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. Use caution when going off trail to look for campsites, and, above all, leave nothing behind throughout your journey. As far as camping, it sounds like you could potentially camp anywhere along this section. 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. This will avoid creating a new social trail that leads hikers astray. 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. 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. Wyeth then established Fort Hall on the Snake River and the Lees settled the Willamette Valley. 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. From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). Stay right at the junction and continue. Also, this section is described in Pallister's book. As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of alpine lakes to go around this beautiful mountain range, creating world-renowned fly fishing. They live in Lander, WY, where they frequently hike in the foothills and mountains of the Wind River Range. That's the question that this project tries to solve, and I think I've succeeded. Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park They were trying to avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon. Additional Read: 12 Best Airbnbs in Wyoming for a Taste of the American West. Visit, or enjoy even a single hike in Wind River Country and youll understand why its such a great gift to live here. Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. All Tours Tour Sale. [5]:5157, In 1823 William Henry Ashley's Rocky Mountain Fur Company led to the rediscovery of the pass. Wind River Mountains Topographic Map - Northern Half by Beartooth Mapping. 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. You can do this by contacting the National Forest Service or looking at online reviews on sites such as AllTrails or Hiking Project. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 11 h 27 min to complete. . 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. If you're looking for day-hikes out of GRL, try Slide or even Valaite . Wind river range Sept 1 - 11 2016 Days 1- 5. 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 seven persons forming the party were Robert McClelland of Hagerstown, who, with the celebrated Captain Wells, was captain of spies under General Wayne in his famous Indian campaign, Joseph Miller of Baltimore, for several years an officer of the U.S. Army, Robert Stuart, a citizen of Detroit, Benjamin Jones, of Missouri, who acted as huntsman of the party, Francois LeClaire, a halfbreed, and Andr Vale, a Canadian voyageur, and Ramsay Crooks, who is the only survivor of this small band of adventurers. The rest of the route down to Scott Lake is also detailed in Pallister's Book. Interested in Wind River Range backpacking but not going the distance in the Titcomb Basin? This hike primary trail can be used both directions and has a hard overall physical rating. From the Elkhart trailhead parking lot, take the Pole Creek Trail directly adjacent to . 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. Overall, pack more water than you think youll need, and take frequent breaks to prevent exhaustion and advanced altitude sickness. Continue north past the west side of Lake 11085 and weave your way through the multitude of lakes north and east of Mount Solitude. 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. 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. From Hall's Lake, travel west under the shadow of Horseshoe Ridge and north of Medina Mountain to Lake 10,542 (EC Lake) in Europe Canyon. Island Lake, Wind River Range, Wyoming, 1861. In fact, my most epic day hike in the Wind River Range was on my birthday one year. 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. Under most conditions, crampons are required. Approximately 4 miles south of Dubois, on Hwy 26/287. Island Lake is so named because theres an small island with trees on it in the middle. 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. Cirque of the Towers, Green River Lakes . 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. Also, they don't necessarily share the same parent. Hiking Smith Lake Basin in the Wind River Range : r/wyoming 2 yr. ago Posted by MeowingtonChaCha Hiking Smith Lake Basin in the Wind River Range Hello everyone, I'm sure someone over here is familiar with Wind River Range hikes and could point me in the right direction. Island Lake is beautiful! The Wind River Range has endless opportunities for backcountry camping each more beautiful and peaceful than the last. 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. We hiked to Clear Lake in the Winds from the Green River Lakes TH. Matthew Dickerson July 18-25. Earthwalk Press publishes two Wind River Range overview maps (one for the northern part of the range, and another for the southern portion). Hike along the eastern ramps and shore of this lake (it is reported that the going is toughest at the beginning southeast end). The Hay Pass Trail is not maintained, so keep your GPS, map, and compass handy. 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. 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). Earthwalk press makes the best maps for the winds. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. Just continue north to shallow and picturesque Hay Pass. Note that on AllTrails, you can hike this as an out-and-back trail by following the Lower Green River Lake Trail. I've never had slower progress in my life. 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. True happiness in the Cirque of the Towers. Seneca Lake is right at the beginning of some of the most spectacular high alpine climbing and backpacking routes. Its worth sharing the trail with more hikers, though, as the dramatic peaks surrounding the Big Sandy Lake Trail will not disappoint! All in all, its a highly accessible backpackers dream. Temple Peak, the second-highest peak in the southern Wind River Range, is a class 3 scramble from the South Ridge route. Why you should go: Discover a hidden treasure while enjoying sweeping views along the Slide Lake Trail. The Wind River Range is one of the best backpacking + climbing wildernesses in the lower 48. 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. You end at the Green River Lakes Trailhead, only 1.5 hours from Pinedale, WY. Its in the name! Why, you ask? Hi. When approaching from Temple Pass, avoid descending to Lake 10,839 by a messy traverse." The trail cuts away from Seneca Lake and drops way, way down. The Wind River Range extends for more than 100 miles, the crest forming part of the Continental Divide. There's a possible high camp (pictured) on the Lizard Head Plateau overlooking the Cirque. 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. Among the best ways to explore the Wind River Range is to travel one of the spectacular trails through the region. 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. 18.4 mi / 2280 ft gain The Wind River Range is one of the best backpacking + climbing wildernesses in the lower 48. Judging from a recent picture, it may go, but only in late summer. Daniell is a freelance writer based out of Fort Collins, Colorado. I have crafted this route to be the boldest and most challenging trek ever proposed in the Wind Rivers. 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 Range Plan with onX Backcountry " Visit the forests and creeks, and high alpine dotted with lakes, on this Wind River Range backpacking tour. Both locations are mind-bogglingly beautiful with plenty of features to lure the outdoor enthusiast. 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. Its a pretty mountain lake that we always seem to have to ourselves. All lakes can be accessed using the Stough Creek, Sheep Bridge, or Sweetwater trailheads in the Shoshone National Forest. The small lake draws far fewer anglers than other hikes in the area, meaning hikers here will enjoy a quieter, more secluded trail. Any resources that would help me complete that hike and have it as a resource on my phone would be appreciated! Mosquitoes are treacherous here in the Winds during the warmer months. I asked Jerry if for my birthday present he would do Wind River Peak in a day with me. The gold rush led to the establishment of booming mining communities, such as South Pass City and Atlantic City. If you cant plan your trip in September, I recommend wearing long layers and applying a healthy dose of DEET. 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. 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. I think most people pass right by this lake, enroute to Upper Silas Lake. Books and maps can be purchased here. The Lakeside Trail takes you deep into the forest of the Wind River Range, giving you a broad perspective of the magnificent range. The road immediately forks; stay left and follow this road to the end. Glaciers have left their mark in the form of U-shaped valleys, serrated peaks and ridges, and alpine cirques. It is apparent on topo maps, and there is a stream that follows it and drops to the creek. 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. . The Wind River High Route was pioneered by Andrew Skurka and Buzz Burrell in the late 2000s. 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. It was designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark on January 20, 1961. 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. Explore the World. Given the easy elevation gain and well maintained trail, this is a great choice for families. Between the five of us we caught about 18 trout in an hour. 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. Go south up the glacier to the top of Indian Pass. 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. I feel that this is all the description needed to arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure too much. Looking over Marms Lake Lakes dominate much of the Wind River Range, meaning you don't have to carry too much water. The Seneca Lake out-and-back trip is a modified version of the Wind River classic. Tyler Wildeck is a writer with a passion for all things outdoors. Be sure to check area regulations prior to setting out, as campfires and campsites are restricted throughout the basin to help protect the wilderness area. The route follows closely to the Continental Divide through the Wind River Range and is largely off-trail; of the approximate 100 miles, 65+ miles are off-trail, depending on your measuring device. This article was brought to you by Gregory. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. Great news: Dads Lake is a dog-friendly trail, just be sure to bring a leash along. 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. Explore the numerous lakes in the area. Wildlife, Create Recommended Route or EXTREME WX CATEGORIES CITIES & VALUES: Temperature Dewpoint Heat Index Wind Wind Chill Pressure Pressure Change P.O. 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. What if you could link nearly every major cirque and basin in the Winds with one non-technical route? . --Eric C. The Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake, Wind River Range. Justin Glass at a small tarn in the upper valley of Middle Fork Lake on the Wind River High Route, Wyoming. #WindRiverCountry, Wind River Visitors Council . Only Island Lake and Titcomb Basin come close in popularity. We ended up at Boulder Lake Campground through another gift of serendipity. Seneca Lake is right at the beginning of some of the most spectacular high alpine climbing and backpacking routes. 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 . Vast views of the Wind River Ranges glaciers and towering peaks proudly give this lookout its name, where photographers come from all over the world to capture Wyomings iconic steep and jagged peaks. Earthwalk Press North Wind River Range. by Joan Pendleton. Additional Read: 11 Amazing Wyoming Cabin Rentals To Warm Your Soul. Keep following the trail past Poison Lake, and finally to Coon Lake. _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. Here begins the true crux of the route: getting down the Mammoth Glacier to Scott Lake. All are spread over three wilderness areas. The best time to visit the Titcomb Basin area is in the late summer, beginning in July and ending in late September. 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. We started hiking at 3:30am, and hiked 16 miles to the top of Wind River Peak, the tallest peak in the southern Wind River Range, only to turn around and return. Thumb Lake is just a mile or so above Island Lake, and its worth the extra effort to see it. We released them all, but it was quite a day. Looks like a cool hike though! You then depart from the trail due northeast, following Blair Creek to the pond at 9590. Turn right on the road and walk back to your car. The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. From the main trail, you might not see Lower Silas Lake, unless youre looking for it. 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. This would add about. 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. Stay straight on the Smith Lake Trail and contour around Dishpan Butte. The best route from Baker Lake to Bear Lake is described in Pallister's book, and also Matt Lemke's excellent trip report. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Continue west until you get to the drainage of the Knife Point Glacier, your next destination. Unless any of you are crazy enough to try it with me! Wind River High Route Trailheads & Transportation Thru-hiking East side The most logical termini for a Wind River High Route thru-hike are on the range's east side: Bruce Bridge, 15 miles west of Lander, entirely on pavement Trail Lakes, 10 miles west of Dubois, mostly on gravel At both trailheads, you will find only a parking lot and an outhouse. From Temple Pass, descend to the east shore of Temple Lake. 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. Trip Type: Loop For the last five years the mythical Wind Rivers have eluded my presence. Rainbow Lake is a popular fishing destination, so hikers typically bring along fishing poles to spend a relaxing afternoon on the water. Few places in North America are as staggeringly beautiful as Titcomb Basin and Island Lake. Cabin Rentals Areas. Directions from Pinedale: From the intersection of Pine Street (US 191) and . [5]:114,128. In 1841, Fitzpatrick led the Bartleson-Bidwell Party across the pass, the first wagon train. This section was inspired by Matt Lemke's trip report "Gone with the Winds." Mileage: 12 miles RT You can learn more about our editorial policies here. To go to Lower Silas Lake, stay left and continue straight and down the trail toward Lower Silas Lake, which you should be able to see. 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. Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles (9,400 ft to 10,626 ft). As a family, we spend most weekends in the summer and fall hiking the local trails. Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet over 6 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). When I was just 3 years old, my parents moved us from Iowa to Lander, Wyoming. _The Deep Creek Lakes and Ice Lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park. . Island Lake Backpack in the Wind River Range, Wyoming - This very popular backpack leads to Island Lake (10,346-ft.), a stunning destination with great day hiking, good fishing and scenic campsites. The Rainbow Lake Trail begins at Dream Lake, which is right along the Continental Divide Trail. The lake can produce some stunning reflections. Big Sandy - High use 11. Your jaw WILL drop (if it didn't already) when you reach the crest of Jackass Pass and overlook Lonesome Lake and the Cirque. I have taken backpacking trips to the Cirque of the Towers and Temple Lake area, as well as the Titcomb Basin area; however, I have not completed the WRRT yet. 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. 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 Also in 1835, Thomas Fitzpatrick led Protestant missionaries Samuel Parker and Dr. Marcus Whitman across the pass. 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. 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 . The town of Pinedale is the gateway into many of the Wind River trailheads. 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. 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. In his 1843 expedition, Fremont was able to determine the elevation of the pass at 7,490 feet above sea level. We've spent the last week exploring the Wind River Range around Pinedale, WY. The historic pass became the route for emigrants on the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails to the West during the 19th century. My name is Shelli Johnson, and I love to hike. ISLAND LAKE: Its about 5 miles to Island Lake from the trailhead, 10 miles roundtrip. 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. 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. Should this affect the validity of this most grand route I have prepared? Then to Fire Hole Lakes, to. Dogs are allowed on National Forest trails as long as they are on leash. Cirque of the Towers Wind River Range #78372 Purchase. Mileage: 17 miles RT This we know. Everest!! 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. Continue climbing northeast, and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak (class 2). Wind River Range " A great and fun trail with awesome views. Free Trail Guides. She is married to Jerry, and is the mother of three sons, Wolf, Hayden, and Fin. This popular trailhead is located in the southern Wind River Range next to the Big Sandy River. According to the approximate route I traced on my phone, the total elevation gain is about 29,000 feet!! 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