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. The passes furnish a natural crossing point of the Rockies. The pass is a broad open saddle with prairie and sagebrush, allowing a broad and nearly level route between the Atlantic and Pacific watersheds. The Hay Pass Trail is not maintained, so keep your GPS, map, and compass handy. lewis smith lake lewis smith lake alabama smith lake alabama I asked Jerry if for my birthday present he would do Wind River Peak in a day with me. [5]:244248,261 Labeled Pinedales most popular day hike, this hike is a guaranteed winner if you can handle the distance. Trail, USFS - Bridger Teton National Forest Office. Miller Lake Trail (#173) Pole Creek Trail (#119) DISTANCE: +/- 28.5 miles. 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. Joel Pickens Walker, and his wife Mary Young Walker, made the journey with their four children. The Big Sandy Trailhead is the gateway to several popular backpacking trails, so you will pass more hikers here than in other areas. In his free time, Tyler can be found searching Portland for the next great food establishment or perusing the many bookshelves of Powell's. 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. 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. Prepare for your next adventure by downloading maps. In fact, 19 of Wyoming's 20 highest peaks are in the Wind River Range and there are more than 40-named peaks rising above 13,000 feet. An extra day is advised to explore the multitude of lakes around the Brown Cliffs here. Any resources that would help me complete that hike and have it as a resource on my phone would be appreciated! 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Jedediah Smith's party, part of Ashley's Hundred, made the first crossing traveling east to west in Feb. 1824. Hike along the eastern ramps and shore of this lake (it is reported that the going is toughest at the beginning southeast end). Trip Type: Out-and-back Hi. 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. Burnt Lake - Low use 8. Slide Lake Trail features beautiful views throughout. 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. I saw maybe five people on my way to the Cirque from the Big Sandy Lake (Big Sandy Trailhead to Big Sandy Lake is a different story). 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. From the cabin, simply follow trails for less than a mile, crossing west over the Green River bridge, to the Green River Lakes TH. From the main trail, you might not see Lower Silas Lake, unless youre looking for it. The route traverses glaciers, boulderfields, alpine . 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. Weve caught a lot of brook trout here, nothing big, but the catching is pretty good in our experience. 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. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. 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. 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. Why you should go: Discover a hidden treasure while enjoying sweeping views along the Slide Lake Trail. The Wind River Range of Wyoming is a place that nearly every backcountry enthusiast dreams of visiting. 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. And even during my couple trips to those areas, it seemed absolutely deserted compared to my local trails in Colorado. From Hay Pass, drop south past the east of Dennis Lake, and past the west shores of Golden Lake, Lake Louise, and finally Upper Golden Lake. The range is also home to some of North America's largest glaciers. Ashley subsequently established the first Rocky Mountain Rendezvous in 1825. They live in Lander, WY, where they frequently hike in the foothills and mountains of the Wind River Range. Looks like a cool hike though! . - Marcel Proust Escape to a Random Place Discover Luzon Lake in Sullivan County, United States and Hilderbrand Lake in Wisconsin, United States . After about 1.2 miles, among a few small tarns above the basin floor, cut north to Split Mountain Pass. The goal of the WRRT is to traverse the entirety of the Wind River Range in the most scenic and spectacular way possible. 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. From Temple Pass, descend to the east shore of Temple Lake. Snow usually doesnt melt until mid-May and returns in October, so its a relatively short hiking season around here. Half Moon Lake - Low use 7. Smith Lake Lake Popular Destinations in Wyoming Cheyenne Casper Laramie Gillette The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes. The meadow before the trail drops to Ross lake so muddy that it stopped the horse packers, so I only saw 2 groups at Ross Lake the . Lower Silas Lake: Its about 2 miles to Lower Silas Lake, 4 miles roundtrip. Temple Peak, the second-highest peak in the southern Wind River Range, is a class 3 scramble from the South Ridge route. The trail then follows a loop around the lake before returning back to the original junction. I wouldn't bet on it, however. Scab Creek - Medium use 10. All Rights Reserved. I have crafted this route to be the boldest and most challenging trek ever proposed in the Wind Rivers. For speedier backpackers, Big Sandy Lake is a popular camping spot just under 6 miles from the Big Sandy trailhead. Highlights: 48 summits higher than 12,500 feet, Gannett Peak-Wyoming's highest, 7 of the largest glaciers in the Rocky Mountains, 2,900 lakes and ponds, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, many campgrounds and trailhead access points. It traverses northwest while staying high on the mountaintops. This vast 110-mile uplifted spine offers limitless climbing and hiking in a remote setting. We've spent the last week exploring the Wind River Range around Pinedale, WY. If you're looking for day-hikes out of GRL, try Slide or even Valaite . You'll pass no fewer than 100 large lakes (and innumerable small tarns), pass or traverse dozens of notable peaks, and see the largest glaciers in the American Rocky Mountains. These are handy for seeing the entire range, possible alternate . If traveling lightly and in peak physical condition, it could be possible to do this route in a little over a week. The pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus. We caught our first on a day hike last summer. First, I experienced some great fishing for Rainbows on Ross Lake (big rainbows)and cutties from Hidden Lake. His favorite place he's ever visited is Alaska, and his favorite activity might be fishing or reading, depending on the day. And the shores of Grave Lake (also pictured) have endless scenic camping spots. (This turn is 5 miles south/east of where US-191 leaves US-189). Depending on where you decide to camp, there may or may not be trees large enough to create bear hangs, so bear canisters may be the most sensible option. You'll end up a mile down the road from the parking area for the Bears Ears Trail. Trip Type: Out-and-back She is married to Jerry, and is the mother of three sons, Wolf, Hayden, and Fin. ISLAND LAKE: Its about 5 miles to Island Lake from the trailhead, 10 miles roundtrip. I noticed that most routes follow the lower highline trail, or skip the many magnificent areas including Stough Creek Lakes, Deep Lake Cirque, Grave Lake Cirque, North Fork Cirque (on the Wind River Indian Reservation), the Brown Cliffs, Scott Lake, and Bear Basin. Odesa Ukraine South Pass (elevation 7,412ft (2,259m) and 7,550ft (2,300m)) is the collective term for two mountain passes on the American Continental Divide, in the Rocky Mountains in southwestern Wyoming. 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). The Big Piney Ranger District hosts a wide variety of cultural and natural history, recreational opportunities, timber, range, mineral reserves, and wildlife. The Pass lies in southwestern Fremont County, approximately 35 miles (56 km) SSW of Lander . 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. The Pass lies in southwestern Fremont County, approximately 35 miles (56km) SSW of Lander. Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet over 8.5 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). By 1848, 18,487 Americans had crossed the pass, and over 300,000 by 1860. Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet over 13 miles 9,100 ft to 11,500 ft). The rest of the route down to Scott Lake is also detailed in Pallister's Book. About 500 of them are named, and most of them are fishable. After passage of the Pacific Telegraph Act of 1860, South Pass Station was established in 1861, at Last Crossing on the Sweetwater River. If you're not comfortable traversing the Mammoth Glacier described in Pallister's book, an alternate route is to go over Knapsack Col and down to Peak Lake, over Cube Rock Pass, and join the Highline Trail near Trail Creek Park. It is overused and the alpine tundra is fragile. "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. A widely-used trail, this route offers the chance to take in the Wind River Range wilderness in a way thats palatable to beginner through intermediate backpackers with a taste for adventure. From Big Sandy Lake, switchback north on the well-worn trail to Lonesome Lake in 3 miles. This trail is 40.5 mi long with an elevation gain of 7,513 ft. What is the longest trail in Wind River Range? Check the Map. _Bald Mountain Basin and Cook Lakes are accessed by descending south on the Hay Pass trail, the heading northwest passing Timico Lake, then on trails west to Baldy Lakes and north to Bald Mountain Basin. Anglers: There are golden trout in Thumb Lake. You'll touch the east shore of Lonesome Lake, and follow the trail east to Lizard Head Meadows. From the east end of Grave Lake, follow the trail that goes west along the north shore. Given the easy elevation gain and well maintained trail, this is a great choice for families. Few places in North America are as staggeringly beautiful as Titcomb Basin and Island Lake. For a while we were losing so much eleveation I thought we might have taken a wrong turn. The approach to Deep Lake is short and the elevation gain is minimal, attributes a rock climber considers virtues. Why, you ask? Indeed, the time where one can write a guidebook without ever leaving home is upon us! In fact, my most epic day hike in the Wind River Range was on my birthday one year. 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. Approximately 4 miles south of Dubois, on Hwy 26/287. Dogs are allowed on National Forest trails as long as they are on leash. If youre planning a Wind River Range backpacking trip at altitude, consider how hard youre trying to push yourself, and make sure you know how to tell if youre dehydrated or suffering from mild altitude sickness. Moose, apparently, can run 35 miles an hour for up to 400 meters, which is way faster than any human has ever run 400 meters. 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. 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. Marms Lake (near Dads Lake), is on one of the more popular treks in,. 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. 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 . Slide Creek Falls is a unique waterfall thats not very known unless you look at a topo map. Just continue north to shallow and picturesque Hay Pass. From here, there is a maintained trail all the way to Big Sandy Lake. To Hike to Lake Louise: Its about 2.5 miles to Lake Louise, 5 miles roundtrip. This is rated as class 2-3 by Pallister. The archery range on Berlin Lake Wildlife Area is open sunrise-sunset, except during holidays, and is free-of-charge. All are spread over three wilderness areas. Heres our take on the best day hikes in the Wind River Range. 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). To Roaring Fork Pass: 4.5 miles/9 miles round-trip. 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. Grab your next favorite hiking backpack from Gregorys website today! As you make your way under the gigantic shadow of Warbonnet Peak, there are many ups and downs and rocky sections to shift your gaze to your feet. Camping along this trek can be found at Shadow Lake, and then in and around the Jackass Pass area later in the trip. 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. And they weigh 600 to 1,300 pounds, so if they hit you, it'd be like . They were trying to avoid Crow warriors further north, on their return to St. Louis, Missouri from Astoria, Oregon. From the Pass, follow the Osborne Mountain Route as described by Pallister and Kelsey. 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 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. 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. Trip Type: Loop In 1884, Emile Granier, a French mining engineer, established a hydraulic mining operation that allowed gold mining to continue. 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 area between the lakes is blessed with many fine . "[5]:112124, Stephen W. Kearny led the first military expedition to South Pass in 1845. I'm sure someone over here is familiar with Wind River Range hikes and could point me in the right direction. Note that on AllTrails, you can hike this as an out-and-back trail by following the Lower Green River Lake Trail. Why you should go: Dive deep into the Winds to gain views of its well-known high peaks and crystal alpine lakes. Matthew Dickerson July 18-25. Granite peaks -- 40 of them over 13,000 feet high -- dominate the landscape. Earthwalk press makes the best maps for the winds. Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail? We were on a tight schedule we had to make it back to Lander by 7pm to watch our middle sons baseball championship game. Thats another story. Bear Lakes, although a short detour, look absolutely gorgeous. On Lizard Head Plateau. True happiness in the Cirque of the Towers. 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. 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. To create a loop, youll just want to follow the Lakeside Trail back to the trailhead. Make your way north past a myriad of small lakes to Crescent Lake. Hidden Lake can be reached by bushwacking 2 miles from Ross Lake. This would add about. 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. When hiking in a group, you should always stay on the trail to avoid creating erosion. Location. The Jean Lakes are a long day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline Trail. Unless any of you are crazy enough to try it with me! 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. SILAS CANYON (including Lower Silas Lake, Upper Silas Lake, Island Lake, and Thumb Lake), Trailhead: Christina Lake Trailhead, just past Fiddler Lake, when approaching from Lander, WY. Allrightsreserved. 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. The region is considered to be one of the prime fishing destinations in the lower 48. Best reached from Pinedale, this trail goes by a few names. 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. Continue straight onto the Green River Lakes Road for 18.5 miles. _Bonneville Basin can be reached by two different ways. 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. Overall, pack more water than you think youll need, and take frequent breaks to prevent exhaustion and advanced altitude sickness. Upper Silas Lake offers great fishing. Why you should go: Arguably the most popular day hike in the Wind River Range, Photographers Point never fails to impress with its stunningly picturesque scenery. Best of all, nowhere else in the world do golden trout grow as big. Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park Its a pretty mountain lake that we always seem to have to ourselves. If conditions/weather is not safe, day hike into the Titcomb Lakes, and exit to the Green River Lakes via the Highline Trail. No matter what you plan to do while in Missoula, these Airbnbs can complete the puzzle for a perfect escape. When approaching from Temple Pass, avoid descending to Lake 10,839 by a messy traverse." Island Lake, Wind River Range, Wyoming, 1861. Follow the trail around the large base of Roaring Fork Mountain to arrive at Tayo Park. Continue north to the head of Tourist Creek, and ascend northeast above lake 10890 all the way to the divide near Point 12450. From Camp Lake, head northeast above Half-Fish Lake (Lake 9675) and continue above treeline up the slopes around 11,600 feet. I feel that this is all the description needed to arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure too much. The section from Big Sandy Lake to the Cirque of the Towers will be the busiest part of the entire WRRT. (Joshua Bergan photo) Few mountain ranges in the world offer the outdoorsman as much as Wyoming's Wind River Range: Miles of trail to ride or backpack, glaciers to climb, some of the world's best granite for rock climbing. Book a Tour. by Joan Pendleton. Considering taking on of the Wind River classics? Heres what to know before you get out on the trail: 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. One way to or from Lander Bruce's/Middle Fork $35 The 2022 Glampys: The Coolest Glampsites You Can Book Right Now, The Dyrt Is Hiring! The Wind River Range is home to thousands of lakes and ponds, with an appealing mix of golden, brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Mileage: 29-30 miles RT The Wind River Range Traverse (WRRT) is the finest non-technical alpine backpacking route in the lower 48 states. I'm guessing it's called that for a good reason. Continue north past the west side of Lake 11085 and weave your way through the multitude of lakes north and east of Mount Solitude. Also in 1835, Thomas Fitzpatrick led Protestant missionaries Samuel Parker and Dr. Marcus Whitman across the pass. From Upper Golden, head north up to Lake 10787, the east down the slopes, and then north to Camp Lake. Lake Smith General Information County: Kossuth Location: 3 miles north of Algona Acres: 59.00 Maximum Depth: 12.6 ft. (2009) Motoring Restrictions: Electric Motors Only Nearby Parks Ambrose A. Why is this hike so popular? The Wind Rivers humbly hide 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, including Wyomings tallest mountain Gannett Peak. Fishing and backpacking are popular here, so bring your pack, tent, and fishing pole to make this a fun overnighter. A dazzling Wind River Range brook trout, courtesy of Finis Mitchell. Its recommended for the Cirque of the Towers loop that you bring a map and compass and that you know how to use them. Pick up all dog waste as well as any human trash. 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). 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