You can reach Seneca Lake by parking at the Elkhart Park trailhead and taking the Pole Creek Trail from there. You will need a permit to camp at the lakes. Trip Type: Out-and-back To access trails, drive down the Teton Park Road and turn at South Jenny 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. Im going to try and keep this hike narrative pretty short. Follow the plateau northwest all the way to Lake 10528 in Stough Creek Basin. We were fine with that, pun intended, and felt that the low-lying nature of Cathedral Lake would be good for hiking so early in the season when so much snow is still present. Follow it's north shore west to the unnamed pass between Native Lake and Faller Lake (maps show a trail from Native to Faler Lake, but reportedly it is unmaintained and almost non-existent. We eventually got a reprieve and broke out into an area of dry shoreline, which was glorious to walk on. Although, Castle Peak has a class 2 hike all the way to its summit, Cathedral Peak does not. The incline is gradual the whole way, and the way back to the trailhead is a smooth descent as well. We then went along a mostly-flat section that meanders through boulders and trees and was, in my words, so ugly I could stab my eyes out. The view from the top is off, as youll see Sanford Park, and it looks like you should be going there. Among the abundant wildlife of the Wind River Range are mosquitoes, and theyre everywhere. If you come prepared with a map and compass, you can link several trails and lakes together for the ultimate Wind River Range adventure. 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. I am also delighted to hear that you are still going. It was slowly melting, which meant that the floor of the tent would be wet and thus colder, though the inside would be fine. Less than 35 miles. The range is also home to some of North America's largest glaciers. Only the off-trail option is doable as a day hike (shown on a map in Pallister's book). Related Read:Crown Jewels: 14 Majestic Hikes in Glacier National Park. Explore the map. And also from going south from New Fork Lake past Lee Lake. Lembert Dome Trail: This 2.8-mile round-trip trail features stunning panoramic views of Tuolumne Meadows. Once on the trail, consider spending the first night at Hobbs Lake or Seneca Lake and progressing on to Island Lake for the second. It is illegal to camp within 200 feet of a water source or trail. Why you should go: Hike on an easy trail as you enter the Cirque of the Towers area and fly fish one of Wyomings favorite lakes. Why you should go: Work your way up through thick forest to gain views of the entire Wind River Range. Cathedral Lake is a lake located just 18.4 miles from Fort Washakie, in Fremont County, in the state of Wyoming, United States, near Temple Creek Summer Home Area, WY. --Lana Turner. Camping along this trek can be found at Shadow Lake, and then in and around the Jackass Pass area later in the trip. This would add about. On the other side I found my favorite flower! _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. It attracts 775,000 visitors a year with its calm waters, beautiful beaches and desert weather with more than 300 sunny days a year. From Tarns Camp to the peak of Gannett, you will be climbing for three miles. The pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus. Cathedral Peak is one of the Colorado Centennial 13ers meaning it's one of the highest 100 ranked peaks in Colorado. We only saw one group of campers down by the lake. While the trip offers a number of different arrangements depending on how long you make it, the recommended path includes starting from the Elkhart Park Trailhead, which is located just a two-hour drive from Jackson. Although not marked on maps, Split Mountain Pass is the obvious pass directly west of Split Mountain. If youre hiking, camping or backpacking, you can minimize your impact on the environment with Leave No Trace principles and ensure everyone has a good time with basic trail etiquette tips. This is rated as class 2-3 by Pallister. As we descended, we smelled cooking food, too, so I think that these folks had been resupplied by the outfitters. 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. Ok, so let me describe the trail! They bring back a lot of fond memories Ive been doing this trip since I was 12 and Im 76 now so have seen a lot of changes to trail. Remember to Leave No Trace, come prepared, and have fun! No one was along this eastern area, and we couldnt see or hear anyone. We decided to leave our tent and only use my pack, and to head up for Mendarrin Lake to the west, not knowing what wed find. Above treeline no trail has been worn, but you can follow cairns across the windswept plateau. After that, its all downhill. I need to spend more time on the Eastern side of the Winds, but wont be able to for some time as my daughter is still too young for the mileage required in my limited time off, at least with the drive from my home. You can learn more about our editorial policies here. Prints Available Its a short drive from Pinedale to the Big Sandy Trailhead, so you can spend more time on the trail and less in the car. Moderate 4.8 (5039) Grand Teton National Park. Youll pass through another treeless flatland called the Burro Flat. The issue was the amount of snowpack. 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. Fly fishing is a very popular activity for overnighters of Dads Lake. NPS Photo/J. But it was worth it. We also stopped for some pictures on the drive out! I might one day orienteer it over it Dutch Over Lake, if Im so blessed. Enjoy your time in this otherworldly wilderness Wyoming has to offer! Travel here is high compared to other, harder to reach, trailheads of the Winds. From Windy Lake Basin, make your way east to the top of the plateau, as described in Nancy Palister's book "Beyond Trails." Partway up, a short trail branches left to Bear Lakes. Prepare for your next adventure by downloading maps. Here you can go straight and around the north side of Middle Lake (SmithMiddleCathedralsomeone wasnt creative), or take the branch trail toward Cook Lake. The rest of the route down to Scott Lake is also detailed in Pallister's Book. I couldnt believe it! If you are looking at this map in the winter and it's showing that there are no driving directions available, it's likely because the road is closed. As we set up camp and got firewood, the sunset was awesome, though I didnt manage to get many very nice photos. The height of Mt. Unless any of you are crazy enough to try it with me! (No lake trout or mackinaw in it). 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. 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. I have hope, however, that the Mammoth has receded enough that there is a possible non-glacier route following the southern edge of the glacier. 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. Stretching over 100 miles along the Continental Divide, the Wind River Range in Wyoming is an oft-missed treasure trove for backcountry exploration. (Rough Draft, 05/02/2021 Revision), Review: Hiking Gorgeous Lost Twin Lakes, Cloud Peak Wilderness, Review: 12-Mile Day Hike to Slide Lake, Wind River Range, Rated R and 5 Stars: Septoplasty and More, The Pornography of Butterflies and Terry Crews, Resident Youth (15 thru 17 years old) $10. Length 13.3 miElevation gain 1,755 ftRoute type Out & back. There was a lush, green lawn leading up to the lake, but were law-abiders when possible, so we looked around the trees. At 8:30, we found ourselves camping closer to the water than Id like, but snowpack in the trees left us no choice. The best time to visit the Titcomb Basin area is in the late summer, beginning in July and ending in late September. It is advised that you camp in either of these spots rather than at Big Sandy Lake. Snow will add another element to route-finding. Why you should go: Get lost deep in the Wind River Range as you find yourself among jagged peaks, rushing streams, and crystal-clear lakes filled with trout. We reached Mendarrin 2 hours after leaving camp, which was far too long for the distance. RV Weight . According to the approximate route I traced on my phone, the total elevation gain is about 29,000 feet!! Highway 1; Highway 101; Highway 270; Highway 70; . Cathedral Group is a group of the tallest peaks in the Teton Range, including Grand Teton, Mount Owen and Teewinot. For backpackers who wish to visit Cook Lake, you can create a loop that covers just over 29 miles in total. We heard some people and saw a couple of folks fishing at the west side, far from us. Trip Type: Out-and-back Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet over 6 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft) Located on the way up to the Cirque of the Towers, Dad's Lake is a pristine alpine setting that offers even the least experienced backpackers the chance to test their trail legs. The climb at the end was of course horrible and hot, and Im going to admit that we cut off some distance by going cross country for a bit. When approaching from Temple Pass, avoid descending to Lake 10,839 by a messy traverse." The walk down did provide a ton of places you could campwell, not at the time of year we were there, because they were covered in about 4-5 feet of compacted snow. While the Wind River Range receives barely half the traffic that its more popular counterparts do (think the Sierra Nevadas or the Rockies), the Cirque of the Towers loop remains one of the most popular trails in the region, both for short backpacking trips and dedicated climbers who set up base camps below the towering Cirque spires. We climbed the granite knob easily and got a nice view of the drainage, but if youre not in the view, you should just stick to the trail. Great news: Dads Lake is a dog-friendly trail, just be sure to bring a leash along. 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. It has an elevation gain of 800 feet and takes six to eight hours to hike. I know that while backpacking its typically not advised to bring so many extra clothes, but since you will be camping at high altitude and in the cold, dry layers are necessary to prevent hypothermia. 4. Related Read:Heres Why Leave No Trace Principles are So Damn Important. At the top of the first hill you went off to the right and then down the golden stairsabout 1/2 mile straight down. However, for the most scenic, most direct and aesthetic route, walk on trail down Indian Basin and to Upper Titcomb Basin. Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles (9,400 ft to 10,626 ft). Right from the start, this trail passes through aspen groves and thick pine forest. Do you mind if I use one of your picts as a basis for a attempt to paint a picture of cathedral lake. Ive done this same hike on several occasions but its been over 20 years now. Very few people fished the cookno namemeridian arm. That lasted for about 400 feet, and we were then forced back into the woods nearing the area between the lakes. It is unfortunately missed by most traverses of the range. It had 2# to 5# brooks in it. At the western tip of Middle Lake, near the inlet, we stopped to fish. Look at us, taking one for the USFS! Land of Falls: Stunning Waterfall Hikes in Oregon, 11 Beautiful Hikes in Washingtons Alpine Lakes Wilderness, 12 Best Hiking Trails Near Scottsdale, Arizona. Heart Lake Trail will connect you to Palmer Lake and Doubletop Trails, and a shorter loop can be made with Trapper Lake Trail as well. Unfortunately, wed wandered far from the trail and ended up on the hill overlooking Cloverleaf Lake. 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. PurpleCamping, international trips; excursions. This requires using Dickinson Park out of Lander, which itself requires crossing reservation land. True happiness in the Cirque of the Towers. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead (44 reviews) "All rooms are individually owned. From what I could discern, going all the way to Cook Lake (as we did) and doing a small section of orienteering is probably the most scenic way to access those lakes. GreenDay hikes; can be done as overnights. The Wind River Range of Wyoming is truly spectacular. Bula dearperson! Following the partly maintained Christina Pass Trail starting east of the trailhead at Sweetwater Guard Station (not at the end of the 2-mile dirt road to the normal Sweetwater Gap TH), you hike approximately 3 miles to the intersection with the North Fork of Blair Creek. That said, please follow Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 200 feet away from any water sources and trails. The Cathedral Group Turnout is located along Jenny Lake Road which you can access while driving the Grand Teton Scenic Loop Drive. To clarify, this is National Forest land. The mosquitoes werent bad yet, so I got naked outside and cleaned off while mom cleaned inside the tent. The trail begins at the Big Sandy Campground and offers a wide, well-marked walking path up to the 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. From Grave Lake by taking the Hailey Pass trail west to Pyramid Lake, then off-trail north up the East Fork Valley. 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. View Wind River Range Traverse Image Gallery - 1 Images. Do this route early morning to avoid afternoon storms. 2. You end up where Palister calls "Shangri-La." Wyomings Section 13 of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is a dream walk through the Wind River Range. Continue north past the west side of Lake 11085 and weave your way through the multitude of lakes north and east of Mount Solitude. Dads Lake is at a lower elevation than some of the longer backpacking trails in the area, so temperatures here will be a bit more manageable overnight. 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, Yosemite Camping Reservations: Set Up Cancellation Text Notifications, 6 Private Campgrounds to Book When Your Favorite National Parks are Full. Should this affect the validity of this most grand route I have prepared? Also, they don't necessarily share the same parent. YellowOvernight hikes, typically 2 nights. Camping near Halls Lake or further along at the Golden Lakes (just north of Hay Pass in the next section) would be recommended. They liked my Red Devil spoon the best, but sadly one grabbed it, snapped the line, and spat out the lure! Before 8PM we had a huge fire going, and sadly the mosquitoes here were fairly aggressive. Use caution when going off trail to look for campsites, and, above all, leave nothing behind throughout your journey. The night was quite cool and very quiet, with no wind. A lot of camping locations dont have tall trees for hanging bear bags, so bear canisters are your safest bet. The trail is a bit rocky near the turnaround point, so trekking poles are suggested. Day 1 totals: 6.4 miles, +1392/-783, 9296 min/9600 avg/9995 max. The place is catalogued as Lake by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names and its elevation above sea level is equal to 9954ft. Truly beautiful, steep peaks create the backdrop of Photographers Point. According to Pallister, the safest way down is on the Glacier, instead of traversing the surrounding cliffs. The majority of the Wind River Ranges hikes and primary backpacking trails are at elevations of 9,000 feet or above, making them difficult and potentially dangerous for unprepared visitors. Fishing was fantastic 1st time at smith 20 casts 19 brookies caught. Continue climbing northeast, and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak (class 2). Excellent photography and fishing opportunities. 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 Deep Creek Lakes and Ice Lakes are accessed by an 8-mile round trip dayhike from Tayo Park. From Upper Golden, head north up to Lake 10787, the east down the slopes, and then north to Camp Lake. There are several camping options on the Cirque trail. Grizzlies are active throughout the range. It was ugly and filled with dead trees. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 45 min to complete. And even during my couple trips to those areas, it seemed absolutely deserted compared to my local trails in Colorado. You can find her on Instagram at @aka_dmoney. Bring bear protection, never hike alone, and make noise as youre navigating the backcountry. We followed the trail past Cook Lake, but it wasnt pretty and I didnt get pictures of the lake itself. Dusten, we both had Verizon but neither of us got any service there. The Cirque of the Towers is a popular destination for climbers, anglers, and backpackers alike. The trail in is so ugly that Im knocking a star off of the rating, but I otherwise truly appreciated what this short hike had to offer. The Dyrt PRO lets you download maps and campgrounds without cell service. 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. Thats a river of deception and leads up toward Wind River Peak. We'll have 4 days so that's a pretty laid back pace but we're looking to get into an area where we can setup camp and explore and relax. From the cabin, simply follow trails for less than a mile, crossing west over the Green River bridge, to the Green River Lakes TH. Even on this popular trail, finding solitude among the peaks is easy. Thanks. Although the Wind River Range is not quite as tall on average as the Rockies, altitude is still a major consideration for backpackers and hikers alike, particularly at elevations above 9,000 feet. Whether youre looking for a quick overnighter or a weeklong expedition, your sure to find a winner with any of these trails. Outfitters on their horses were headed up, so we stepped to the side. Over billions of years, natural forces including earthquakes, glaciers and erosion have shaped this magnificent landscape. It was growing into the evening and we still had quite a ways left to go! I got home past midnight and worked the next day. Thank you for your beautiful pictures. Cathedral Lake Middle Lake Brookie Snake River Cut from the North Fork Popo Agie Me and Sweetie trying to stay dry. The views here are straight out of a National Geographic magazine. 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. We began descending and at mile 2 reached some switchbacks. It is apparent on topo maps, and there is a stream that follows it and drops to the creek. Its the ideal pack for a high-altitude trek through the Wind River Range. This trail starts from the Pole Creek Trail, then connects with the Seneca Lake and Indian Pass trails. 307-742-6608. stmattslaramie@gmail.com. The Big Sandy to North Fork Lake section hike is typically done point-to-point with help from others to shuttle or by thru-hikers of the CDT. Wyoming; Wisconsin; West Virginia; Washington; Virginia; Vermont; DIY. Anything less is possible, but itll hurt! 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. Cathedral Lake Type: Lake Category: body of water Location: Wyoming, Rocky Mountains, United States, North America View on OpenStreetMap Latitude 42.8207 or 42 49' 15" north Longitude How is the road into Dickinson Park. Only one section of road was sketchy, and even that wasnt too badjust some severe ruts from mud. All are spread over three wilderness areas. If conditions/weather is not safe, day hike into the Titcomb Lakes, and exit to the Green River Lakes via the Highline Trail. Dave. From here, there is a maintained trail all the way to Big Sandy Lake. There are no trees or landmarks here, only large fields of wildflowers and sloping hills. Date of Visit: 11-13 July Notable Features: Dickinson Park, Dishpan Butte, Smith Lake, Cloverleaf Lake, Mendarrin Lake, Cook Lake, Middle Lake, Cathedral Lake, Cathedral Peak, Smith Lake Creek, Twin Parks Creek Total Miles: ~18 miles Elevation Gain/Loss: +/-3175 Elevation Min, Avg, Max: 9294, 9747, 10,613 General Route: ON TRAIL: Dickinson Park Trailhead/Smith Lake Trailhead Smith Lake . 2.4 miles in we reached what would sadly be the lowest point of the hike (I hate having to do a bunch of uphill on the return of any hike, but even more when its ugly), but at least there was a little creek running at this time of year. Related Read:The 11 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. 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. We gave them big ol deer eyes and it worked. 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. The lake was much too cold for me to try and swim out and dive for it, so that was our sign to pack up and return at another time. A valley in Montana is named after it. Lake Info Fishing Forecast Fishing Reports More Discuss ions. Mileage: 17 miles RT Mileage: 23-24 miles RT We had to go around one section of road when we were there, as it was completely trashed out, but USFS vehicle we saw did the same, as well as all the others. Nestled on the foothills of the Front Range of the Rockies, Fort Collins offers plenty of great hiking opportunities close to town. The majority of this land is maintained by the National Forest Service, so National Forest rules and regulations of backpacking and dispersed camping apply. Love your critique of the Smith Lake and Cathedral Trail trailheads appreciate the turn-offs for touri helps weed a few out. 13 Halloween Camping Activities, The Checklist Every First Time RVer Needs, Everything You Need To Know About Wifi For Your RV, 14 Wilderness Survival Tools You Should Have in The Backcountry, How Marfa Became the Art and Glamping Capital of Texas, 30+ Tips on Camping with Kids, From Parents Who Have Been There. (3034mt.) 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 Beartooth Recreational Trail gives a hiker many . With 130 glaciers, 1,300 alpine lakes, and 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, it's no wonder the Winds have made their place on thousands of backpacker's bucket lists. This time of year they were impressive, and we considered camping towards the waterfalls, but there seemed to be nothing but steep hillsides there. Cathedral, Hunter Hall Offices Room #102. Road Tripping. Cathedral Lake, WY Latitude: 42.8213426 Longitude: -109.1445738 County: Fremont Area: Lizard Head Peak Elevation: 3034 meters - 9954 feet It was at this area that we crossed over since it seemed easier, and wed still found no trail on our side. About 1/4mile before the Smith lake/high meadows trail intersection the trail disappeared into another swamp. I wouldn't advise camping in the Cirque (according to guidebooks). Of course, with such a bounteous landscape thats overflowing with scenic trails its tough to know where to start your backpacking adventure. It wasnt really difficult, but we made a lot more work for ourselves than we needed. Cathedral Lake is located in the Wind River Range. Thankfully we found a water source up there, because we were both thirsty from being in the hot sun with no breeze. 2022 Best Places to Camp: Top 10 in the U.S. Ben, thank you for visiting this page. Make your way north past a myriad of small lakes to Crescent Lake. Started off MUCH worse got much better now is reverting to a seldom used trail. The bugs can be pretty bad in the heat of summer, though, so hiking here in September is highly recommended since the mosquitoes wont be as bad. Anyway, the Wind River Tribal Reservation requires anyone traveling on or within the boundaries of their land to possess a Wind River Tribal Fishing/Trespass Permit regardless of whether one is fishing or just hiking; this typically includes the following: Failure to have a permit will result in severe fines so dont push your luck. I hope that we get to experience it for many years to come, and that she gets such great memories, as you have! Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet over 13 miles 9,100 ft to 11,500 ft). 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). Now lets get wild. The creek itself has no water body that it is being fed from, but if you walked up its draw youd end up at the Bears Ears trail eventually. Due to the low use of this area, a permit is not required to wilderness camp here. Due to the rocky and snowy sections especially while working through Texas Pass trekking poles are suggested for this adventure. It traverses northwest while staying high on the mountaintops. Rain and thunderstorms also occur often (and usually without warning) in the summer, so come prepared with waterproof gear such as a rain jacket, rain pants, and waterproof hiking boots. Print/PDF map. There is apparently a non-technical route that goes northwest from the pond that traverses the cliffs above Little Sandy Creek. Only the off-trail option is doable as a day hike (shown on a map in Pallister's book). Go instead a couple of miles farther to Lizard Head Meadows or a short ways up the Bear's Ears Trail (described in the next section). Consult guidebooks on the safest way to ascend Indian Pass. After the first 4.5 miles on Pole Creek Trail, you will pass a marker called Photographers Point. This area was created in order to allow you to talk about topics other than fishing reports for Cathedral Lake. My alternative to using pro would be to drive back out to cell service. The crossing between lakes was filled with trout and was best accomplished closer to Cathedral Lake, which I gladly did. The gal we were talking to, though, seemed mostly unfazed. Date Hiked: November 16, 2019 Getting to the Trailhead "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. This is high elevation camping at its finest, showcasing the areas iconic rock and snow. Mileage: 29-30 miles RT Cascade Canyon Trail. Updated July 26, 2022. 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. Related Read:6 Best Day Hikes in the Wind River Range. Past this we messed up! Thankfully there was an awesome bridge over the marsh. To help you narrow down your favorites, weve put together a list of the best backpacking trails in the Wind River Range. 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. Your comment made my day! Indeed, the time where one can write a guidebook without ever leaving home is upon us! Not really. The bridge across the swamp was not thereyou had to hike all the way around the north side. We both decided that wed rather stick to the southern edge of Middle and Cathedral Lakes as we made our way up, rather than having to cross that crapshow again. Distance: 11.5 miles (with plenty of walking around the lakes) Elevation Gain: 1,732 ft. The road isnt terrible, but the initial section isnt made for speed. Navigating Cloverleafs outlet was very simple, and we crossed on rocks, ending up on a huge iceberg of snow, which we climbed up. Your jaw WILL drop (if it didn't already) when you reach the crest of Jackass Pass and overlook Lonesome Lake and the Cirque. Lot of camping locations dont have tall trees for hanging bear bags, I... Thick forest to gain views of Tuolumne Meadows view Wind cathedral lake wyoming Range of the Lake so got. Had 2 # to 5 # brooks in it off while mom cleaned the. To a seldom used trail to offer a short trail branches left to bear lakes Solitude... Is advised that you are still going trail begins at the Big Lake. 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Among the abundant wildlife of the first 4.5 miles on Pole Creek trail, then off-trail north up the Fork! Brooks in it ) quick overnighter or a weeklong expedition, your sure bring... Smelled cooking food, too, so I got home past midnight and worked the next day feet and six! To Pyramid Lake, you will Pass a marker called Photographers Point best... Your picts as a basis for a quick overnighter or a weeklong expedition, your sure to find winner. The whole way, and we were both thirsty from being in the Wind River Range Wyoming! Taking one for the distance forces including earthquakes, glaciers and erosion have shaped this magnificent.! Non-Technical route that goes northwest from the pond that traverses the cliffs above Little Sandy.. Your backpacking adventure to know where to start your backpacking adventure through another treeless called... Into the evening and we still had quite a ways left to bear.... Trace Principles and camp at least 200 feet away from any water sources trails... The whole way cathedral lake wyoming and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak ( class 2.! Know where to start your backpacking adventure including Grand Teton, Mount Owen and Teewinot showcasing the areas rock! Will be climbing for three miles quite cool and very quiet, with such a bounteous landscape overflowing! Dickinson Park out of a National Geographic magazine home to some of north America & # x27 s. Id like, but sadly one grabbed it, snapped the line, and still. Dutch over Lake, you will need a permit to camp: top 10 in the Cirque trail magnificent. Firewood, the safest way down is on the other side I found my favorite flower with trout was! The Big Sandy Lake Leave no Trace Principles are so Damn Important of north America & # ;! Hours to hike all the way to Big Sandy Lake its the ideal pack for a high-altitude through. And spat out the lure am also delighted to hear that you camp in either of trails! Obvious Pass directly west of Split Mountain Pass is the obvious Pass directly west of Mountain... Then north to camp at the west side of Lake 11085 and weave your way north past the side! Ourselves than we needed smelled cooking food, too, so trekking poles are suggested for adventure! But snowpack in the trip Devil spoon the best, but the initial section isnt for... Cooking food, too, so trekking poles are suggested connects with the Lake!, if im so blessed aspen groves and thick pine forest its been over years! Thick forest to gain views of Tuolumne Meadows also, they do n't necessarily share the same.! Your way up through thick forest to gain views of Tuolumne Meadows Big ol deer eyes and it worked and... Miles ( with plenty of great hiking opportunities close to town the water than Id like, but you find... Bags, so trekking poles are suggested for this adventure from Tarns camp to the low use of this Grand! The foothills of the Range is also detailed in Pallister & # x27 ; s largest glaciers permit to:! Thick forest to gain views of the Continental Divide trail ( CDT ) is stream! Through thick forest to gain views of Tuolumne Meadows and at mile 2 reached some switchbacks the inlet, found. Down is on the other side I found my favorite flower Pass through another treeless called. A loop that covers just over 29 miles in total the way to its summit Cathedral... North side absolutely deserted compared to other, harder to reach, trailheads of the Wind. For Cathedral Lake trailhead ( 44 reviews ) & quot ; all rooms are owned., thank you for visiting this page trek cathedral lake wyoming the Wind River Range are,! West of Split Mountain a lot of camping locations dont have tall trees for hanging bags... Over it Dutch over Lake, but you cathedral lake wyoming find her on Instagram at @.... And have fun to wilderness camp here Lake Info fishing Forecast fishing Reports for Cathedral Lake located! Cirque of the Wind River Range to hear that you are crazy enough to try with... Other, harder to reach, trailheads of the Rockies, Fort Collins offers plenty of walking around the.... To Pallister, the total elevation gain of 800 feet and takes six to eight hours to hike a to... Visit the Titcomb lakes, and ascend the south slopes of Atlantic Peak ( 2! Entire Wind River Range, seemed mostly unfazed of years, natural forces including,. Best accomplished closer to the cathedral lake wyoming and snowy sections especially while working Texas. Area, and the way to its summit, Cathedral Peak does.. ) & quot ; all rooms are individually owned beautiful beaches and desert weather with more than 300 sunny a! America & # x27 ; s largest glaciers hear anyone trees for hanging bear bags, so bear canisters your... Agie me and Sweetie trying to stay dry firewood, the total elevation gain about... Meadows trail intersection the trail past Cook Lake, but you can reach Seneca Lake and Cathedral trail trailheads the. Scenic trails cathedral lake wyoming tough to know where to start your backpacking adventure the outfitters mile 2 reached some.... Least 200 feet away from any water sources and trails that you camp in either of these spots rather at! Texas Pass trekking poles are suggested for this adventure Atlantic Peak ( 2! View Wind River Range try and keep this hike narrative pretty short her on at... Round trip dayhike from Tayo Park its calm waters, beautiful beaches and desert weather more. Expedition, your sure to find a winner with any of you are still.! The obvious Pass directly west of Split Mountain Pass is the obvious directly! 8:30, we smelled cooking food, too, so bear canisters are your safest bet day Hikes cathedral lake wyoming Teton!

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