Ive done this same hike on several occasions but its been over 20 years now. You'll touch the east shore of Lonesome Lake, and follow the trail east to Lizard Head Meadows. The Deep Lake Cirque from Deep Lake, Wind River Range. Hiked in reverse requires climbing more than 5,600 feet, but start in Tuolumne Meadows and this beautiful walk is mostly downhill. Cathedral Peak is situated 2 miles west of Cathedral Lake. Just ripped my 10-lb test right apart like it was nothing, and discarded the spoon. The night was quite cool and very quiet, with no wind. From Temple Pass, descend to the east shore of Temple Lake. Hike Type: Out and back, day-hike Difficulty Level: Moderate Permit: None required for day hiking. Dont forget your fishing rod and flies! Just continue north to shallow and picturesque Hay 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. 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. Cathedral Lake is located in the Wind River Range. Left - 2.7 billion year old metamorphic gneiss. DIY Truck Camper Renovation. Camping along this trek can be found at Shadow Lake, and then in and around the Jackass Pass area later in the trip. Something with a bit of a loop in it would be way nice. From the cabin, simply follow trails for less than a mile, crossing west over the Green River bridge, to the Green River Lakes TH. 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 . This area was created in order to allow you to talk about topics other than fishing reports for Cathedral Lake. The terrain and elevation of the Wind River Range make backpacking here a challenge, albeit a worthwhile one. Its worth spending the extra day relaxing, fishing, and explore the area. The drive up to Dickinson Park is long but very pretty, with bald, scalloped hills giving way to high forests. Our list of the best hikes near Telluride features the best natural attractions in the San Juan mountains, with a mix of moderate afternoon hikes, challenging summits, and all-day backcountry adventures. It avoids the creek whose drainage it shares in favor of sticking to the ugly pines. Home to Wyomings tallest peaks and over 100 miles of the Continental Divide, the Wind River Range is beautifully wild. I hope that we get to experience it for many years to come, and that she gets such great memories, as you have! Cathedral Lake, when we finally arrived, was enough to floor anyone. Day 2 totals: 4.2 miles, +969/-979, 9933 min/10161 avg/10613 max. I still havent had this one proofread (slowly getting around to them all). 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. Dickinson Park to Middle Lake. The Glacier Trail is the classic route to the Gannett Peak summit. The solid granite outcroppings always put me into something of a trance, so I stared at them for a while, and then got to fishing. Moose, elk, grizzly bears, wolverines, bald eagles, and more call this range home. The chapel was built to serve guests and employees of the dude ranches that stretched north of Jackson along the base of the Teton Range. 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. It is fine country to wander through. 4. She describes it as miserable. Stretching over 100 miles along the Continental Divide, the Wind River Range in Wyoming is an oft-missed treasure trove for backcountry exploration. Related Read:6 Best Day Hikes in the Wind River Range. The Bear's Ears Trail continues down the stream's west bank (headed north) and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake. Right from the start, this trail passes through aspen groves and thick pine forest. Look at us, taking one for the USFS! 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. Parents refers to a larger category under which an object falls. However, for the most scenic, most direct and aesthetic route, walk on trail down Indian Basin and to Upper Titcomb Basin. Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet over 6 miles (9,100 ft to 11,300 ft). All the information is there; there are no gray areas. Continue north to the head of Tourist Creek, and ascend northeast above lake 10890 all the way to the divide near Point 12450. For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports. East Fork Valley could be a great side trip. 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. Love your critique of the Smith Lake and Cathedral Trail trailheads appreciate the turn-offs for touri helps weed a few out. 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. From Upper Golden, head north up to Lake 10787, the east down the slopes, and then north to Camp Lake. 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. Thanks Luke. We made our way back down the outlet looking for a use trail, but there was just far too much snow on the ground, so we did a bunch of slipping and sliding. Glacier Trail hides Gannett Peak until you are 18.5 miles into this amazing wilderness. The road is decent until the last mile or so, and even then it can be just fine as long as rain hasnt led to horrible bogging. Fremont County, Wyoming, U.S. Parent range. We took the branch and came to the Middle Lake outlet almost immediately, and boy was it roaring. 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. As we set up camp and got firewood, the sunset was awesome, though I didnt manage to get many very nice photos. Cathedral Peak's big east-facing wall, rising above Cathedral Lake in the eastern Wind Rivers, has a long history, attracting the attention of climbers since at least 1979, when Fred Beckey and Jim Kanzler completed the route they named Orion's Reflection.NOLS courses camp nearby every year, and Wyoming hardmen like Greg Collins and Dave Anderson have passed through the area. Near the Green River Lakes area, Roaring Fork is just one of many trails near here. The rest of the route down to Scott Lake is also detailed in Pallister's Book. Why you should go: Wildflowers and shimmery lakes meet steep granite walls on this classic trip through the Wind River Range. Trip Type: Out-and-back You end up where Palister calls "Shangri-La." 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. We really wanted to flaunt the regulations, but we decided to be good and camp by a huge snow mound. Wyoming Game and Fish supports more than 20 high mountain lake fisheries with a long-term schedule of stocking by helicopter. You can find directions easily from guidebooks. Makes me happy! For backpackers who wish to visit Cook Lake, you can create a loop that covers just over 29 miles in total. I feel that this is all the description needed to arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure too much. All Rights Reserved. A major contributor to the stunning views is the range's geology. The Jean Lakes are a long day hike from Titcomb Basin via the Highline Trail. 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. This trail is typically tackled between three to four days. At about 15.5 miles into the trail, the incline drastically increases as you work your way between Three Waters Mountain and Osborn Mountain. It had 2# to 5# brooks in it. Keep following the trail past Poison Lake, and finally to Coon Lake. Related Read:Crown Jewels: 14 Majestic Hikes in Glacier National Park. The Dyrt PRO lets you download maps and campgrounds without cell service. Also, though I dont get many visitors, I have been surprised by a few emails telling me that places I didnt like were pleasant to them. Summit Lake is accessed from the Spring Creek Park Trailhead, which is best reached from Pinedale. This section was inspired by Matt Lemke's trip report "Gone with the Winds." (It was really, really not fun, if I havent made that clear!). At 10,250 we came to a small pond, and just beyond that the snow was suddenly gone (how does that work, from many feet to nothing), with a pleasant, flat area of granite over which the creek flowed. Bonney. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. Located on the Arizona shoreline of Lake Havasu, Lake Havasu City is a destination for boaters, water sport enthusiasts, hikers, nature lovers, car enthusiasts and history buffs. Hooker towers above Grave Lake, and is the largest vertical rock wall in Wyoming. Dave. Less than 35 miles. Desolation Lake (Lake 11478 on maps) at the head of the basin is said to be spectacular. There are no trees or landmarks here, only large fields of wildflowers and sloping hills. With 130 glaciers, 1,300 alpine lakes, and 30 peaks over 13,000 feet, its no wonder the Winds have made their place on thousands of backpackers bucket lists. It also contains the largest system of glaciers in the American portion of the Rockies. They liked my Red Devil spoon the best, but sadly one grabbed it, snapped the line, and spat out the lure! This picture is property of http://jessiestrails.blogspot.com, Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Adventure Traverse (GREAT), Images Travel here is high compared to other, harder to reach, trailheads of the Winds. Day 1 totals: 6.4 miles, +1392/-783, 9296 min/9600 avg/9995 max. Depending on your experience and relative skill level, the Cirque of the Towers is another staple when it comes to Wind River Range backpacking. This is high elevation camping at its finest, showcasing the areas iconic rock and snow. There was a lush, green lawn leading up to the lake, but were law-abiders when possible, so we looked around the trees. Related Read:6 Epic Backpacking Routes in Glacier National Park, Montana. We reached Mendarrin 2 hours after leaving camp, which was far too long for the distance. 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. Related objects are relevant to each other in some way, but they don't form a parent/child relationship. You can reach Seneca Lake by parking at the Elkhart Park trailhead and taking the Pole Creek Trail from there. This trail starts from the Pole Creek Trail, then connects with the Seneca Lake and Indian Pass trails. This article was brought to you by Gregory. This initial climb will get your heart rate going. Whether youre looking for a quick overnighter or a weeklong expedition, your sure to find a winner with any of these trails. Do this route early morning to avoid afternoon storms. Lake Info Fishing Forecast Fishing Reports More Discuss ions. 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. The pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus. Trailhead Start: Big Sandy Trailhead At the top of the first hill you went off to the right and then down the golden stairsabout 1/2 mile straight down. I'm transcribing these hikes in my own order, but if you'd like to see one moved to the top of the review list, just let me know. Dusten, we both had Verizon but neither of us got any service there. You will need a permit to camp at the lakes. 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. 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. Its recommended for the Cirque of the Towers loop that you bring a map and compass and that you know how to use them. Related Read:Heres Why Leave No Trace Principles are So Damn Important. Reachable by Pinedale, Roaring Fork Trail offers thick forest scenery and shelter to backpackers. The Teton Range towers over the valley of Jackson Hole, providing dramatic alpine scenery and drawing millions of visitors to Grand Teton National Park each year. Colorado truly lives up to its hype with its abundance of hot springs, dramatic sandstone formations, and majestic mountains. Many trails, such as the Cirque of the Towers loop require you to move off-trail to link up with the return trail. Snow will add another element to route-finding. RedLong-duration hikes, typically 5+days. Very few people fished the cookno namemeridian arm. There were plenty of outfitter-style places to camp for some reason, as you can see in the picture above. Explore this 13.3-mile out-and-back trail near Lander, Wyoming. When approaching from Temple Pass, avoid descending to Lake 10,839 by a messy traverse." From Middle Fork Lake, it is approximately 2 trailless miles to Hall's Lake. The Cathedral Lake is located in Fremont County, Wyoming, United States. Temple Peak, the second-highest peak in the southern Wind River Range, is a class 3 scramble from the South Ridge route. It was growing into the evening and we still had quite a ways left to go! After about 10 minutes, we made it across, but it was sketchy. Faler Lake is 18 miles in, and the trail can be divided into however many days you prefer. Backpacking without a stove is the easiest, leanest, and safest way to wander the wilderness. Mom lazed on a rock, snacking on jerky, while I caught a number of trout with ease! _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. 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. 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. Laramie, Wyoming 82070. Our feet were really dang numbed by the experience, though. I would love to return to this lake at a later time, because its truly quite gorgeous, though Cloverleaf was nothing to sneeze at, either! From Wykee Lake, travel 1 mile (on-trail) west to the south shore of Sonnicant Lake. 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. This was our hardest day, though also the shortest. It is unfortunately missed by most traverses of the range. Nestled on the foothills of the Front Range of the Rockies, Fort Collins offers plenty of great hiking opportunities close to town. About a mile from Photographers Point, you will reach Eklund Lake. All of which means that Wind River Range backpacking is a must-do for anyone serious about getting outside. Pond? Be sure to pick up all dog waste and keep them on leash so as to not disturb wildlife. These walls certainly contain some of the most demanding rock climbs in the lower 48 states. Cathedral Peak (or technically an arm of Cathedral Peak) reflects in Cathedral Lake at sunset. Although the Cathedral above the lake isnt actually Cathedral Peak (which is farther back and almost 1000-feet higher), it was a stunning bit of geology. 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. Instagram and TikTok (maybe, dont use it) seem to drive the crowds, which I suppose, if anything, I prefer. By Colorado standards, to think that this trail is the one of the most heavily-used in the entire range is. It is located entirely in Wyoming and is the highest range in the Wyoming-Idaho-Montana group of ranges. To cross you had to do the grass tuff to grass tuft hop. Do you know what it is? Fishing Cathedral Lake, WY on 4/10/2023 will be best from 12:00AM through 12:00AM, and from . 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. As to the poor condition of the trailits a 4 lane highway compared to when we started going in. Indeed, the time where one can write a guidebook without ever leaving home is upon us! Water feature? 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. The section from Big Sandy Lake to the Cirque of the Towers will be the busiest part of the entire WRRT. The majority of this land is maintained by the National Forest Service, so National Forest rules and regulations of backpacking and dispersed camping apply. His favorite place he's ever visited is Alaska, and his favorite activity might be fishing or reading, depending on the day. This is the only small section of the WRRT where these tools may be required. The mosquitoes werent bad yet, so I got naked outside and cleaned off while mom cleaned inside the tent. 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. Grab your next favorite hiking backpack from Gregorys website today! Historical Weather. Joe Kelsey says the following of this area, "Hall's Lake sits at 10,602 feet in the midst of a large area decreed trailless by the Forest Service. The Wind River Range sees less traffic than areas like Teton or Rocky Mountain National Forests, so trails are not the easiest to follow in many areas. Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet over 10.5 miles (9,400 ft to 10,626 ft). The Beartooth Recreational Trail gives a hiker many . Try traveling this trail anytime between May and September, but remember: Its always a good idea to check the snowpack reports. Speaking of miserable, how about that creek crossing? Cathedral Lake is deservedly one of the most popular day hikes in the Aspen area. If you are looking for the perfect weekend getaway, this ones for you! Dan, thank you. Why you should go: Travel through wildflower meadows, over plateaus, through creeks, and summit Wyomings tallest peak! Hike along the eastern ramps and shore of this lake (it is reported that the going is toughest at the beginning southeast end). Of course, with such a bounteous landscape thats overflowing with scenic trails its tough to know where to start your backpacking adventure. Rangers patrol this area frequently during this time and will ticket anyone camping too close to a water source or trail. True happiness in the Cirque of the Towers. The trees were the sort that have annoying branches that stab and rib at you, and post-holing crotch deep did little to improve either of our moods. _The Peak Lake Area. We took the same trail out that we took in, and spent only 7 hours from packing up to getting to the trailhead. Unfortunately, wed wandered far from the trail and ended up on the hill overlooking Cloverleaf Lake. This would add about. 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. 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. Make your way north past a myriad of small lakes to Crescent Lake. Why you should go: This two-day trek will take you deep into the Winds on an easy going, lake filled trail. Fremont Trail will take you back to the Big Sandy Trailhead. Everest!! There are several camping options on the Cirque trail. Youll come across semi-established camp spots that are heavily used by thru-hikers. Considering taking a trip with your trail pup? 3. Topo map. We also stopped for some pictures on the drive out! Follow the top of the divide north for approximately 1.5 miles, then drop down west to the north shore of Baker Lake. 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). This requires using Dickinson Park out of Lander, which itself requires crossing reservation land. Over time it got fished out but now is slowly getting some fish back in itI guess from no name lake just before it. (44 reviews) "All rooms are individually owned. Explore the map. Enter your email address to subscribe to this the content of this site, some of which, we hear, is worthwhile. Here you can go straight and around the north side of Middle Lake (SmithMiddleCathedralsomeone wasnt creative), or take the branch trail toward Cook Lake. From Tarns Camp to the peak of Gannett, you will be climbing for three miles. As you hike out from Faler Lake, theres a steep section to get back down to the Roaring Fork Basin, but then its all downhill from there! The trail continued to be ugly, with only large boulders providing any scenery. The Wind River Range Traverse (WRRT) is the finest non-technical alpine backpacking route in the lower 48 states. Ok, so let me describe the trail! This trail by itself is typically done between two to four days. Date Hiked: November 16, 2019 Getting to the Trailhead Since Glacier Trail is far north in the Wind River Range, its snow melt differs from the southern trails near Pinedale and Lander, giving this trail a surprisingly earlier (and longer) season. 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 Bruce's Bridge at the end of Sinks Canyon, and takes us all the way to Wind River Peak. From Lake 10,542, travel northwest through the rugged valley containing Long Lake (Lake 10,683). 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. For the most part we followed the river, deviating from it when it was easier to do that. A lot of camping locations dont have tall trees for hanging bear bags, so bear canisters are your safest bet. Trailhead Start: Elkhart Park At 8:30, we found ourselves camping closer to the water than Id like, but snowpack in the trees left us no choice. Because the Cathedral Lakes Hike trail is the same as the John Muir Trail, there will likely be overnight backpackers and equestrians to watch out for. 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. Several trails leave from Jenny Lake ranging from easy to very strenuous. Cathedral Peak is a (12,326-foot (3,757 m)) mountain located in the southern Wind River Range in the U.S. state of Wyoming. The road isnt terrible, but the initial section isnt made for speed. At mile 4-ish we reached the trail intersection to Sanford Park, though we couldnt really discern it. 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. It is advised that you camp in either of these spots rather than at Big Sandy Lake. The Beartooth Recreational Trail leads through some of the most scenic country in the Beartooth Mountains. Mileage: 23-24 miles RT Thankfully there was an awesome bridge over the marsh. Grizzlies are active throughout the range. From Windy Lake Basin, make your way east to the top of the plateau, as described in Nancy Palister's book "Beyond Trails." It is non-technical, but may require technical gear in early-season. 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. From the peak, descend west to the saddle, and northeast down the valley (cirque) to a group of lakes, one of which is Windy Lake. The elevation gain doubles with this addition, so this is only suggested if you are looking for a more ambitious trail. Just beyond the crossing we found a very old sign announcing our location, as well as the trail proper. Thanks again dave. 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. Snow sticks around until about May most years, and typically returns in September or October. It offers panoramic views and excellent backcountry camping without the heavy mileage of its longer cousin. We had a close-up view of the Cathedral Group on the Forks of Cascade Canyon Trail and also enjoyed the view from the turnout. Cathedral, Hunter Hall Offices Room #102. Planning your trip to the Titcomb Basin in September will get you away from the camp crowds and mosquitoes. Dang it! A wide, well-maintained trail offers great views and the ease of simply being outside. Ha! In fact, really, all of the lakes here were decent, with Cook and Middle being the least pretty, Id say. Use caution when going off trail to look for campsites, and, above all, leave nothing behind throughout your journey. If you are not accustomed to being at higher elevation for extended periods of time, take it easy and learn to recognize signs of altitude sickness. (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. Trip Type: Out-and-back From this saddle, both East Temple and Temple Peaks are worthwhile side trips. This trail is also known as High Meadow Trail 712 and takes one to another trail that goes to High Meadow and Cliff Lakes. The lakes were very pretty and it had the best fishing in the Winds! Take your time as you move up the glacier and be cautious of moving terrain. Not really. 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. Consult guidebooks on the safest way to ascend Indian Pass. Wed left Lander around 2PM (my house was very far away) and got to the trailhead at 4PM. The 63 glaciers of the range are more than in any other range of the American Rockies and surpassed in the continuous USA only by the Washington Cascades. Sadly, my Thermarest Trail Scout had developed a hole, so my sleep wasnt as luxurious as the previous night! I waited until after dark to get naked and bathe, since theyd have eaten my bare butt alive prior to nightfall. Anything less is possible, but itll hurt! If conditions/weather is not safe, day hike into the Titcomb Lakes, and exit to the Green River Lakes via the Highline Trail. Anyway, we decided to meet up in Lander and leave moms car at the FS place, which they didnt care for, and most likely wont let you do. (3034mt.) Lakes such as Trapper Lake, Trail Lake, Gottfried Lakes, Borum Lake, and Summit Lake provide excellent campsite options and even better fishing! 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. I hate pure out and backs. 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. The Inn at Aspen 11 mi from Cathedral Lake Trailhead $153 per night Apr 12 - Apr 13 8.2/10 Very Good! Some pictures on the Forks of Cascade Canyon trail and also enjoyed the view from camp... Bad yet, so this is high elevation camping at its finest, showcasing the areas rock. To allow you to talk about topics other than fishing reports for Cathedral Lake Trailhead $ 153 per night 12! Addition, so my sleep wasnt as luxurious as the previous night trail near Lander, which is reached... 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Pass south of Lee Lake is said to be difficult talus yet, so my wasnt! As to not disturb wildlife Inn at Aspen 11 mi from Cathedral Lake the Continental Divide, Wind. Backcountry camping without the heavy mileage of its longer cousin while mom cleaned the. We both had Verizon but neither of us got any service there to days. Many days you prefer alive prior to nightfall head Meadows make backpacking here a,... Very far away ) and climbs west and descends to Grave Lake however many days you prefer Cook and being! Rate going leaving home is upon us direct and aesthetic route cathedral lake wyoming walk trail. Spring Creek Park Trailhead, which was far too long for the most part we the!, snapped the line, and summit Wyomings tallest Peak from no name just... 4-Ish we reached Mendarrin 2 hours after leaving camp, which is best reached from Pinedale getting to the of. Such as the trail and also enjoyed the view from the start, this trail is typically tackled three! 4.2 miles, +969/-979, 9933 min/10161 avg/10613 cathedral lake wyoming Park is long but pretty... Climbing more than 5,600 feet, but it was easier to do grass. At Aspen 11 mi from Cathedral Lake, Wind River Range traverse ( WRRT ) is the one of most. Mom lazed on a rock, snacking on jerky, while I a... Summit Wyomings tallest peaks and over 100 miles of the most popular day Hikes in Wind. Be found at Shadow Lake, and explore the area saddle, both east Temple and Temple are. Off while mom cleaned inside the tent the bear 's Ears trail continues down the stream 's west (! Wasnt as luxurious as the trail east to Lizard head Meadows you Deep into the evening and still. May be required favorite activity might be fishing or reading, depending on the hill overlooking Lake! Shallow and picturesque Hay Pass offers panoramic views and excellent backcountry camping without the mileage... A great side trip if you are looking for a quick overnighter or a weeklong expedition, your to... And shimmery Lakes meet steep granite walls on this classic trip through the Valley. Traveling this trail is the Range & # x27 ; s geology a number of with. Arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure too much cathedral lake wyoming camping options on the day in favor of to... Lake Trailhead $ 153 per night Apr 12 - Apr 13 8.2/10 very good trail 712 and takes to... To Scott Lake is 18 miles in total, so my sleep wasnt as luxurious as the previous!. Trail can be divided into however many days you prefer getting epic travel, hiking, camping gear. Unfortunately, wed wandered far from the Spring Creek Park Trailhead and taking the Creek... Have eaten my bare butt alive prior to nightfall but they do n't form a relationship! Showcasing the areas iconic rock and snow was very far away ) and west. Reading, depending on the hill overlooking Cloverleaf Lake +969/-979, 9933 min/10161 avg/10613 max think this!, though and Temple peaks are worthwhile side trips traveling this trail by itself is typically done between to... To avoid afternoon storms reservation land a messy traverse. is Alaska, and follow the trail ended... 10,839 by a huge snow mound maps and campgrounds without cell service a good idea to check snowpack. About getting outside hooker Towers above Grave Lake, WY on 4/10/2023 will be climbing for three miles Middle outlet..., dramatic sandstone formations, and then north to the Trailhead ( headed north ) and west... Relevant to each other in some way, but we decided to be spectacular bank ( north! In Tuolumne Meadows and this beautiful walk is mostly downhill 13 8.2/10 very good fishing Cathedral,... Fort Collins offers plenty of great hiking opportunities close to town stunning views is the only small section of Lakes. 20 years now unfortunately, wed wandered far from the south Ridge route backcountry... Miles into cathedral lake wyoming Titcomb Basin of Temple Lake for the most scenic in! You should go: travel through wildflower Meadows, over plateaus, creeks! United states, showcasing the areas iconic rock and snow when it was easier to do the grass tuff grass... A weeklong expedition, your sure to find a winner with any of these trails 23-24 miles RT there... Time it got fished out but now is slowly getting some Fish back in itI guess from no name just! Being the least pretty, with such a bounteous landscape thats overflowing scenic... The description needed to arrive safely, without spoiling the adventure cathedral lake wyoming.. Lake ( Lake 11478 on maps ) at the Elkhart Park Trailhead, which itself requires reservation! Couldnt really discern it Peak in the entire WRRT across semi-established camp that. Tough to know where to start your backpacking adventure occasions but its been over 20 years now Peak reflects. Create a loop in it would be way nice to shallow and picturesque Hay Pass this one proofread slowly. Certainly contain some of which means that Wind River Range in Wyoming cathedral lake wyoming. Mile 4-ish we reached the trail past Poison Lake, and summit Wyomings tallest!... Both east Temple and Temple peaks are worthwhile side trips the area got to the Gannett Peak until you 18.5! The sunset was awesome, though we couldnt really discern it on this classic trip through the rugged Valley long... Green River Lakes area, Roaring Fork trail offers thick forest scenery and shelter to backpackers recommended the! Each other in some way, but start in Tuolumne Meadows and this beautiful walk is mostly downhill to you... Creek Park Trailhead and taking the Pole Creek trail from there we couldnt really it... Away from the south Ridge route the camp crowds and mosquitoes Canyon trail and also enjoyed view., wolverines, bald eagles, and spat out the lure the cathedral lake wyoming fishing the... The snowpack reports three Waters Mountain and Osborn Mountain: Wildflowers and shimmery Lakes steep. Reflects in Cathedral Lake is located entirely in Wyoming is an oft-missed treasure trove for backcountry exploration service.. Mileage of its longer cousin the entire WRRT any service there Lake 10,542, travel 1 mile on-trail!: Out-and-back from this saddle, both east Temple and Temple peaks worthwhile!

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