Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Out To The 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 huge area of mountain ranges, river valleys, and wildlife preserves has over 600 miles of trails through it. However, they are not always well-marked or maintained; in fact, they often look like the elk and deer made them. Hikers need to be self-sufficient in a way unusual in this modern age. They can't count on finding a telephone at the trail head or getting cellphone service. There are no convenience stores at regular intervals

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.

There is civilization in the valleys, of course. Towns offer rest and relaxation, shopping for necessities and souvenirs, and great food served with true western hospitality. Casinos are always open for vibrant nightlife. Museums and visitors' centers showcase the not-so-distant past. Some lodges even offer five-star luxury. Still, there may be a glacier within walking distance; the wilderness is always close.

There are a lot of glaciers, thousands of lakes, and seemingly endless towering mountain peaks. Vacation packages offer places to go, things to see, and outdoor adventures for every age and skill level. Families can get the flavor of the West, while adventurers can retrace the paths of the mountain men.

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.

Go online to learn more about this compelling region of the American West. People who want to penetrate the wilderness need to know how to prepare, while those who mainly want to sight-see by car can plan their route to include as much as possible. Cross the Continental Divide, tour the Indian Reservation, visit abandoned ghost towns and gold mines. There are no limits to the variety you can include in your itinerary in Wyoming.




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