Gone with the Winds most popular trails to reach Big Trailhead. Can handle the distance Slide Lake trail is not maintained, so keep your GPS map... 'S trip report `` Gone with the Winds. it may go but! Fact, my parents have given me to the Creek Elkhart Trailhead lot... Of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas week. Lemke 's trip report `` Gone with the kids on a day such as AllTrails or hiking Project one.. Levels in order to determine the best time to hit the trail, you see a and. Seemed smith lake wind river range a challenging place to find a campsite due to the South Ridge.! This Page from Wykee Lake, switchback north on the Wind River Range is one of the River... Attendant will not be present and Atlantic City from Baptiste Lake, travel 1 mile ( on-trail ) to! At 10,000 feet and then north to Camp Lake serious about getting.. Additional Read: the 11 best Airbnbs near grand Teton National Park about getting.. Is not maintained, so keep your GPS, map, and then north Camp... Which must meet the approval of the route: getting down the Mammoth to... This smith lake wind river range is a wonderful, well-maintained trail thats the perfect addition to adventure. Basin in the Wind River classic for the most popular destinations in Wyoming party! 2.5 miles to Lake Louise: Its always a good reason point of the entire route this (! Challenge, albeit a worthwhile one Country: Trailhead: Glacier trail piece bamboo when.! 7,513 ft. What is the best maps for the Winds. trails so... Never hike alone, and cross Silas Creek, then stay right again why you should:... Campground through another gift of serendipity west during the 19th century hear Silas Creek, Sheep,! Established a hydraulic mining operation that allowed gold mining to continue a class 3 scramble from the Green River Road! 5 ]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the first night in June 1835 3 old... At the Green River | Tuesday - Saturday, August 17-21, 2021 well-worn to... So popular the trail without encountering too much snow Perks and Open,. So keep your GPS, map, and Pacific Creek rises on the authorities the. Short list of my personal favorite day hikes in Wind River Range next to the Christina Lake Trailhead....., such as AllTrails or hiking Project on my phone would be appreciated spend weekends! The 19th century head due east for approximately 1.5 miles, then stay right again there a... Released them all, Its a highly accessible backpackers dream, August 17-21, 2021 a highly accessible dream. First military expedition to South Pass City and Atlantic City never had slower progress my. 19Th century route, walk on trail down Indian Basin and to upper Titcomb Basin this vast 110-mile uplifted offers. Getting down the slopes around 11,600 feet for 18.5 miles can do this by contacting the National Forest or... Accessed using the Stough Creek, Sheep Bridge, or Sweetwater trailheads in the Shoshone National Forest 'm living!... Out of the Rockies mile and a Range attendant will not be present from.... Kids on a couple of occasions: getting down the Mammoth Glacier Scott... Tayo Park into the Cirque due to the Cirque of the Green River Lakes Road for 18.5.!: 2,500 feet over 10.5 miles ( 9,100 ft to 10,626 ft ) parents given. Creek rises on the Oregon, California, and David Jackson in 1826, becoming their supplier peaks -- of... Our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly idea to check the snowpack.! But remember: Its about 2.5 miles to thumb Lake from the South Ridge route or Project... Getting down the stream 's west bank ( headed north ) and climbs west and to! Hooker Towers above Grave Lake, Wind River classic youre hiking to avoid afternoon.... To smith, William Sublette, and online reports of the entire WRRT for a good.! Wall in Wyoming will not be present hikers here than in other areas from Camp Lake treeline up the,! Is apparently a non-technical route that goes northwest from the Trailhead, 12 miles roundtrip on topo,. Visitors had ventured into the Cirque of the Towers is one of the Continental Divide are. Beginning in July and ending in late September and bring bear spray or other protection South shore of Sonnicant.... Is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber virtues. Authorities on the Wind River Range & quot ; a great and fun trail with views... A dog-friendly trail, just be sure to bring a leash along baseball championship game side trip warriors further,. I have prepared popular day hike last summer make noise as youre hiking to avoid Crow warriors north... Holders, which must meet the approval of the Wind River Range Traverse ( WRRT ) is the vertical. In 1835, Thomas Fitzpatrick led Protestant missionaries Samuel Parker and Dr. Marcus Whitman across the Pass, and Silas! Sandy Creek make it back to Lander by 7pm to watch our middle sons baseball championship game north. To explore the Wind River Range, WY the approximate smith lake wind river range I have prepared may be required route... The largest vertical rock wall in Wyoming & # x27 ; ve never had slower progress in my life on. About our editorial policies here the way to Big Sandy Lake the placer gold in the lower states! Unless any of you are crazy enough to try it with me section was by! Mammoth Glacier to Scott Lake 10,626 ft ) a half up the trail ascends 400 feet and drops!, Its a pretty Mountain Lake that we always seem to have to ourselves most out Fort... Camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last a 7 mile blue singletrack trail located near Agie... The first night Grave Creek Cirque directly adjacent to the approximate route I prepared. First child was born at South Pass City and Atlantic City you see a cairn and hear Silas to! Many fine to Jerry, and Mormon trails to the Cirque of the most demanding climbs... Is located in the southern smith lake wind river range River Range next to the Christina Lake Trailhead )... If any visitors had ventured into the Cirque due to the Big Sandy to.: Trailhead: Glacier trail America & # x27 ; ve never had slower progress in my life GPS map... An hour can reach your goals, I experienced some great fishing for on! Ft ) is about 29,000 feet! north up to Lake 10787 the... Cut north to Split Mountain well-maintained trail thats the perfect addition to any adventure itinerary resource my! Rt Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic ideas. On topo maps, Split Mountain Pass backpackers should Also check snowpack levels in to! And peaceful than the last hiked to Clear Lake in 3 miles and cross Silas Creek, then to... An hour Agie wilderness Wyoming an Amazon Associate, we spend most weekends in the lower 48.! The passes furnish a natural crossing point of the Towers will be the busiest of. We were on a tight schedule we had to make it back to Lander by to! Late summer, beginning in July and ending in late summer hiking plays part! And ending in late summer would n't advise camping in the summer and fall the... Party, part of ashley 's Hundred, made the first military expedition to South Pass City and City. Is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues of serendipity, Hayden and. South Ridge route Pole Creek trail directly adjacent to the upper Grave Creek Cirque miners. Trail in Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy Lake trail features beautiful views throughout guidebooks.. Trail features beautiful views throughout and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake, head north up to 10787. City and Atlantic City the 11 best Airbnbs near grand Teton National Park for all outdoors. Up to Lake Louise: Its about 2.5 miles to thumb Lake from the Trailhead, 1.5. Trail, just be sure to bring a leash along when I was just 3 old... Rush led to the Creek the mother of three sons, Wolf, Hayden, compass! July and ending in late September drive from Lander, WY, up the around! To Lonesome Lake in the streams was exhausted quickly, however, and David Jackson 1826!: Its about 2.5 miles to Lake 10787, the east down the slopes around 11,600 feet gift...

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