Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Going Wild In Wind River WY

By Enid Hinton


No need to go to Alaska to find the Wild. Wind River WY has all the majestic mountains, raging rivers, gorges, scenic overlooks, wildlife, and pristine wilderness anyone could explore in a lifetime. Here you can be so alone it's scary, eat the fish you catch, and experience danger if that's where you get your thrills.

This mountain range, river system, and nature preserve is true wilderness. There are over 600 miles of trails through it, but they may not be well marked or maintained. There are no telephones at the trailheads, and cellphone reception is not all that great. People who venture here need to be prepared to be self-reliant - unusual in these modern days.

This area has the highest peaks in Wyoming, and they are truly spectacular. Some are snow-covered year round. In fact, even during the short 'summer' from July to September, it may snow and fall below freezing at night. People need to be ready for temperature extremes, violent thunderstorms, and other challenges of the wilderness.

People come for the photo ops from the heights. Travel photos will be something to treasure, to hang on the walls back home. Visitors search out wildlife, climb the rocky walls of gorges and peaks, and hike the trails that range from easy to hazardous. It's easy to find a high place from which endless miles of rugged terrain are visible.

Of course, there is civilization in the towns that have taken root in the valleys. There is nightlife at the casinos and even luxury at some of the lodges. Museums and park visitor centers tell of the history of this western region, which somehow seems closer than it does in other places. Shops are full of necessities and souvenirs. However, the wilderness is never very far away.

Wyoming has things you don't find everywhere, like glaciers. Vacation packages are designed to help families find the perfect activities for every age and skill level, and to help intrepid backpackers plan their stay. See things the dinosaurs saw and find out what the mountain men knew.

In fact, this wilderness area is so rich in beauty and in natural resources that its population is growing. There's enough room for all, however; no need to worry that the wildlife will get pushed out. Much of this region is protected in state and federal parks or in the Indian reservation. And, of course, no one will ever tame the mountains.

Visit Wind River Country online first to find out all there is to see and do. There is a lot of information for those who want to tour around the edges - the very dramatic edges - and for those who might want to hike into the heart of the mountains, cross the Continental Divide, or climb a slope on Gannett Peak, the highest of all. Visit the Indian Reservation, drive the scenic highways, hike a mile or a hundred miles. It's all waiting in Wyoming's heartland.




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