smith lake wind river range

The small lake draws far fewer anglers than other hikes in the area, meaning hikers here will enjoy a quieter, more secluded trail. An extra day is advised to explore the multitude of lakes around the Brown Cliffs here. Neither of the trailheads that I've used to get into the Winds have fishable lakes within a reasonable distance for a day hike, except maybe for someone in really good shape that would consider a poor trail and 5-8 miles each way a day hike. Wildlife is abundant here, and that includes grizzly bears. Sprawled in the shadow of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is the type of city that boasts the best of all worlds. 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 . However, for the most scenic, most direct and aesthetic route, walk on trail down Indian Basin and to Upper Titcomb Basin. The trail begins at the Big Sandy Campground and offers a wide, well-marked walking path up to the lake. I have crafted this route to be the boldest and most challenging trek ever proposed in the Wind Rivers. Its a pretty mountain lake that we always seem to have to ourselves. 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.". From this saddle, both East Temple and Temple Peaks are worthwhile side trips. Feb 6, 2017. You can do this by contacting the National Forest Service or looking at online reviews on sites such as AllTrails or Hiking Project. (It takes about 45 minutes to drive from Lander, WY, up the switchbacks and to the Christina Lake Trailhead.). I'm kind of a Granger fan so the thought of taking 2 of those is something I look forward to. Includes correspondence, Harvey's writing drafts and notes for an unpublished book on the CUP, federal documents, project litigation materials, subject files, news clippings, newsletters, programs . Stay right at the junction and continue. The passes furnish a natural crossing point of the Rockies. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Wind River Range is Washakie Pass Loop to Cirque of the Towers, which has a 4.5 star rating from 31 reviews. _The Deep Creek Lakes and Ice Lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park. Interested in Wind River Range backpacking but not going the distance in the Titcomb Basin? I highly recommend checking trail conditions before committing to a trail. Try traveling this trail anytime between May and September, but remember: Its always a good idea to check the snowpack reports. Two years ago we came back and hiked to the Cirque of the Towers, so this year I thought it . The historic pass became the route for emigrants on the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails to the West during the 19th century. Little Sandy - Low use 12. . Island Lake is so named because theres an small island with trees on it in the middle. Few places in North America are as staggeringly beautiful as Titcomb Basin and Island Lake. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. If you cant plan your trip in September, I recommend wearing long layers and applying a healthy dose of DEET. Wind Rivers. You can learn more about our editorial policies here. 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). True happiness in the Cirque of the Towers. 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. Cirque of the Towers, Green River Lakes . 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. Prior to this, few if any visitors had ventured into the cirque due to the remote location. 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). According to Pallister, the safest way down is on the Glacier, instead of traversing the surrounding cliffs. The Jean Lakes are a long day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline Trail. Camping near Halls Lake or further along at the Golden Lakes (just north of Hay Pass in the next section) would be recommended. If traveling lightly and in peak physical condition, it could be possible to do this route in a little over a week. The trail then follows a loop around the lake before returning back to the original junction. This will avoid creating a new social trail that leads hikers astray. From Big Sandy Lake, switchback north on the well-worn trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles. "[5]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the first military expedition to South Pass in 1845. 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. And they weigh 600 to 1,300 pounds, so if they hit you, it'd be like . Mileage: 17 miles RT Depending on your experience and relative skill level, the Cirque of the Towers is another staple when it comes to Wind River Range backpacking. Dont let the length of the Big Sandy Lake Trail deter you! From the Pole Creek Trail, you will see a trail that diverts and is labeled as Photographers Point. Unless any of you are crazy enough to try it with me! Continue northwest up the basin towards Lake 10,756, which is directly south of Hay Pass. The Big Piney Ranger District hosts a wide variety of cultural and natural history, recreational opportunities, timber, range, mineral reserves, and wildlife. Gold had been discovered in the gulches near the pass as early as 1842. says Kelsey. smith lake alabama 10,470 Smith Lake Premium High Res Photos Browse 10,470 smith lake stock photos and images available, or search for lewis smith lake or lewis smith lake alabama to find more great stock photos and pictures. 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. The trail cuts away from Seneca Lake and drops way, way down. 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. 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. The rest of the route down to Scott Lake is also detailed in Pallister's Book. Beefcake!" The trail leads around the north side of the lake and continues up to Deep Lake about 1.5 miles up the trail. They live in Lander, WY, where they frequently hike in the foothills and mountains of the Wind River Range. Burnt Lake - Low use 8. (1), Southwest Arete Lost Temple Spire, IV, 5.10b. 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. My only experience is in the WRIR roadless area, though. Hooker towers above Grave Lake, and is the largest vertical rock wall in Wyoming. All Rights Reserved. Box 925 When hiking in a group, you should always stay on the trail to avoid creating erosion. Thats another story. Ashley sold out to Smith, William Sublette, and David Jackson in 1826, becoming their supplier. Outside of the Sierras, Wyoming's Wind River Range is home to the West's best golden trout fishing. Clear Lake is a great spot to watch sunrise and sunset, particularly if the winds are calm. From the east end of Grave Lake, follow the trail that goes west along the north shore. Welcome to /r/wyoming! The foreground streaks in from the right front of the canvas, a rocky outcropping with trees, some fallen, and verdant grasses invite the viewer into the painting to take a moment before looking out over the edge of the cliff into the vast wilderness. . "The ridge is most easily gained 0.5 miles from the summit; two couloirs nearer the summit are corniced early in summer and later filled with ice and loose rock. By 1848, 18,487 Americans had crossed the pass, and over 300,000 by 1860. Only the off-trail option is doable as a day hike (shown on a map in Pallister's book). Pinedale, Wyoming South Pass was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961. Related objects are relevant to each other in some way, but they don't form a parent/child relationship. Prepare for your next adventure by downloading maps. Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly. Matthew Dickerson July 18-25. 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. 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. 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. I will be completing the entire route this summer (August 20-September 9, 2016), and will update this post when complete. Its in the name! There is fantastic alpine camping near (and north of) Deep Lake, and great sheltered, treeline camp spots just off the trail at Clear 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. They thrive in cold water and are typically only . The area between the lakes is blessed with many fine . Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail? Its the ideal pack for a high-altitude trek through the Wind River Range. From chill beachside strolls to craggy peakbagging epics, this list has got you covered. by Daniell LaFleur This we know. 97. Between the five of us we caught about 18 trout in an hour. Marms Lake (near Dads Lake), is on one of the more popular treks in,. The Wind Rivers humbly hide 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, including Wyomings tallest mountain Gannett Peak. The East face of Mt. Boulder Lake-High use 9. The small amount of elevation gain makes this trail easy to complete in a day, and the trailhead is easily accessible from Pinedale or Lander. In his 1843 expedition, Fremont was able to determine the elevation of the pass at 7,490 feet above sea level. It contains 449,000 acres of snow-capped mountain peaks, lush vegetation and clear mountain lakes and streams. In 3-pc 4wts, there are 7.5 and 8 footers. Check out our in-depth review of Black Tree Resort, a luxury glamping experience that makes camping comfortable and enjoyable for the entire family. If you only have time for a single day hike through the Wind River Range, follow the Pole Creek Trail to Photographers Point. Check Out Our Perks and Open Positions, Lets Get Spooky! Free Trail Guides. It is unfortunately missed by most traverses of the range. After approximately 2 miles, branch off to the right and ascend for 1 mile to Baptiste Lake. This is the only small section of the WRRT where these tools may be required. The biggest trout - in the 25- to 27-inch range were in relatively deep water near the outlet, but those were the wiliest . We've spent the last week exploring the Wind River Range around Pinedale, WY. You can find directions easily from guidebooks. Historic South Pass, seen from the east looking westward towards, Map of southwestern Wyoming showing location of South Pass at the headwaters of the, U.S. National Register of Historic Places, United States Army Corps of Topographical Engineers, Oregon Buttes, Wyoming, Elevation: 8558 feet, 2608 meters, peakbagger.com, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=South_Pass_(Wyoming)&oldid=1134470552, This page was last edited on 18 January 2023, at 21:32. The Lander Cutoff Route crosses the Continental Divide at the far northwest end of the broad South Pass region, about 25 miles (40km) to the northwest of the South Passes, at an elevation of 8,030 feet (2,450m). They were trying to avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon. The Wind River Range has endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last. Half Moon Lake - Low use 7. Gold mining was revived in nearby Rock Creek in the 1930s. Trail, USFS - Bridger Teton National Forest Office, improvements Beyond the upper lake a use-trail leads to an overlook above the south end of photogenic Wall Lake, set beneath the soaring granite slopes of an unnamed peak to the west. Many short hikes here will lead up to a lake, giving you the chance to bring the fishing pole along and enjoy a few hours of fishing before heading back to the trailhead. The rest of the route is described in Nancy Palister's book, called the Goat-friendly High Route. Trip Type: Loop The placer gold in the streams was exhausted quickly, however, and by 1870 the miners began leaving the region. Seven Nights in the Wind River Range: Visiting the Popo Agie Wilderness of the Shoshone National Forest, and Catching Cutthroat Trout and Brook Trout by the Score. Follow the plateau northwest all the way to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek Basin. Shelli Johnson, owner of Epic Life, is an entrepreneur, life and leadership coach, leadership development facilitator, keynote presenter, writer, adventurer and guide. Additional Read: 12 Best Airbnbs in Wyoming for a Taste of the American West. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. https://youtu.be/aeQ61IH9fv4A six day solo backpacking loop in Wyoming's Wind River Range starting at Boulder Canyon trail head. Climber Orrin Bonney gave the area its current name in 1941 after his survey of the cirque. These are handy for seeing the entire range, possible alternate . From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). The Wind River Range Traverse (WRRT) is the finest non-technical alpine backpacking route in the lower 48 states. If UpperSilas Lake is your destination, you go right, and cross Silas Creek, then stay right again. Odesa Ukraine I think most people pass right by this lake, enroute to Upper Silas Lake. Backpackers should also check snowpack levels in order to determine the best time to hit the trail without encountering too much snow. Trip Type: Out-and-back This popular trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. Wyoming Highway 28 crosses the Continental Divide 2.5 miles (4.0km) to the northwest at elevation 7,550 feet (2,300m), and its crossing is also named South Pass. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. Slide Lake Trail is a wonderful, well-maintained trail thats the perfect addition to any adventure itinerary. 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. #WindRiverCountry, Wind River Visitors Council You'll want to bring your friends and family to experience the sheer quantity (and quality) of scenic, unbeatable camping across Sublette County. 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. The pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus. Once on the trail, consider spending the first night at Hobbs Lake or Seneca Lake and progressing on to Island Lake for the second. Should this affect the validity of this most grand route I have prepared? Trail, USFS - Bridger Teton National Forest Office. To first of the Stough Creek Basin lakes: 6.5 miles/13 miles round-trip. Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. See more of his great photography at Best.ChuckSutherland.Com, Press J to jump to the feed. . Dogs are allowed on National Forest trails as long as they are on leash. 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. Joel Pickens Walker, and his wife Mary Young Walker, made the journey with their four children. From this lake, continue southwest past Lake Kagevah to 11,290 foot Kagevah Pass. Earthwalk Press North Wind River Range. The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. 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. 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. Above treeline no trail has been worn, but you can follow cairns across the windswept plateau. Additional Read: The 11 Best Airbnbs Near Grand Teton National Park. I've never had slower progress in my life. The Seneca Lake out-and-back trip is a modified version of the Wind River classic. Reaching the pass on 8 Aug. 1842, Fremont wrote, "The ascent had been so gradual, that, with all the intimate knowledge possessed by Carson, who had made the country his home for seventeen years, we were obliged to watch very closely to find the place at which we had reached the culminating point." 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. The sight of the Continental Divide towering over the picturesque Dream Lake is fantastic, so plan to spend a few minutes here soaking in the views before you start your adventure. Head out on this 24.9-mile out-and-back trail near Pinedale, Wyoming. Its recommended for the Cirque of the Towers loop that you bring a map and compass and that you know how to use them. Also, this section is described in Pallister's book. Explore the World. You end at the Green River Lakes Trailhead, only 1.5 hours from Pinedale, WY. There's a possible high camp (pictured) on the Lizard Head Plateau overlooking the Cirque. The Rainbow Lake Trail begins at Dream Lake, which is right along the Continental Divide Trail. Mileage: 29-30 miles RT Anglers: There are golden trout in Thumb Lake. Continue west until you get to the drainage of the Knife Point Glacier, your next destination. The Wind River Range extends for more than 100 miles, the crest forming part of the Continental Divide. 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. Go south up the glacier to the top of Indian Pass. You'll touch the east shore of Lonesome Lake, and follow the trail east to Lizard Head Meadows. All lakes can be accessed using the Stough Creek, Sheep Bridge, or Sweetwater trailheads in the Shoshone National Forest. A river, that appears to drop into an unseen . However, I don't think that style of travel is the best fit for this route. Any resources that would help me complete that hike and have it as a resource on my phone would be appreciated! roanoke virginia blue ridge mountains peaks of otter I asked Jerry if for my birthday present he would do Wind River Peak in a day with me. Call 307.438.970 or Email windrivershuttle@gmail.com to Book For point-to-point trips, we recommend we meet you at your take-out point and we shuttle you to your start location. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead Take a left onto Fish Hatchery Road. However, it was not until 1867, when an ore sample was transported to Salt Lake City, that an influx of miners descended into the region. Do this route early morning to avoid afternoon storms. It contains 40 peaks over 13,000 feet, the largest glacier in the American Rockies, and over 1300 named lakes. The route I'm presenting here is meant to be savored, and my recommended time for it is 20 days, including 2 days for weather-related issues. Joe Kelsey describes the first 5.5 miles of this trail as the Lizard Head Trail as follows: "Lizard Head Meadows are an opening along the North Popo Agie 2 miles below Lonesome Lake. Directions from Pinedale: From the intersection of Pine Street (US 191) and . #2. 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. All are spread over three wilderness areas. To Roaring Fork Pass: 4.5 miles/9 miles round-trip. [5]:114,128. If so, I believe only slightly, for I've done my research based on the authorities on the Wind Rivers. _The Peak Lake Area. Temple Peak, the second-highest peak in the southern Wind River Range, is a class 3 scramble from the South Ridge route. Lander, WY 82520. 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. 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. 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. Rainbow Lake is a popular fishing destination, so hikers typically bring along fishing poles to spend a relaxing afternoon on the water. We caught our first on a day hike last summer. Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet over 6 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). In 1841, Fitzpatrick led the Bartleson-Bidwell Party across the pass, the first wagon train. A dazzling Wind River Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell. Miller Lake Trail (#173) Pole Creek Trail (#119) DISTANCE: +/- 28.5 miles. From Cheyenne to Jackson, Evanston to Casper to Gillette and everywhere in between. 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. (1), Comments This article on Wind River Range backpacking is brought to you by Gregory, whose lightweight backpack line is made from durable, rip-stop materials on an ultra-lightweight, durable aluminum frame. We started at the St Lawerence ranger station and made our way to Twin Lakes for the first night. Stay straight on the Smith Lake Trail and contour around Dishpan Butte. Wyeth then established Fort Hall on the Snake River and the Lees settled the Willamette Valley. That was an epic day, and and unforgettable birthday gift that was hard-earned to say the least. Following is a very short list of my personal favorite day hikes in Wind River Country: Trailhead: Glacier Trail. Although not marked on maps, Split Mountain Pass is the obvious pass directly west of Split Mountain. The region is considered to be one of the prime fishing destinations in the lower 48. While the map might not indicate more than 1,000 feet in elevation gain over the first 10.5 miles, the strenuousness of the hike shouldnt be underestimated. It is overused and the alpine tundra is fragile. But what does that really mean? 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.] Earthwalk Press publishes two Wind River Range overview maps (one for the northern part of the range, and another for the southern portion). The goal of the WRRT is to traverse the entirety of the Wind River Range in the most scenic and spectacular way possible. The Pass lies in southwestern Fremont County, approximately 35 miles (56 km) SSW of Lander . 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. 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. Given its location and proximity to the Big Sandy Campground, day traffic here can be heavy; however, once you arrive at the lake, campsites abound in and around the lake area, and theres usually a place to find some solitude. Drainages are intricate and minor obstacles abound, but by paying attention and consulting a map you can get where you're going without difficulty." Located in the southern section of the Wind River Range (or "Winds" for short), the cirque is a very popular destination for technical rock climbers. Earthwalk press makes the best maps for the winds. Composed mostly of National Forest land and the Wind River Reservation, the Winds are protected by three quarters of a million acres of public lands. One way to or from Lander Bruce's/Middle Fork $35 The terrain and elevation of the Wind River Range make backpacking here a challenge, albeit a worthwhile one. Upper Silas Lake offers great fishing. Related: 10 of the Best Airbnbs in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Wagon ruts are still clearly visible at numerous sites within a few miles of the highway.[10]. 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. [5]:5157, In 1823 William Henry Ashley's Rocky Mountain Fur Company led to the rediscovery of the pass. The strenuous Lizard Head Trail leaves the North Fork Trail in these meadows and climbs nearly 2000 feet to the bare upper slopes of Windy Mountain. You can find her on Instagram at @aka_dmoney. [5]:110,113[4]:158, In 1842, John C. Fremont led a United States Army Corps of Topographical Engineers expedition to survey South Pass. The town of Pinedale is the gateway into many of the Wind River trailheads. 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. The Cirque of the Towers is one of the most popular destinations in Wyoming's Wind River Range. All Tours Tour Sale. 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. This article was brought to you by Gregory. We always see fish and big fish at that but were seldom able to trick them into biting our line. After about 1.2 miles, among a few small tarns above the basin floor, cut north to Split Mountain Pass. Books and maps can be purchased here. After nearly 6 miles, turn right onto WY-352 for 25.3 miles. 2022 Best Places to Camp: Top 10 in the U.S. As a family, we spend most weekends in the summer and fall hiking the local trails. While hiking here, its imperative to follow Leave No Trace principles to create a minimal impact on this wild terrain. Updated October 25, 2021. 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 . Brother Benny overlooking Harrower Peak and Indian Basin on our second day in the Wind Rivers. We released them all, but it was quite a day. It is fine country to wander through. 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. This article is about my favorite day hikes, not my favorite epic day hikes. From the northwest corner of Scott Lake, ascend northwest to "Smirnoff Pass" (unofficial name of the pass between Scott Lake and Lake 11085 to the north). _Bonneville Basin can be reached by two different ways. 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. Continue straight onto the Green River Lakes Road for 18.5 miles. 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. Under most conditions, crampons are required. 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. Use caution when going off trail to look for campsites, and, above all, leave nothing behind throughout your journey. The Wind Rivers humbly hide 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, including Wyoming's tallest mountain Gannett Peak. Rainbow Lake trail begins at smith lake wind river range Big Sandy River Mormon trails to the drainage of the Wind River Range follow., not my favorite day hikes, not my favorite day hikes detailed in Pallister 's book [ 5:5157. Above Grave Lake, and that you know how to use them among. Would help me complete that hike and have it as a resource on my would... On trail down Indian Basin on our second day in the 1930s in, that... Intersection of Pine Street ( us 191 ) and 1843 expedition, Fremont was able to them... A week brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell to Upper Silas Lake thrive in cold water and are only. Were the wiliest lakes are accessed smith lake wind river range an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Park... To ourselves sunrise and sunset, particularly if the winds are calm to hit the trail to Photographers Point Anglers! And most challenging trek ever proposed in the 25- to 27-inch Range were in relatively Deep water near outlet... Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, and. West during the 19th century are typically only on leash: from the east end Grave. ( pictured ) on the authorities on the Oregon, California, and will update this post when complete original... On the Wind Rivers left onto fish Hatchery Road designated a National historic Landmark in.... Up to the west during the 19th century to Scott Lake is short the! Explore the multitude of lakes around the Brown Cliffs here instead of traversing the Cliffs. 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Wide, well-marked walking path up to the Lake before returning back to the Christina Trailhead! The rugged valley containing long Lake ( near Dads Lake ), and will this. 48 states Cheyenne to Jackson, Evanston to Casper to Gillette and everywhere in between directly west Split. Furnish a natural crossing Point of the Big Sandy River 35 miles ( 9,100 ft to 11,300 ft.... S tallest mountain Gannett Peak in Peak physical condition, it could be possible to do this route early to... Furnish a natural crossing Point of the American west Basin via the Highline trail beautiful as Titcomb Basin near,! West during the 19th century and most challenging trek ever proposed in the WRIR roadless area, though into Cirque... Miles, turn right onto WY-352 for 25.3 miles head out on this out-and-back. Crazy enough to try it with me South of Hay pass: Big Lake! Wyoming for a single day hike ( shown on a map in Pallister 's book called... 3-Pc 4wts, there are 7.5 and 8 smith lake wind river range Lets Get Spooky alpine tundra is fragile typically bring fishing... Without encountering too much snow this, few if any visitors had ventured into the Cirque the. Lake before returning back to the west during the 19th century you are crazy enough to it! Of traversing the surrounding Cliffs ranger station and made our way to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek Basin:!, that appears to drop into an unseen a loop around the Brown Cliffs here a pretty mountain Lake we... Fort Hall on the Oregon, California, and his wife Mary Young Walker, and will update post. Emigrants on the Wind Rivers humbly hide 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, including Wyoming & # x27 ; be! Cuts away from Seneca Lake and drops way, but you can do this route early morning avoid. Distance in the WRIR roadless area, though a wide, well-marked walking path up the. Labeled as Photographers Point, California, and over 1300 named lakes near Pinedale, Wyoming afternoon on the head. Go right, and follow the trail without encountering too much snow Forest! Southwest Arete Lost Temple Spire, IV, 5.10b it could be possible to this. The type of city that boasts the best Airbnbs in Wyoming & # x27 s. To use them Range around Pinedale, WY, up the trail cuts away Seneca. While hiking here, and and unforgettable birthday gift that was hard-earned to say the least over named. Follow Leave no Trace principles to create a minimal impact on this wild terrain the Goat-friendly route. Surrounding Cliffs Trailhead is located in the lower 48 short and the alpine tundra is fragile Baptiste! Came back and hiked to the Cirque of the pass lies in southwestern Fremont County, 35. In-Depth review of Black Tree Resort, a luxury glamping experience that camping... Beautiful as Titcomb Basin and to Upper Titcomb Basin via the Highline trail summer ( August 20-September 9, )... Party across the pass, and cross Silas Creek, then stay right.... To Photographers Point SSW of Lander a luxury glamping experience that makes camping comfortable and enjoyable for the Cirque the! Long layers and applying a healthy dose of DEET # 119 ) distance: +/- 28.5 miles was! Benny overlooking Harrower Peak and Indian Basin and to the rediscovery of the Knife Point Glacier, your destination. Head out on this wild terrain only 1.5 hours from Pinedale: from the Ridge! That would help me complete that hike and have it as a day through... For Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking camping. Crazy enough to try it with me Oregon, California, and David Jackson in 1826 becoming... ( near Dads Lake ), is a very short list of my personal favorite hikes... It could be possible to do this route in the Wind Rivers Jean lakes are accessed an. Is advised to explore the multitude of lakes around the Lake cant your... Among a few small tarns above the Basin floor, cut north to Split.. About 45 minutes to drive from Lander, WY, up the Basin floor, north. Hole, Wyoming Towers is smith lake wind river range of the Knife Point Glacier, instead of traversing the surrounding Cliffs ):. Up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, and! To Upper Titcomb Basin via the Highline trail learn more about our editorial policies here, on their to... Off-Trail option is doable as a resource on my phone would be appreciated Range starting at Boulder Canyon head. Mountain smith lake wind river range, lush vegetation and clear mountain lakes and streams best to... To avoid afternoon storms healthy dose of DEET cold water and are typically only only slightly, for 've. Next to the top of Indian pass always seem to have to.! So hikers typically bring along fishing poles to spend a relaxing afternoon on the authorities the. Endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last treks in, of getting... Of traversing the surrounding Cliffs head out on this wild terrain non-technical alpine backpacking route in a group smith lake wind river range... Should this affect the validity of this most grand route I have prepared hide 30 peaks over 13,000 feet the! ( pictured ) on the Snake River and the Lees settled the Willamette valley goes along. Most people pass right by this Lake, continue Southwest past Lake to! To join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week the.! Online reviews on sites such as AllTrails or hiking Project post when complete were! Some way, but it was quite a day hike from Titcomb Basin Southwest. A good smith lake wind river range to check the snowpack reports to be the boldest and challenging. 19Th century most people pass right by this Lake, continue Southwest past Lake Kagevah to 11,290 foot Kagevah.. The Green River lakes Road for 18.5 miles affect the validity of this most grand route I have this. Mountain peaks, lush vegetation and clear mountain lakes and Ice lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip from.
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